Sudan at the Brink: Self-Determination and National Unity

Title Page, Frontispiece, Copyright

‘‘Francis Deng and I worked intensively with the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement and successive governments in Khartoum for years to promote the cause of peace and unity in the Sudan. I know no other Sudanese who has devoted so much to bridging the gulf that has torn his country apart. Francis is a strong believer in unity, but one based on equality and justice for all. This book sheds important light on the challenges facing the Sudan and should be taken seriously by all concerned with the developments in the country.’’—Olusegun Obasanjo, former President of Nigeria ‘‘Over the last several decades, Francis Deng has been one of our major sources of insight into developments in Sudan. I have always been impressed by Deng’s ability to analyze the situation compassionately but objectively with a remarkable ability to see the point of view of adversaries. Deng’s perspective on his country is an exceptional one that should be given serious attention by all concerned with developments in the Sudan.’’—Congressman Donald M. Payne, Chairman of the House Sub-Committee on Africa ‘‘This book reflects a penetrating analysis of the problems and a refreshing optimism without which we would be defeated before we even try. I strongly recommend that this book be compulsory reading for all the stakeholders in the peace process in Sudan.’’—Ibrahim Gambari, Joint Special Representative of the African Union–United Nations Hybrid Operations in Darfur ‘‘Dr. Deng has written a book of extraordinary importance, one that is rich in well-documented information, gives insight beyond any prior publication, and points the way toward practical solutions.’’—David A. Hamburg, M.D., President Emeritus, Carnegie Corporation of New York ‘‘The continent of Africa and the international community are watching the upcoming referendum in Southern Sudan with grave concern for the future of the country. As Francis Deng explains in this brief overview of the situation, acceptance of the will of the people of the South must be combined with maintaining the aspiration for unity, whatever the outcome of the referendum. Building the foundation for national unity by negotiating post-referendum arrangements is a challenge which the leadership of the Sudan must embrace in earnest and with a lofty vision for the ultimate destiny of the Nation.’’—Salim Ahmed Salim, President of the Julius Nyerere Foundation ‘‘The title of this book spotlights the challenges confronting the Sudan. This book should act as a catalyst in the debate on these vitally important issues. It is insightful and forward-looking. I hope all Sudanese, Southern and Northern, as well as those concerned about the future of the country and people, will read this book.’’—Haile Menkerios, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General in Sudan ‘‘In this readable short book, Francis Deng again lends a reasoned and articulate voice—dispassionate, yet subtly positive—on how the opportunities and challenges facing Sudan can best be tackled in the larger interest.’’—Taye-Brook Zerihoun, Assistant Secretary-General for Political Affairs, United Nations ‘‘This book is a timely reminder of Francis Deng’s lifelong efforts to advance peace and cooperation among Sudanese. It provides a strong basis for dialogue on the future of Sudan and insight on how the country’s most challenging questions can be answered.’’—former President Jimmy Carter, Nobel Peace Laureate Sudan at the Brink INTERNATIONAL HUMANITARIAN AFFAIRS Kevin M. Cahill, M.D., series editor 1. Kevin M. Cahill, M.D., Emergency Relief Operations* 2. Kevin M. Cahill, M.D., Basics of International Humanitarian Mission* 3. Kevin M. Cahill, M.D., Traditions, Values, and Humanitarian Action* 4. Kevin M. Cahill, M.D., Technology for Humanitarian Action 5. Kevin M. Cahill, M.D., Human Security for All: A Tribute to Sergio Vieira de Mello 6. Kevin M. Cahill, M.D., The Pulse of Humanitarian Assistance 7. Kevin M. Cahill, M.D., and Herbert Gilles, M.D., Tropical Medicine: A Clinical Text 8. Kevin M. Cahill, M.D., Even in Chaos: Education in Times of Emergency Also by Kevin M. Cahill, M.D. Preventive Diplomacy: Stopping Wars Before They Start* To Bear Witness: A Journey of Healing and Solidarity* * Available in French translation Sudan at the Brink Self-Determination and National Unity FRANCIS MADING DENG A JOINT PUBLICATION OF FORDHAM UNIVERSITY PRESS AND THE INSTITUTE FOR INTERNATIONAL HUMANITARIAN AFFAIRS NEW YORK 2010 Copyright 䉷 2010 The Institute for International...