[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 139 (Thursday, October 27, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2204]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             NEW URGENCY REQUIRED TO STOP VIOLENCE IN SUDAN

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. CHRIS VAN HOLLEN

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 27, 2005

  Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Speaker, I am alarmed and worried about recent 
reports coming out of Sudan describing deteriorating political 
conditions and an increase of violence. The world's governments, 
including the United States have moved too slowly to resolve the 
conflict in Sudan. And now, despite a negotiated ceasefire, we have 
received numerous reports of renewed killings and abductions, including 
attacks on aid workers and African Union peacekeepers.
  The escalating violence is threatening humanitarian support for 
millions of people as international aid workers, increasingly find 
themselves the target of violence. Last month, a squad supported by 
Sudanese government helicopters attacked a camp for displaced civilians 
in Darfur, killing 35. Days later, in West Darfur, an Arab rebel group 
abducted 18 African peacekeepers. Last week, two African Union 
peacekeeping soldiers were killed in an ambush along with two civilian 
contractors. Three other African peacekeepers were wounded during the 
same raid.
  The Bush Administration's slow response offers little hope for 
success and sets no deadline for resolution. We must adopt a new 
approach that recognizes the urgency of the situation on the ground.
  If the ceasefire is to successfully progress toward a fully 
implemented peace agreement, the U.S. will need to play a more active 
role in increasing the influence and capabilities of the African Union 
troops. Currently there are 6,000 peacekeepers working to secure an 
area the size of Texas and containing a population approaching two 
million. By honoring its pledge to provide $50 million as part of the 
FY06 Foreign Operations bill for equipment and supplies, the 
Administration would do much to assist the efforts of the African 
Union.
  The U.S. should also work aggressively with the AU on expanding the 
mandate of the African Union peacekeepers. After more than a year, 
peacekeeping troops are still confused about their role in the region 
and about their enforcement powers. While AU troops have been able to 
protect civilians in some instances, their mandate does not expressly 
include this important responsibility. As a result, their ability to 
protect civilians from violence has been extremely limited and varies 
from one contingent to the next.
  Finally, the Bush Administration should pressure the Sudanese 
government to fully implement the Comprehensive Peace Agreement. That 
means the commissions and boards mandated by the peace agreement to 
oversee such contentious, but essential issues as petroleum production 
and military operations must be established.
  Sudan has been the focus of organized armed conflict for 20 of the 
last 21 years. Given that the Administration in Khartoum has 
demonstrated only token commitment to the goal of establishing a 
lasting peace, only the active, aggressive engagement of the United 
States will make it possible for the Sudanese people to one day be able 
to return safely to their homes.

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