RULAC Classifies a New Non-International Armed Conflict in Sudan

2 May 2023

In addition to the ongoing non-international armed conflicts (NIACs) that oppose the Sudanese armed forces to a number of non-state armed groups in the country, our Rule of Law in Armed Conflict (RULAC) online portal just classified a parallel NIAC between Sudan and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) led by General Hamadan.

Since the fighting between RSF and the Sudanese Army began on 15 April 2023, clashes have been reported across Sudan in Darfur, Merowe, al-Fasher, el-Obeid, Nyala, Kassala, Kabkabiya, the Red Sea city of Port Sudan, Gadariff, Damazin, and Kosti.

‘Both the intensity of these clashes, along with the level of organization of RSF allow us to conclude today to the existence of a NIAC – despite the adoption and extension of a ceasefire agreement as violence continues’ underlines Dr Chiara Redaelli, Research Fellow at the Geneva Academy.

‘As a consequence, international humanitarian law applies to these clashes and war crimes can be committed in this context’ she adds.

Information about the Parties, Classification and Applicable International Law

The entry on this conflict provides detailed information about this armed group, the classification and applicable international law.

About RULAC

The Rule of Law in Armed Conflicts (RULAC) online portal systematically qualifies situations of armed violence using the definition of armed conflict under international humanitarian law. RULAC also identifies the parties to these conflicts and applicable international law. It currently monitors more than 110 armed conflicts involving at least 55 states and more than 70 armed non-State actors.

MORE ON THIS THEMATIC AREA

News

Apply to Our Online Executive Master - MAS in International Law in Armed Conflict

4 February 2025

Applications for the upcoming academic year of our Online Executive Master – MAS in International Law in Armed Conflict - are now open. They will remain open until 30 May 2025, with courses starting at the end of September 2025.

Read more

News

The Jean-Pictet Competition: Learning Beyond the Classroom

10 December 2024

Each year, the Geneva Academy sends a team of students to the Jean-Pictet Competition. Participating in this leading moot court is a life-changing experience and an integral part of our programmes.

Read more

Warzone Event

Advanced IHL Seminar for Academics and Policymakers

25-29 August 2025, 09:00-17:30

Co-hosted with the ICRC, this event aims to enhance the capacity of academics to teach and research international humanitarian law, while also equipping policymakers with an in-depth understanding of ongoing legal debates.

Read more

Yemen,  Sana'a, Faj Attan district. Destruction. Short Course

The Rules Governing the Use of Force in International Law

9-17 April 2025

This online short course provides an overview of the content and evolution of the rules governing the use of unilateral force in international law, including military intervention on humanitarian grounds and the fight against international terrorism. It focuses on the practice of states and international organizations.

Read more

Neutrotechology Project

Neurotechnology and Human Rights

Started in August 2023

This project addresses the human rights implications stemming from the development of neurotechnology for commercial, non-therapeutic ends, and is based on a partnership between the Geneva Academy, the Geneva University Neurocentre and the UN Human Rights Council Advisory Committee. 

Read more

Computer screen with warning: civilian infrastucture: do not attack Project

The Digitalization of Armed Conflict

Started in September 2020

This project will explore humanitarian consequences and protection needs caused by the digitalization of armed conflicts and the extent to which these needs are addressed by international law, especially international humanitarian law.

Read more

Cover of the 2023 Geneva Academy Annual Report Publication

Annual Report 2023

published on July 2024

Read more