Briefing Paper

Protection of Civilians in African Peace Missions The Case of the African Union Mission in Sudan, Darfur

“This paper examines the problems of civilian protection created by the war in Darfur, focusing on the role of AMIS and the challenges it has encountered in protecting civilians in Darfur. It examines the challenges that have faced the proposed UN force, and the prospects of a hybrid force involving the AU and UN. Finally, it explores the role of external players such
as the European Union (EU), North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), the Arab League and China in resolving the Darfur crisis. The paper argues for the strengthening of the AU force in the context of the UN support and the fast-tracking of the peace process within Darfur between Khartoum and the Darfur rebels. It also draws attention to the need for dialogue between Khartoum and its neighbours to ensure that the region does not become another haven of extremism and terrorism.”