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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.
The 2008 Olympic Games, scheduled for Beijing, traditionally invoke a spirit of brotherhood and humanity. Historically, the Olympics were a time for the Olympic Truce, as the nations of the world ceased all battles in the spirit of unity and to provide safe passage for competing athletes, their families, and all attendants of the games.
As the Chinese government prepares its "One World, One Dream" themed campaign for the 2008 summer Olympic Games in held Beijing, we ask that China make good on its Olympic promise by pressuring the government of Sudan to end the genocide in Darfur.
Recent News
On July 31, 2007 the UN Security Council unanimously voted to pass Resolution 1769, authorizing the hybrid UN/AU peacekeeping mission to Darfur, labeled UNAMID (United Nations – African Union Mission in Darfur). Expected to cost over $2 billion, the 26,000 strong peacekeeping force will have a UN Chapter VII mandate allowing the use of force in self-defense, to ensure freedom of movement by humanitarian aid workers, and for the protection of civilians, although not for the seizure of illegal arms. Though the new UN headquarters in Darfur should be in place by October, UN officials expect full troop capacity to be on the ground in a year. Significantly, the resolution was passed while China held Presidency of the UN Security Council.
Take Action!
- 30 Second Action!
Thank Chinese Ambassador to the UN, Wang Guangya, for passing this Resolution 1769 while China held the Presidency of the UN Security Council, and ask him for continued constructive leadership on the issue.
- Tell the International Olympic Committee - Bring the Olympic Dream to Darfur! The IOC recently launched a new effort called Giving is Winning. The campaign aims to distribute sportswear in refugee camps across to the world - including in Chad (where thousands of Darfuri refugees are located). We hope that the IOC uses its unique role as custodians of the Olympic spirit to ensure peace and deliver security - not just sportswear - to Darfuris.
- 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.
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