Sudan Explained: The Forgotten Victim of Imperialism

In the heart of Northeast Africa, the world's largest humanitarian crisis rages on. At its core, the conflict is a battle over who controls the area's rich natural resources. Today, the ongoing conflict between two militant groups, the RSF and the SAF, has led to as many as 150,000 people killed, over 14 million displaced, and the world's worst famine in decades. Just yesterday, attacks on an El Fasher hospital resulted in hundreds of deaths. New satellite images reveal that the bloodshed in Sudan is visible even in outer space. While Sudan suffers, multiple international actors stand to benefit.

U.A.E. profits from Sudanese suffering

The Rapid Sudanese Forces are currently advancing on civillian territories, causing violence throughout the North Darfur state. In the past 18 months, the RSF has denied access to food and water for communities living under constant bombardment. 1,711 miles away, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has sent resources, propaganda, and weapons to back the violent militia's targeting of civilians. But why? The Gulf state aims to keep a stronghold of political power in order to advance its economic interests of exploiting the rich natural resources in Sudan. Emirati monarchs view the country as a literal goldmine for minerals, resources, and trade. Thus, they're willing to do anything to protect their interests, including carrying out a genocide.

Moreover, the UAE's international meddling serves as a way to advance Western interests. Both America and Israel show deep commitment to the UAE's goals of consolidating power. In 2025, the U.S is set to invest $60 billion in UAE energy projects, the same energy the RSF had to kill thousands of Sudanese citizens to get. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and President Donald J. Trump have shaken hands, both bloodied. The UAE's relationship with Israel is even more sinister. Just two days ago, an Israeli private defense company established a subsidiary in the UAE with over 30 billion dollars in investment.

The United Arab Emirates dynasty has strong cultural soft power from Dubai's reputation as a luxurious city to the Etihad Stadium in Manchester, England. However, as global citizens, we have a duty to stand up to a genocide driven by profit and backed by the West. As everyday civilians, it can become overwhelming to read or hear about mass killings we have no power over. However, any action is better than inaction. Through purposeful boycotts of UAE-owned companies, media, and products, we can send a powerful message. There must be a collective boycott of the UAE until it ceases its enabling of genocide in Sudan.