The United Nations has raised concerns about the escalating criminality and insecurity in the contested Abyei region, attributing it to the unauthorized presence of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This warning coincides with the UN Security Council’s extension of the mandate for the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA), the peacekeeping mission tasked with maintaining stability in the area.
A recent report by UNISFA highlighted the concerning activities of RSF elements, noting their establishment of illegal checkpoints and their role in exacerbating instability, particularly in the northern parts of Abyei. The RSF’s presence is especially problematic given their ongoing involvement as a major combatant in the wider conflict engulfing Sudan.
Adding to the complex security situation, the UN also pointed out the continued presence of South Sudanese forces in the southern part of Abyei. This constitutes a violation of the region’s demilitarized status and further undermines efforts to establish lasting peace and stability.
Political Process Stalled
The UN’s warning comes on the heels of the Security Council’s decision in November to renew UNISFA’s mandate. The peacekeeping mission is operating in an increasingly challenging environment, marked by a standstill in the political dialogue between Sudan and South Sudan regarding Abyei.
According to UN Assistant Secretary-General for Africa, Martha Pobee, “The political process between the Sudan and South Sudan on Abyei and border issues remains stalled.” This political impasse has significant implications for the long-term stability of the region.
Breakdown in Cooperation
Since the outbreak of war in Sudan in April 2023, cooperation between the Sudanese and South Sudanese governments on Abyei has essentially ceased. Neither government has participated in the Joint Political and Security Mechanism or the Abyei Joint Oversight Committee, both of which are crucial for coordinating security and political initiatives. Furthermore, plans to operationalize the Abyei Police Service, intended to provide local law enforcement, remain suspended.
UNISFA’s Efforts and Constraints
Despite the diplomatic freeze and the complex security landscape, UNISFA has continued its efforts to protect civilians and mediate local disputes. The mission has achieved some notable successes, including facilitating a peace agreement between the Twic and Ngok communities, which ended a two-year conflict. UNISFA has also worked to reduce violence between the Misseriya and Ngok Dinka communities through the Joint Community Peace Committee.
However, UNISFA faces significant operational constraints. A budgetary crisis affecting UN peacekeeping operations has forced the mission to reduce its personnel, which in turn limits its ability to effectively patrol the region and maintain order. This reduction in capacity is particularly concerning given the volatile security situation and the ongoing threats to civilians.
Call for International Support
With UNISFA’s mandate renewed, the UN Security Council has emphasized the urgent need for the international community to provide the necessary political and financial support to sustain the mission. The ongoing instability in Abyei poses a significant risk to regional peace and security, and a strong and well-resourced UNISFA is essential for mitigating that risk.
According to the Representative of Guyana, “UNISFA’s presence and role are more essential than ever in the current context in Abyei.” The mission’s ability to protect civilians, mediate disputes, and support the eventual resolution of the Abyei issue depends on the continued commitment of the international community.
