Arabic version: شباب سودانيون يدعون إلى العدالة وحوار سلام شامل

According to Allafrica, young Sudanese interviewed by Radio Dabanga voiced differing views on a proposed Sudanese-Sudanese dialogue initiative intended to help end the war. They broadly agreed that a future political process must address violations, the worsening humanitarian situation, and the historical, political and social causes of the conflict that began on 15 April 2023.

Feminist activist and human rights defender Ibtihal Abdelrahman said lasting peace could not rest on power and wealth sharing or superficial settlements. She questioned who would participate in the proposed dialogue and urged transitional justice before a political process, including accountability for crimes and violations from 1989 to the present, reparations, compensation, official apologies, and efforts to address the war’s social and psychological effects.

Youth activist Mortada Ahmed said the crisis was fundamentally military and argued that direct negotiations between the warring military parties and their allies should first secure a ceasefire, stop bloodshed and restore security. He said political and civilian arrangements should follow the end of fighting, and called for rebuilding the military establishment through integrating and demobilising armed groups and militias into one professional national army.

Rights campaigner Sawsan Juma Mousa described dialogue as a fundamental entry point for ending Sudan’s conflicts, provided it is inclusive and tackles their roots rather than becoming elite political arrangements. She said past dialogues and agreements had not been sufficiently inclusive or addressed deeper causes of conflict. Abdelrahman also called for a civilian state, independent and transparent judicial institutions, and a permanent constitution that represents Sudan’s components. The activists agreed that lasting peace requires broad civilian and community participation, an end to violations, and action on the consequences of war.