AU Suspends Sudan's Membership After Military Coup

The African Union (AU) suspended Sudan's membership on October 27, 2021, following a military coup led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan on October 25, 2021, which dissolved the transitional government and declared a state of emergency. The AU's Peace and Security Council (PSC) reaffirmed that the suspension would remain in effect until a democratic transitional government is restored.

The AU faces challenges in balancing its zero-tolerance policy against unconstitutional changes in government while addressing Sudan's ongoing humanitarian crisis and instability. The PSC is considering various diplomatic strategies to navigate the restoration of Sudan's membership, including a step-by-step approach to diplomacy and the establishment of a civilian-led transitional authority.

The AU has condemned the role of the military in ongoing human rights violations and has rejected proposals that do not include a process for establishing a civilian-led government. The situation in Sudan remains a significant security challenge for the AU and the broader region.