UN SECURITY COUNCIL BACKS AFRICAN UNION DEADLINE

The United Nations Security Council has unanimously demanded that the Sudanese government and rebels work together to solve the crisis in Darfur by April 30, 2006.  This measure endorses the deadline put in place by the African Union Peace and Security Council.  

The Security Council not only demanded that all parties make the necessary efforts to reach an agreement, but also reaffirmed its determination to hold accountable those responsible for blocking peace efforts.  The Council has expressed its belief that "an inclusive political settlement is key to peace in Sudan." 

The decision to endorse the April 30 deadline, initiated by the African Union, is an attempt to effectively pressure the Sudanese government to put an end to the violence and atrocities occurring in Darfur.  International cooperation is vital to reaching a cease-fire to stop the violence that has claimed the lives of over 400,000 people and displaced over 2 million Sudanese citizens.  

The setting of a prompt deadline is an encouraging step aimed at preventing further loss of lives.  The international community must continue to pressure the Sudanese government to save not only the lives of millions of Darfurians, but also to avoid further conflict with neighboring Chad. 

The violence and retaliation has started to affect the bordering nation and the refugees temporarily living there.  Chad recently announced the breaking of diplomatic relations between the two countries, putting the lives of thousands of refugees at stake. 

+ DARFUR RESOURCE CENTER
 

Updated April 14, 2006