The conflict in Sudan is financially fueled by illicit gold smuggling, with both military factions involved in the trade. This gold, largely funneled to the United Arab Emirates, enables the purchase of weapons that have resulted in considerable loss of life. The RSF’s power surge is predominantly attributed to this gold trade, despite documented war crimes committed by the group.
In the ongoing conflict in Sudan, illicit gold smuggling significantly finances both the military and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This situation has arisen since the commencement of fighting in April 2023, leading to tens of thousands of casualties. The United Arab Emirates plays a pivotal role by receiving much of this wealth, despite being aware of the RSF’s involvement in severe war crimes, including crimes against humanity. As Declan Walsh, the chief Africa correspondent for The New York Times, points out, gold secretion profoundly influences the RSF’s increasing power.
The conflict in Sudan involves a struggle between the national military and the RSF, which has risen to prominence partly through the exploitation of the country’s abundant gold resources. These resources are frequently smuggled out of Sudan and sold, allowing both factions to finance their military operations, namely through the acquisition of arms. The United Nations has called for a cessation of hostilities, highlighting the dire humanitarian impacts stemming from the conflict and the gold trade.
The link between gold smuggling and the perpetuation of violence in Sudan underscores the complexities of the conflict. The role of international players, particularly the United Arab Emirates, raises ethical concerns regarding their support of the RSF in light of widespread allegations of grave human rights abuses. The continued illicit gold trade exacerbates the humanitarian crisis while simultaneously reinforcing the RSF’s position in the power struggle.
Original Source: www.democracynow.org
