Sudan | IHL in Action

Sudan, Release of Detainees by Non-State Armed Groups

In the context of different internal conflicts in Sudan, both the Justice and Equality Movement (JEM) and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N) have released detainees in response to appeals from religious leaders, civil society organizations and prestigious national figures. The president of Uganda negotiated and oversaw the release.

Sudan, Neutralisation and Removal of Landmines

In 2015, the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement–North neutralized its stockpile of anti-personnel landmines following the signature of a Deed of Commitment, and with the technical help provided by experts from Geneva Call. Subsequently, the United Nations Mine Action Service, collaborating with the Sudanese Government continues to clear millions of square meters from unexploded ordnances (UXO) and landmines.

Sudan/South Sudan, Commitment of Non-State Armed Groups against Anti-Personnel Landmines and South Sudan’s Ratification of the Ottawa Convention

While it was involved in the armed opposition with the Government of Sudan, the SPLM/A committed to a total ban on anti-personnel mines, first by adopting a resolution and then by signing a Deed of Commitment. In 2002, it signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Sudan and UNMAS in order to undertake mine action. Following South Sudan’s independence, SPLM/A as a ruling party played a role in South Sudan’s succession to the Ottawa Convention and continued with the mine action.

Sudan, Release of Child Soldiers

In 2013, the government of Sudan and the Justice and Equality Movement signed a ceasefire agreement including obligations towards the protection of children. In 2016, Sudan signed an Action Plan with the United Nations to prevent the recruitment of children by its armed forces. If the measures agreed to in the Action Plan are completed, the Sudanese Government Security Forces will be removed from the annexes of the Secretary-General’s annual report on children and armed conflict.