Spotlight on Sudan

This is a critical moment for Sudan. The weeks and months ahead will determine the prospects for
lasting peace in the country. Although a great amount of attention is currently being paid to southern
Sudan’s referendum on independence, there is danger that the spotlight on Sudan will fade in the weeks
and months ahead. Given the ongoing issues that will need attention, a lack of continued focus could
have disastrous results.

Southern Sudan
Although the long-awaited referendum on southern Sudanese independence began on-time, agreement
on critical post-referendum issues has not been achieved. These agreements include the status of the
contentious Abyei region, demarcation of the north-south border, oil sharing and citizenship
arrangements. Failure to reach agreement on any of these crucial issues could increase the potential for
widespread fighting. Assuming that the people of southern Sudan will overwhelmingly vote for
independence as data suggests, this gives the parties less than 6 months to reach agreement on these
issues before July 9th when—in accordance with the Comprehensive Peace Agreement—south Sudan
could be declared the world’s newest country.

Darfur
Meanwhile, the ongoing crisis in Darfur remains unresolved as peace talks remain stalled and fighting
has continued. Throughout 2010, an estimated 300,000 people were displaced due to fighting. In
December alone there were 32,000 displaced.

Opportunities in the House

Join the Sudan Caucus and the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission
Both the Sudan Caucus and Human Rights Commission offer key opportunities for members of the
House of Representatives to stay up-to-date on the issues facing Sudan. Please consider joining and
actively participating in these groups.

Attend Briefings and Other Informational Events on Sudan

Given all of the ongoing issues specific to Sudan, there are likely to be staff and member briefings on the
situation. We anticipate that many of these will be held in collaboration with the Sudan Caucus and
Human Rights Commission. We encourage members of Congress and members of Congressional staff to
attend these important sessions.

Upcoming
We anticipate that Congressional sign-on letters, resolutions and bills will be pursued by the House of
Representatives in 2011. We would be happy to stay in touch with the office as these opportunities
arise and we hope that you will consider signing on to upcoming initiatives.

1025 Connecticut Avenue, Suite 310 I Washington, D.C. 20036 I 202-556-2100

www.savedarfur.org I www.genocideintervention.net