On November 18, 2024, the African Studies Center (ASC), in collaboration with the Weiser Diplomacy Center and the Center for Middle Eastern and North African Studies, hosted Sudan: In the Eye of the Storm—a day-long symposium dedicated to exploring the complex geopolitical, socio-economic, and cultural dynamics shaping Sudan’s present and future.

Bringing together a diverse group of scholars, policymakers, and practitioners, the symposium featured panel discussions, keynote addresses, and interactive sessions on a range of critical topics, including the drivers of conflict, conflict resolution strategies, human rights, economic development, and cultural heritage preservation.

Keynote Address: Understanding an Unprecedented Conflict

The symposium’s keynote speaker, Dr. Khalid Medani—associate professor of political science and Islamic studies at McGill University, director of the McGill Institute of Islamic Studies, and chair of the McGill African Studies Program—underscored the urgent need for scholarly and public engagement with Sudan’s ongoing crisis.

He emphasized the importance of forums like this symposium in both publicizing and analyzing the conflict, stating:

“Not only [do we need] to publicize what is going on, but also to analyze what is an unprecedented war in a country that has experienced multiple wars since its independence.”

Spotlighting the Human Impact

Beyond academic and policy discussions, the symposium sought to highlight the human realities of the conflict.

Panelist Banjor Musa, founder of For Sudan, a nonprofit supporting Sudanese students and fundraising for hospitals, shared a powerful testimony about the dire humanitarian conditions in Sudan. His remarks underscored the resilience of the Sudanese people amid adversity and the importance of international support and awareness.

A Commitment to Continued Dialogue

In his closing remarks, ASC Director Omolade Adunbi expressed his hope that this symposium would serve as the beginning of an ongoing series, fostering continued dialogue and collaboration on Sudan’s future.

“We hope this will become an ongoing symposium series to build on these productive and insightful conversations.”

Looking Ahead

ASC extends its gratitude to all panelists, participants, and attendees who contributed to this important conversation. As Sudan navigates a pivotal moment in its history, events like this symposium play a vital role in amplifying voices, generating solutions, and fostering global engagement.

For updates on future events and initiatives, visit https://ii.umich.edu/asc.