US foreign policy and Sudan

Sudan's economy is heavily dependent on oil exports, and the country's poor human rights record has led to international sanctions and isolation. The US government has imposed economic sanctions on Sudan, and in 1997, the US Congress passed the Sudan Peace Act, which prohibited US companies from doing business with the government of Sudan.

The US has also imposed travel restrictions on senior officials of the Sudanese government, and has frozen the assets of individuals and entities suspected of human rights abuses. In 2006, the US government designated Sudan as a state sponsor of terrorism, citing the country's support for militant groups in the region.

Despite these sanctions, the US has maintained diplomatic relations with Sudan, and has provided humanitarian assistance to the country. In 2005, the US and Sudan signed a joint statement on Sudan's cooperation with the International Criminal Court, which led to the lifting of some economic sanctions.

In recent years, the US has taken a more nuanced approach to its foreign policy towards Sudan, acknowledging the country's progress in areas such as counter-terrorism and human rights. However, human rights groups have criticized the US for not doing enough to address Sudan's ongoing conflict in Darfur, which has resulted in thousands of deaths and displacement.

"The United States is committed to supporting the people of Sudan in their efforts to build a more democratic and peaceful future." — U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, 2009

Author's summary:

The US foreign policy towards Sudan has been shaped by the country's human rights record, economic dependence on oil exports, and its designation as a state sponsor of terrorism. While the US has imposed sanctions and travel restrictions, it has also maintained diplomatic relations and provided humanitarian assistance, with a more nuanced approach in recent years.

Pearls and Irritations — 2025-11-24

US foreign policy and Sudan

Author's summary:

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