Daily Darfur: Impunity Carrots

by Michelle

categories: Daily Darfur, Obama Administration

Published August 11, 2009 @ 03:58AM PT

US Special Envoy to Sudan Scott Gration went on the defensive yesterday, issuing a statement on his work thus far in response to the backlash against his comments at a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing last week. Although Gration's remarks that sanctions against Sudan should be eased and the country should be taken off the US's list of state sponsors of terrorism garnered broad condemnation, this statement seems directed to the US advocacy movement, for which he is widely known to spare little love.

(Side note: Advocate Nina McMurry posted an explanation of US sanctions against Sudan over at Enough.)

While I find his attempt to cast his lot alongside that of Africa's many refugees somewhat misguided --- being forced to flee your home is always traumatic, but it's an entirely different ordeal when you a.) are or end up impoverished as a result and b.) don't have anyone to come evacuate you --- the statement is otherwise a genuine attempt make his case, from an envoy that has thus far kept the media and the public at arms length. He writes:

"I believe that we cannot hope to achieve these results and a lasting peace if we only engage with those we already agree with. We must work to mediate and work with all stakeholders-Khartoum, Juba, rebel groups, Chad, civil society, and the international community. It is important to recognize the stated position of the US government on President Al-Bashir. We hold him responsible for the actions of his government and recognize that the justice process is moving forward. I have not met and have no plans to meet with President Al-Bashir."

No one disputes this, at face value. The problem is, as numerous Sudan policy wonks have pointed out over the last few months, that not all belligerents in this conflict bear equal burdens of responsibility, and the regime in Khartoum is famous for playing along with international attempts to "incentivize good behavior" while continuing its dirty tricks at home. We have a history to learn from here. Plans for "incentivizing good behavior on all sides" need a heavy dose of caution, and disincentives, to ensure that Khartoum is not rewarded with making substantive progress towards peace.

Otherwise, we're just doling out impunity carrots.

In his closing, Gration adds:

"As we continue moving forward, I will need the support and engagement of the entire community that is dedicated to addressing the challenges facing Sudan. We all have to work together and to be on the same team. Let us continue to exchange our best ideas in support of our important mission."

That goes both ways, Mr. Gration.

[Photo of Darfuri refugees in Chad.]