Crisis In Darfur

The Beginning

Mar 1, 2003

Fighting breaks out in the Darfur region of Sudan between the Sudanese government and rebels from the Sudan Liberation Army (SLA) and the Justice and Equality Movement (JEM).

Displacement

Apr 1, 2003

Displaced people begin to arrive in the neighboring country of Chad in order to escape the violent conflict.

Ceasefire

Sep 1, 2003

The Sudanese government and the SLA reach a ceasefire agreement. However, both sides accuse the other of breaking the agreement shortly after.

Restriction

Dec 1, 2003

After a round of attacks on villages by Arab Janjaweed groups, the Sudanese government begins to restrict access to the country for humanitarian efforts by denying or delaying entry into the country.

Agreement

Jul 23, 2004

Leaders of the SLA and JEM agree to peace talks with the Sudanese government in an attempt to bring an end to the conflict.

Accusation

Feb 1, 2005

The United Nations accuses the Sudanese government and militias of abuses against the people in Darfur but does not go as far to call the violence genocide.

Assistance

Nov 1, 2006

The African Union extends peacekeeping efforts in Darfur for six months.

Further Involvement

Jan 1, 2008

The United Nations officially takes over peacekeeping efforts in Darfur.

Arrest

Jul 1, 2008

The top prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) calls for the arrest of al-Bashir for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Darfur. First ever calling for the arrest of a sitting head of state.

Declaration

Aug 1, 2009

United Nations military commander delcares the war in Darfur to be over. Comments are criticized by activists.

Arrest - 2

Jul 1, 2010

ICC issues second arrest warrant for al-Bashir, this time accusing him of genocide as well. Kenya does not enforce warrant during al-Bashir's visit soon after.