Sudan: Authorities declare month-long state of emergency in West Kordofan State Feb. 27

Event

Authorities declared a month-long state of emergency (SoE) across West Kordofan Feb. 27 to bolster security. While officials did not immediately specify all of the security measures that would be introduced under the SoE, they have reportedly established emergency courts and directed local authorities to seize weapons from citizens. Authorities may announce the imposition of additional security measures - including security force deployments, curfews, and checkpoints - on short notice.

Despite the imposition of the state of emergency, further violence cannot be ruled out in West Kordofan over the coming weeks. Transport and business disruptions are possible in areas subject to violence or heightened security measures.

Context

Creeping desertification brought on by climate change continues to drive intense competition in the region for access to scarce resources, such as grazing areas and drinking water. Given the easy availability of small arms, even minor, localized incidents regularly escalate into clashes. Such violence, in turn, can fuel rounds of reprisal attacks between various communities, sometimes resulting in high numbers of casualties.

Advice

Consider deferring nonessential travel to West Kordofan until the situation stabilizes. If operating in the state, avoid public gatherings and concentrations of security personnel. Travel in convoy and refrain from traveling at night and to locations recently impacted by violence. Adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation.