| |
CHINA AND SUDAN: Fueling the genocide
Background
China is Sudan's leading foreign investor, one of its largest oil exporters, and one of its closest allies. An estimated 70% of Sudan's crude exports go to China. China is also one of the greatest sources of Sudan's arms - including not only guns and leg irons, but also heavy equipment, such as helicopters and fighter aircraft. In the meantime, Chinese investments soften the impact of sanctions that individual countries have imposed, and China has provided significant cover for Sudan before the United Nations Security Council, where it has blocked major efforts to impose international sanctions on Khartoum for the atrocities it is carrying out against its own people.
China stands in a unique position when it comes to having an effect on the policies of Sudanese Government. China has made some significant and constructive steps towards engaging Sudan on this issue, such as appointing a Special Envoy on African Affairs to negotiate the Darfur crisis. At the same time, however, it continues to expand its already considerable position in Sudan's oil sector, as well as maintaining its current economic and political partnership with Khartoum.
Recent History
On July 31, 2007 the UN Security Council, under Chinese Presidency, unanimously voted to pass Resolution 1769, authorizing a 26,000-strong hybrid UN/AU peacekeeping mission to Darfur, labeled UNAMID (United Nations - African Union Mission in Darfur). The UN authorized a Chapter VII mandate for UNAMID, which allows peacekeepers to use force in self-defense, to ensure freedom of movement by humanitarian aid workers, and for the protection of civilians.
Nearly a year later, UNAMID is already struggling. With only 9000 peacekeepers in place thus far and significant lack of funding and essential equipment, UNAMID has been able to do little to stem the tide of violence in Darfur.
Now more than ever China's leadership is essential to bringing peace and security back to Darfur. As President of the Security Council when Resolution 1769 passed, it holds special responsibility to ensure its swift and full implementation.
Take Action!
- Urge China to use its influence with Sudan to bring an end to the genocide in Darfur. Write to Chinese Ambassador to the US, Zhou Wenzhong at:
Ambassador Zhou Wenzhong
2201 Wisconsin Avenue, N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20007
- Divest from Darfur!
Revenue from Sudan's oil sector directly fuels the genocide in Darfur, and China is Sudan's hottest customer. Ensuring that none of your personal funds are invested in Chinese oil companies doing business with Sudan is an individual action that can carry a lot of weight. Use the Sudan Divestment Task Force's Screening Tool to make sure your investments are free and clear of Sudanese oil business.
To learn more about divesting from Chinese oil companies
doing business in Sudan, click here.
To learn more about Divestment, click here.
Resources on China and Sudan:
For more resources on Darfur, including international agreements
and UN documents, click here.
|
