Pushing for Progress on Abyei

Jul 31, 2017 | Enough Project
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The six years following the signing of the June 2011 Agreement on Temporary Arrangements for the Administration and Security of the Abyei Area have proved the inability, or perhaps the unwillingness, of Sudan and South Sudan to form a joint administration in Abyei and conduct the Abyei referendum. The undeniable reality is that evolving dynamics in Abyei, as well as in the two countries, make it very difficult to form a joint administration in the region today. But this should not be a reason to hold civilian populations in Abyei hostage to political disagreements that could drag on for many more years. With the ongoing failure of both countries to form a joint administration, it is important to take into consideration the human suffering this causes in Abyei. The Ngok Dinka, who have historically shouldered a heavy burden as a result of prolonged displacement and the devastation of their livelihoods and security, deserve recognition of their grievances. It is therefore important to recognize the need for the Ngok Dinka to have a separate, internationally-recognized, temporary administrative structure in Abyei to help them with the provision of security and delivery of services. Another similar administration should also be established for the Misseriya to administer their affairs independently in their villages. On the ground, Sudan and South Sudan maintain de facto administrative control over portions of the area. The Government of Sudan still controls the northern part of Abyei area, with Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) maintaining a presence around the Diffra oil fields. Today, all administrative functions related to villages in northern Abyei area are already being run by the West Kordofan town of El-Muglad. South Sudan, on the other hand, controls Abyei town as well as many villages about 30 kilometers north, west, and east of Abyei town. In case of the continued failure of both countries to form a joint administration, this de facto control should be recognized immediately in the form of temporary administrative structures.