Question Period Note: Coup d'État in Sudan

On October 25, the military component of Sudan's Transitional Government unconstitutionally seized power, putting at risk the democratic and human rights gains of the 2019 political revolution.

• The promotion and protection of human rights, democracy and fundamental freedoms is an integral part of Canada's foreign policy. Canada strongly condemns the unconstitutional seizure of power by the military in Sudan.
• Canada has called for the restoration of the civilian-led Transition Government and all transitional arrangements. Canada has also called for the immediate release of officials who have been arbitrarily detained.
• Canada is closely monitoring ongoing international mediation efforts, and will explore additional potential actions in concert with key partners.

• We urge all sides to exercise restraint and reiterate our support for a peaceful return to the transitional process.

The military seized government on October 25. Large demonstrations in support of Sudan's civilian government have taken place, in Khartoum and elsewhere. No country has recognized the new government. The confrontation between demonstrators and security forces have led to a dozen deaths and more than 300 injured. Several political parties and professional unions have called for a civil servant strike and civil disobedience. Dozens of current and former Sudanese Ambassadors, including Sudan's Head of Mission to Canada have signed a statement rejecting this coup attempt. The situation remains volatile, and mediation efforts continue supported by the UN, US, Saudi, Emirates and Egypt.

Canada issued a ministerial statement on October 25 condemning the attempted coup, and calling for the release of all those arbitrarily arrested and detained (including PM Hamdok, under house arrest). Canada continues to engage with likeminded to discuss additional actions, and has joined in collective statements (e.g. with Friends of Sudan group). Canada co-requested a Special Session of the Human Rights Council (November 5), during which Canada issued a National Statement and co-sponsored a resolution denouncing the ongoing human rights abuses and reinforcing support for a peaceful return to the transitional process.

The UNSC issued a statement calling for the restoration of the civilian-led transitional government. The African Union has suspended Sudan, and has sent a mission to find a solution to the political stalemate. The IFIs have paused their programming. The US suspended US$700M in emergency economic support funds, while other partners are reviewing their programming and have yet to make decisions.

Canada's relationship with Sudan had grown significantly since the fall of Al Bashir in 2019. E.g.: Canada's diplomatic representation was upgraded to Ambassadorial level, and Canada re-established a bilateral development assistance program (up to $20M annually). Canada provided $3M to support the transition from the UN peacekeeping mission in Darfur (UNAMID) toward the broader civilian-led political mission (UNITAMS). Complementing $31.7M to address humanitarian needs.

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