Wavering Sudan as Key to Resolving the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam Conflict

Abstract

This article analyzes the role of Sudan in the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) dispute settlement process. The role of the Nile and water resources in the domestic policy of Sudan in connection with its foreign policy is researched mindfully. In different historical periods, political elites have formed a water discourse to expand their power and obtain resources, while using the rhetoric of modernization and consolidation of the nation. In order to track the change in discourse of the GERD project in connection with the political regime change in 2019, an analysis of the statements of officials was carried out using materials from the Sudanese media. The analysis revealed a gradual change in position from more pragmatic to more confrontational in relation to Ethiopia. Despite this, Sudan is closest to a pragmatic approach in the negotiation process on the Nile waters and can help to reach a compromise.