Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 May 2023
156. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the assessment that has been undertaken by his Department of the efficacy of the United Nations arms embargo on Sudan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24966/23]
View answerThe crisis in Sudan requires urgent and coordinated international engagement. The immediate focus must be on ensuring humanitarian access and protection for civilians, alongside consistent efforts to secure a ceasefire. Concerted international pressure for a credible mediation process will be also be vital.
Sanctions are an important tool of foreign policy, to deter States and non-state actors from pursuing actions which threaten international stability and harm people and communities, including through human rights violations and abuses.
UN sanctions on Sudan were first imposed in 2005 to address the conflict in Darfur through an arms embargo and targeted measures. Those who may be listed under this regime include individuals or entities which: impede the peace process; constitute a threat to stability in Darfur and the region; commit violations of international humanitarian or human rights law or other atrocities; or are responsible for offensive military overflights.
The UN sanctions regime primarily addresses the situation in Darfur, an area in the west of the country where some of the current fighting in Sudan has been concentrated. Three individuals have been listed to date— all in 2006.The EU added further provisions to the UN regime, extending the arms embargo to the whole of the territory of Sudan.
The most recent report from the UN Panel of Experts on Sudan, in 2023, noted that in the last reporting period, the proliferation of weapons and ammunition in Darfur intensified and continued to pose a serious threat to security.
Overall, implementation of the arms embargo in Sudan has been challenging. We will continue to monitor developments in Sudan, including with regard to sanctions. We will work closely with our partners in the EU to ensure there is a coordinated and clear response that promotes a resolution of the conflict in Sudan, and ensures a focus on the urgent humanitarian and protection needs of the Sudanese people.
