UNAMID-UNV handbook

UNAMID UNV PRE ASSIGNMENT BRIEFING PACKAGE inspiration in action

FIRST EDITION

UNITED NATIONS - AFRICAN UNION MISSION IN DARFUR UNAMID UNV - PRE ASSIGNMENT BRIEFING PACKAGE

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The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme is the UN organization that contributes to peace and development through volunteerism worldwide.

Volunteerism is a powerful means of engaging people in tackling development challenges, and it can transform the pace and nature of development. Volunteerism benefits both society at large and the individual volunteer by strengthening trust, solidarity and reciprocity among citizens, and by purposefully creating opportunities for participation.

UNV contributes to peace and development by advocating for recognition of volunteers, working with partners to integrate volunteerism into development programming, and mobilizing an increasing number and diversity of volunteers, including experienced UNV volunteers, throughout the world. UNV embraces volunteerism as universal and inclusive, and recognizes volunteerism in its diversity as well as the values that sustain it: free will, commitment, engagement and solidarity.

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UNAMID UNV PRE ASSIGNMENT BRIEFING PACKAGE FIRST EDITION

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Table of Contents

Introduction...................................................................................................................................................5 The Darfur Region of Sudan.....................................................................................................................6 Basic Facts and Figures...............................................................................................................................6 Economic Summary....................................................................................................................................6 Geography......................................................................................................................................................7 Climate ............................................................................................................................................................7 Background Information on UNAMID...................................................................................................8 UNAMID Mandate......................................................................................................................................10 Mission Headquarters and Location...................................................................................................13 Practical Information................................................................................................................................13 Pre-Travel To Sudan (Khartoum)...........................................................................................................15 Arrival in Khartoum...................................................................................................................................17 Transfer to El Fasher, Darfur....................................................................................................................18 Life in the Regional Offices (Sectors)..................................................................................................19 Code of Conduct for International UNV Volunteers......................................................................20 Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (Sea)...................................................................................................21 Annexes: I. Comprehensive Peace Agreement......................................................................................22 II. Darfur Peace Agreement ........................................................................................................24

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INTRODUCTION

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ongratulations on your selection as a UNV volunteer for AU-UN Mssion in Darfur (UNAMID).

We in the Support Office, the entire UNV family here in UNAMID, Darfur, Sudan look forward to receiving you warmly into the family.

The UNV Support Office was set up to ensure that all UN Volunteers assigned to the Mission receive full administrative and substantive support. Apart from the UNV Programme with UNAMID there is also a UNV Programme with our sister Mission in Sudan, the UN Mission in Sudan (UNMIS) and a regular UNV Programme which has operated in Sudan for many years and is associated with UNDP and other UN agencies.

You will be part of the UNV programme with UNAMID. At fully deployed strength there will be approximately 616 International UNV (IUNV) and 4 National UNV (NUNV) volunteers in this programme working within all the components of UNAMID such as Human Rights, Civil Affairs, Protection/Child Protection, Public Information, Medical Support, Engineering, Aviation, Transport and many others. As of August 2010, we are 450 UNV volunteers in UNAMID. We hope you find this pre-assignment briefing a useful tool in preparing for your assignment.

IMPORTANT CONTACTS The following contact information should useful for you:

Omar Jallow Programme Manager +249 (0) 922410050 jallow2@un.org El Fasher

Thomas Aggrey-Fynn Support Officer +249 (0) 927673749 aggrey-fynn@un.org El Fasher

Faith Zake Travel Officer +249 (0) 912568326 faith@un.org Khartoum

Karma Phuntsho Support Officer +249 (0) 927673596 Phuntsho@un.org El Fasher

Maria Marsiani Support Officer +249 (0) 924056445 marsiani@un.org El Fasher

Ossam Adam Admin. Assistant +249 (0) 912446858 adam35@un.org El Fasher

Nancy Chitiza Support Officer +249 (0) 923255168 wiahn@un.org El Fasher

Mohammed Sulaiman Admin. Assistant mohammedsuleiman@un.org Khartoum

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The Darfur Region of Sudan Basic Facts & Figures It is important to note and understand that Darfur is not a country by itself but, a region (Western Region) of the country, Sudan. The region was home to about 6 million people and is about the size of France. Darfur is home to racially mixed tribes of settled peasants, who identify as African, and nomadic herders, who identify as Arab. The majority of people in both groups are Muslim.

Sudan is the largest country in Africa and contains most of the Nile River and its tributaries. In the capital of Sudan, Khartoum, the Blue Nile and the White Nile meet.

Borders: Egypt, Libya, Chad, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, Kenya, Ethiopia, and Eritrea; also has some coastline on the Red Sea. Official name: Republic of Sudan Capital City: Khartoum (2.1 million inhabitants) Currency: Sudanese Pound Land Area: 2,376,000 sq km Population: 40,218,455 (estimated, in 2008.)

Religions: Sunni Muslim 70% (in north), indigenous beliefs 25%, Christian 5% (mostly in south and Khartoum) Languages: Arabic (official), Nubian, Ta Bedawie, diverse dialects of Nilotic, Nilo-Hamitic, Sudanic languages, English

Economic summary

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iven the increase in oil production and large inflows of foreign direct investment, Sudan’s economy is currently in a boom. The GDP growth registered more than 10% per year in 2006 and 2007.

From 1997 to date, Sudan has been working with the IMF to implement macroeconomic reforms, including a managed float of the exchange rate. Sudan began exporting crude oil in the last quarter of 1999. Agricultural production remains important, because it employs 80% of the work force and contributes a third of GDP. The Darfur conflict, the aftermath of two decades of civil war in the south, the lack of basic infrastructure in large areas, and a reliance by much of the population on subsistence agriculture ensure much of the population will remain at or below the poverty line for years despite rapid rises in average per capita income. In January 2007, the government introduced a new currency, the Sudanese Pound, at an initial exchange rate of $1.00 equals 2 Sudanese Pounds.

GDP/PPP (2007 est.): per capita $2,500.

Real growth rate: 12.8 %.

Inflation: 5.3%.

Unemployment: 18.7%.

Population below the poverty line: 40% (2004 est.)

Agriculture: cotton, groundnuts (peanuts), sorghum, millet, wheat, gum arabic, sugarcane,

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cassava (tapioca), mangos, papaya, bananas, sweet potatoes, sesame; sheep, livestock. Arable land: 7%.

Industries: oil, cotton ginning, textiles, cement, edible oils, sugar, soap distilling, shoes, petroleum refining, pharmaceuticals, armaments, automobile/light truck assembly.

Labour force: 7.415 million (1996 est.); agriculture 80%, industry 7%, services 13% (1998 est.).

Natural resources: petroleum; small reserves of iron ore, copper, chromium ore, zinc, tungsten, mica, silver, gold, hydropower.

Exports: $9.156 billion f.o.b. (2007 est.): oil and petroleum products; cotton, sesame, livestock, groundnuts, gum arabic, sugar.

Imports: $8.262 billion f.o.b. (2007 est.): foodstuffs, manufactured goods, refinery and transport equipment, medicines and chemicals, textiles, wheat.

(Source: The 2008 World Factbook)

Geography

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he topography of the Sudan is generally a broad plain, with mountains in the northeast near the Red Sea coast, and mountains near the south-eastern borders. The Nile is the dominant geographical feature of Sudan as around 70% of the area of the country is situated within the Nile River catchments. The Blue Nile and the White Nile originating, respectively, in the Ethiopian highlands and the Equatorial lakes, join in Khartoum to form the Nile River which flows to Egypt.

The Nile has several tributaries and extensive swamps in the south. The Nile River is the longest river in the world, 6671 km long (from its remotest headstream in Burundi to the Mediterranean Sea). It is shared by ten countries but about 60% of its length lies within Sudan.

Climate

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he Sudan lies in desert and tropical Africa. Its climate varies from tropical in the South - savannah in the midlands, arid desert in the north, and Mediterranean climate with winter rain in the east.

The weather is extremely hot (less so from November to March). Summers are very hot throughout the country, whilst winters are cooler in the north. In the north, sandstorms blow across the Sahara from April to September.

There is a rainy season which varies by region (April to November). In the extreme north, there is little rain but the central region has some rainfall from July to August. The southern region has much higher rainfall, the wet season lasting May to October.

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UNAMID’S Background

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p to 300,000 people are thought to have died and at least two and a half million displaced from their homes in Darfur since fighting broke out in 2003 between the Government of Sudan and its allied Janjaweed militia, and other armed rebel groups. Widespread atrocities such as the murder of civilians and the rape of women and girls have been committed from the start of the conflict and continue.

The UN raised the alarm on the crisis in Darfur in 2003 and finding a lasting resolution has been a top priority for the Security Council and two consecutive Secretaries-General.

Under the auspices of the African Union (AU) and with support of the UN and other partners, the Darfur Peace Agreement (DPA) was signed on 5 May 2006. Intensive diplomatic and political efforts to bring the non-signatories into the peace process continue.

In accordance with the decision of the 16 November 2006 High-Level consultations in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia,—attended by former Secretary-General Kofi Annan, the five Permanent Members of the Security Council, representatives of the Government of Sudan, the AU and other States and organizations with political influence in the region — the UN Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO) developed and implemented a three-phased approach to augment the existing African Union Mission in Sudan (AMIS) and deploy an unprecedented joint AU/UN peacekeeping operation in Darfur.

Intensive private and public diplomacy by Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and several actors in the international community resulted in Sudan’s acceptance of this force in June 2007. It was formally established by the Security Council on 31 July 2007 through the adoption of resolution 1769 (2007) , which authorized the establishment of UNAMID, under Chapter VII of the UN Charter, for an initial period of 12 months. UNAMID formally took over from AMIS on 31 December 2007. The mandate was extended on 31 July 2008 with the adoption of Security Council resolution 1828 for a further 12 months, until 31 July 2009.

UNAMID has the protection of civilians as its core mandate, but is also tasked with contributing to security for humanitarian assistance, monitoring and verifying implementation of agreements, assisting an inclusive political process, contributing to the promotion of human rights and the rule of law, and monitoring and reporting on the situation along the borders with Chad and the Central African Republic (CAR).

The mission’s headquarters is in El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur. It has further sector headquarters in El Fasher, El Geneina and Nyala, with further deployment locations throughout the three Darfur states.

At full strength, UNAMID will have almost 20,000 troops, more than 6,000 police and a significant civilian component, making it one of the largest UN peacekeeping operations in history.

However, UNAMID’s full deployment has been hampered by a lack of cooperation from the Government of Sudan, delays in the readiness of troop and police contributors to deploy, the prohibitive environment, and the immense logistical challenges inherent to Darfur.

The force on the ground as of late 2008 included units from Bangladesh, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, Gambia, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal and South Africa.

UNAMID’s composition respects concerns expressed by the Government of Sudan, maintaining a predominantly African character, while ensuring that the force is capable of fulfilling its Security Council mandate.

UNAMID continues to face shortfalls in troops and critical transport and aviation assets. The Sec-

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retary-General has led appeals to the international community to provide the mission with the capabilities it needs, especially helicopters, so that it can fulfill its mandate and live up to the expectations of the people of Darfur and the international community. In the meantime, UNAMID is doing all in its poweVr and with limited resources to provide protection to civilians in Darfur, facilitate the humanitarian aid operation, and help provide an environment in which peace can take root.

(Source: UNAMID Intranet)

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UNAMID’S Mandate

Acting under Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations, the Security Council, by its resolution 1769 of 31 July 2007 decided that UNAMID is authorized to take the necessary action, in the areas of deployment of its forces and as it deems within its capabilities in order to: i.

protect its personnel, facilities, installations and equipment, and to ensure the security and freedom of movement of its own personnel and humanitarian workers; ii. support early and effective implementation of the Darfur Peace Agreement, prevent the disruption of its implementation and armed attacks, and protect civilians, without prejudice to the responsibility of the Government of Sudan.

The Council also decided that the mandate of UNAMID shall be as set out in paragraphs 54 and 55 of the report of the Secretary-General and the Chairperson of the African Union Commission [S/2007/307/Rev.1] of 5 June 2007, namely as follows: i.

To contribute to the restoration of necessary security conditions for the safe provision of humanitarian assistance and to facilitate full humanitarian access throughout Darfur; ii. To contribute to the protection of civilian populations under imminent threat of physical violence and prevent attacks against civilians, within its capability and areas of deployment, without prejudice to the responsibility of the Government of the Sudan; iii. To monitor, observe compliance with and verify the implementation of various ceasefire agreements signed since 2004, as well as assist with the implementation of the Darfur Peace Agreement and any subsequent agreements; iv. To assist the political process in order to ensure that it is inclusive, and to support the African Union-United Nations joint mediation in its efforts to broaden and deepen commitment to the peace process; v. To contribute to a secure environment for economic reconstruction and development, as well as the sustainable return of internally displaced persons and refugees to their homes; vi. To contribute to the promotion of respect for and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms in Darfur; vii. To assist in the promotion of the rule of law in Darfur, including through support for strengthening an independent judiciary and the prison system, and assistance in the development and consolidation of the legal framework, in consultation with relevant Sudanese authorities; viii. To monitor and report on the security situation at the Sudan’s borders with Chad and the Central African Republic.

In order to achieve these broad goals, the operation’s tasks would include the following: Support for the peace process and good offices: i. To support the good offices of the African Union/United Nations Joint Special Representative for Darfur and the mediation efforts of the Special Envoys of the African Union and the United Nations; ii. To support and monitor the implementation of the Darfur Peace vvAgreement and subsequent agreements; iii. To participate in and support the major bodies established by the Darfur Peace Agreement and any subsequent agreements in the implementation of their mandate, including through the provision of technical assistance and logistical support to those bodies; iv. To facilitate the preparation and conduct of the Darfur-Darfur Dialogue and Consultation , as stipulated in the Darfur Peace Agreement; v. To assist in the preparations for the conduct of the referendums provided for in the Darfur Peace Agreement; vi. To ensure the complementary implementation of all peace agreements in the Sudan, particularly with regard to the national provisions of those agreements, and compliance with

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the Interim National Constitution; vii. To liaise with UNMIS, the African Union Liaison Office for the implementation of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement and other stakeholders to ensure complementary implementation of the mandates of UNMIS, the African Union Liaison Office for the implementation of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement and the hybrid operation in Darfur; Security: i. To promote the re-establishment of confidence, deter violence and assist in monitoring and verifying the implementation of the redeployment and disengagement provisions of the Darfur Peace Agreement, including by actively providing security and robust patrolling of redeployment and buffer zones, by monitoring the withdrawal of long-range weapons, and by deploying hybrid police, including formed police units, in areas where internally displaced persons are concentrated, in the demilitarized and buffer zones, along key routes of migration and in other vital areas, including as provided for in the Darfur Peace Agreement; ii. To monitor, investigate, report and assist the parties in resolving violations of the Darfur Peace Agreement and subsequent complementary agreements through the Ceasefire Commission and the Joint Commission; iii. To monitor, verify and promote efforts to disarm the Janjaweed and other militias; iv. To coordinate non-combat logistical support for the movements; v. To assist in the establishment of the disarmament, demobilization and
reintegration programme called for in the Darfur Peace Agreement; vi. To contribute to the creation of the necessary security conditions for the provision of humanitarian assistance and to facilitate the voluntary and sustainable return of refugees and internally displaced persons to their homes; vii. In the areas of deployment of its forces and within its capabilities, to protect the hybrid operation’s personnel, facilities, installations and equipment, to ensure the security and freedom of movement of United Nations-African Union personnel, humanitarian workers and Assessment and Evaluation Commission personnel, to prevent disruption of the implementation of the Darfur Peace Agreement by armed groups and, without prejudice to the responsibility of the Government of the Sudan, to protect civilians under imminent threat of physical violence and prevent attacks and threats against civilians; viii. To monitor through proactive patrolling the parties’ policing activities in camps for internally displaced persons, demilitarized and buffer zones and areas of control; ix. To support, in coordination with the parties, as outlined in the Darfur Peace Agreement, the establishment and training of community police in camps for internally displaced persons, to support capacity-building of the Government of the Sudan police in Darfur, in accordance with international standards of human rights and accountability, and to support the institutional development of the police of the movements; x. To support the efforts of the Government of the Sudan and of the police of the movements to maintain public order and build the capacity of Sudanese law enforcement in this regard through specialized training and joint operations; xi. To provide technical mine-action advice and coordination and demining capacity to support the Darfur Peace Agreement;

Rule of law, governance, and human rights: i. To assist in the implementation of the provisions of the Darfur Peace Agreement and any subsequent agreements relating to human rights and the rule of law and to contribute to the creation of an environment conducive to respect for human rights and the rule of law, in which all are ensured effective protection; ii. To assist all stakeholders and local government authorities, in particular in their efforts to transfer resources in an equitable manner from the federal Government to the Darfur states, and to implement reconstruction plans and existing and subsequent agreements on land UNAMID UNV - PRE ASSIGNMENT BRIEFING PACKAGE

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use and compensation issues; iii. To support the parties to the Darfur Peace Agreement in restructuring and building the capacity of the police service in Darfur, including through monitoring, training, mentoring, colocation and joint patrols; iv. To assist in promoting the rule of law, including through institution-building, and strengthening local capacities to combat impunity; v. To ensure an adequate human rights and gender presence capacity, and expertise in Darfur in order to contribute to efforts to protect and promote human rights in Darfur, with particular attention to vulnerable groups; vi. To assist in harnessing the capacity of women to participate in the peace process, including through political representation, economic empowerment and protection from genderbased violence; vii. To support the implementation of provisions included in the Darfur Peace Agreement and any subsequent agreements relating to upholding the rights of children; Humanitarian assistance: i. To facilitate the effective provision of humanitarian assistance and full access to people in need.

(Source: UNAMID Intranet) Also, for information on the Comprehensive Peace Agreement, the Darfur Peace Agreement and the role of the UN in Darfur, please see the annexes of this briefing pack.

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Mission’s HQ and locations UNAMID Headquarters is located in El Fasher, the Capital of the Northern State of Darfur. There is a Liaison Office in Khartoum, the Capital city of Sudan as well as regional offices in West Darfur (El Geneina), South Darfur (Nyala), and a sub-regional office in West of West Darfur (Zalingei).

There are also Military and Police Team Sites throughout the State of Darfur. UN Volunteers assigned to UNAMID should be prepared to be deployed anywhere within Darfur, including remote duty stations (more information is provided in Sections 7 and 8 below).

Practical Information Dress code: Tropical clothes all year, warmer clothes for cool mornings and evenings (especially in the desert).

In general, the dress code should respect the Muslim dress code. It is advisable for women, to carry a scarf at all times. Women should not wear revealing clothes and men should avoid shorts/ bermudas in public places.

Food & Drink: The staple diet is foul, a type of bean, and dura, cooked maize or millet, which are eaten with various vegetables. The hotel restaurants in Khartoum and Port Sudan serve international cuisine and there are a few Greek and Middle Eastern restaurants. The grocery stores are well-stocked with canned goods, fresh fruit, vegetables, dairy products, meat, fish and chicken.

These products however are mostly readily available everywhere. However, in some remote locations in the regions, stock may be limited. Bottled water is also readily available in almost every location. However, it is a good idea to carry bottled water at all times. Toiletry items are also readily available.

Alcohol is banned by the Islamic Sharia code. To avoid misconduct, especially in the Northern part of Sudan and the transitional areas, please request information from the UNMIS Conduct and Discipline Section.

Nightlife: The best entertainment is found in Khartoum and Omdurman, with the national theatre, music hall, cinemas, open-air and hotel entertainment. There is a sharp contrast in the regions however. Bear in mind the religious and political context in Sudan, and note the limitations of public places in terms of entertainment.

Shopping: The typically big open markets (souk) have stalls selling food, local crafts, spices, jewellery and silver. Special purchases include basketwork, gold and silver and assorted handicrafts.

Prices for imported products are very high and in the traditional shops it is always good to bargain. Be aware that the purchase of ivory and ivory is illegal.

Shopping hours: Saturday to Thursday 08:00-13:30 and 17:30-20:00. On Friday a few some shops stay opened.

Special Events: Events celebrated in Sudan and Darfur typically Muslim feasts and holy days. Marriage celebrations too very popular and well attended. The following is a selection of special events celebrated annually in Sudan: • • •

Eid al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice).

September-October - Ramadan.

October - Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan).

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• • • •

Country Code: 249 IDD: International Direct Dialing is available Outgoing Code: International calls must go through the operator.

Mobile phones can be purchased in Khartoum, all the big town centers in Darfur.

You can use UN phones to make personal international calls using personal pin code allocated to you by the Mission. Charges are quite reasonable, e.g. Western Europe = 3 Eurocents / minute, Asia / Africa = 30 Eurocents / minute.

Working hours: Working hours in Darfur are from 08:00 -16:00 Sunday through Thursday, as per local custom. However, international staff, including UN Volunteers, can expect to work after hours and on weekends.

Medical Services: There are hospitals and clinics throughout Darfur. However all UNAMID staff are first treated in the Mission’s medical facilities, which are in all of the regional headquarters and offices. Referrals to local medical facilities are sometime necessary depending on the cases as determined by the medical staff.

Internet: Internet facilities are available in most offices. Computers are also available in the UNV Support Office for occasional use. Local internet facilities are also available via mobile USB modem and are quite reliable and affordable.

Electricity: Electricity in Darfur and Sudan is 230 Volts, alternating at 50 cycles per second. If you travel to Sudan with a device that does not accept 230 Volts at 50 Hertz, you will need a voltage converter. Outlets in Darfur generally accept 2 types of plugs: two round pins (“European type”) and three pins (“UK type”): However, adapters are usually available on the local market.

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Pre-travel to Sudan (Khartoum) 1. Visas All UNVs travelling to Darfur, Sudan must have the entry visa (“Entry visa upon arrival”). granted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs here in Sudan before commencing their travel to Khartoum. It is advisable not to make any arrangement regarding the travel to Sudan until the UNAMID UNV Office notifies candidates and country offices through UNVHQ in Bonn regarding the visa being granted by the Sudanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). All entry visas are requested by UNAMID on the behalf of the UNV Office from the Sudanese MOFA. In order to do that in the shortest time possible, the UNV candidate must provide, as soon as possible, to the UNVHQ through the local recruiting office a copy of his/her valid passport (valid for at least 6 months after the estimated arrival date). As soon as the visa is granted, UNAMID will, through the UNVHQ in Bonn provide the UNV Volunteer with the copy of a note Verbale, making reference to the visa request which has been granted. The copy of the visa enables the UNV candidate to board a plane to Sudan and obtain the entry visa at the International Airport of Khartoum with the support of the UNAMID Protocol Assistant. This can be arranged only when the UNV Support Office has been advised, at least two days prior to the travel, of the complete itinerary (arrival date, time, airline etc.).

Please note that Egypt Air does not recognize the copy of the “visa upon arrival”, so you are strongly advised, to avoid this airline. In case this is not possible, you need to notify the UNAMID UNV Support Office well in advance. Please note that visas are free of charge to all international staff members, including UNV Volunteers, assigned to UNAMID.

2. Security Clearance All UNV Volunteers must have UN security clearance before commencing travel to Sudan. All requests for security clearance are made by the UNV Support Office, provided that the candidate, the UNV HQ or the Country Office Team have communicated itinerary details at least 2 or 3 days prior to travel. The Security Clearance will then be sent by e-mail to the UNVHQ for release to the candidate. Please note that non-compliance with this procedure may invalidate the insurance coverage which requires each Volunteer to complete the UN Basic Security Training course, have a valid security clearance and be compliant with the Minimum Operating Security Standards (MOSS).

3. Online Security Training UNV candidates are strongly advised to complete the online test for the “UN Basic Security in the Field Training Course” (http://dss.un.org/bsitf/) and bring a copy of the certificate with him/her to Sudan. Having this certificate is a condition for each staff member to start the check-in process in UNAMID. If the test is not done prior to departure, the candidate can take it upon arrival, as part of the check-in process.

4. Medical Clearance Staff members should complete all medical formalities before travelling and bring with them sufficient and appropriate medical supplies, as recommended by the UN medical services or a medical practitioner. This should include prophylactic malaria treatment. Staff members should also ensure that they have the necessary vaccinations prior to their arrival, as vaccination facilities may be limited in Khartoum and Darfur. Recommended vaccinations are: • • •

Hepatitis A and B Tetanus/Diphtheria Poliomyelitis UNAMID UNV - PRE ASSIGNMENT BRIEFING PACKAGE

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Tetravalent Meningitis Typhoid Yellow fever (this is a must for Sudan)

However, please seek advice from your medical doctor or UN medical services.

5. Money Due to the particular situation in Sudan, neither credit cards nor traveller’s cheques are acceptable for payment. It is therefore recommended that UNV Volunteers bring sufficient cash in US Dollars or Euros (at least, the equivalent of $500.00), to pay for their accommodation, food and other expenses upon arrival. It will take a few days to receive the settling-in entitlements.

6. Documents to bring to Sudan • • • • • • •

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National Passport with valid visa Copy of the Offer of Volunteer Assignment fax (VAC) If feasible, copy of the security certificate proving completion of the UN Basic Security in the Field Training 4 passport size photographs Driver’s license, if available Certified copies of Marriage Certificate, Children/s Birth Certificates (if applicable) Additional ID/passport sized photos, to be used for other documents when in Sudan (optional).

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Arrival in Khartoum 1. Flight Arrival UNAMID/UNV Support Office must be informed by UNV Headquarters, the country office or the UNV candidate regarding the confirmed flight details to Sudan, at least 3 days prior to your arrival in Khartoum.

2. Airport Details Khartoum airport is located close to the centre of the city. The domestic and international airports are within the same perimeter, with 3 different terminals for international arrivals, departures and domestic flights. Both checked in and hand luggage is checked at the airport. It is not advisable to carry alcohol products, as it is forbidden in Sudan according to the Sharia code.

3. Arrival Procedures The time frame from the moment you land in Khartoum until you reach your accommodation ranges between 1 to 4 hours. Passengers are transported by bus from the airplane to the arrival hall. UNV Volunteers need to fill out the arrival immigration form provided, and then show their passports to the immigration desk. UNV volunteers who have been granted a “visa upon arrival� will be assisted by the UNAMID Protocol designated person, who waits for all newly arrived staff before the immigration desk.

Once through immigration, luggage can be collected. Luggage porters can assist with trolleys and charges are from USD 1 to 3 for such service. From the luggage collection point, continue to the customs and luggage X-ray screening area. Small yellow stickers are put on your bags prior to proceeding to the final checkpoint, passing the duty free area, to exit the airport building.

Outside of the airport, under usual circumstances (i.e. your flight details being communicated on time, and no unforeseen event taking place), you will be picked-up by a representative of the UNV Support Office. Note: arrival on weekends (Fridays and Saturdays) is not recommended. If you are travelling with Egypt Air, you must advise us at least three days before the flight (excluding Fridays) as Egypt Air does not accept the Entry Visa in copy for boarding their flights. It is recommended to avoid this airline.

4. Transport from the Airport Transport will be arranged by the UNV Support Office staff member, who will be waiting at the airport (unless notified otherwise). This person will be standing near the exit door of the airport building, displaying a sign with your name or UNV and will take you to the designated Hotel or Guest House in Khartoum. If for any reason, there is nobody picking you up, you should contact any of the UNV Office staff members whose contact details are provide in the table at page. Generally however, UNV Volunteers are met inside the terminal by an UNMAMID Protocol Assistant and by a member of the UNV Support Office.

5. Accommodation in Khartoum To facilitate your arrival in-country, the UNV Support Office in Khartoum will make arrangements in order to provide you with accommodation. See below a list of Hotels and Guest Houses with prices varying from $16.00 to $100.00+. It is your choice to decide how much you will like spend and therefore what quality of accommodation and service. You will be required to stay in KharUNAMID UNV - PRE ASSIGNMENT BRIEFING PACKAGE

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toum for 2 days (maximum 3 days) to complete official check-in processes before travelling to El Fasher in Darfur. Please note that in the case of a Guesthouse you must settle your bill in cash.

6. Transport from the Accommodation to UNMIS Headquarters/UNAMID Laision Office.

In order to reach the UNMIS compound contact the Dispatch Office at 0912170058 to arrange for an UNMIS duty driver to pick you up at the Hotel or Guest House and take you to HQ, or contact the UNV Support Office at the mobile phone numbers provided above. UNMIS HQ is located in the 08 Compound, also called “the new Headquarters�. You should identify yourself as a United Nations Volunteer.

Transfer to El Fasher, Darfur

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n completion of all arrival and check-in formalities at the Khartoum Liaison Office which will include Darfur security briefing and the issuing of UNAMID ID Card, you will travel to El Fasher, Darfur, where UNAMID Headquarters are located. The UNV Support Office in Khartoum will complete all UNAMID travel documentation requirements and arrange your movement to the airport for the travel.

On arrival in El Fasher, you will be met at the luggage claim area by a member of the Support Office staff in El Fasher and transport to the Support Office to meet the Programme Manager and the rest of the team.

In the El Fasher UNV Support Office, you will be given an administrative briefing, undergo additional documentation and open a bank account. The Office will process your registration for the week long Induction and Security training which is mandatory for all new arrival before joining your Section/Unit to begin real work.

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Life in regional offices Accommodation in the Regional Offices Approximately 60% (?) of UN Volunteers will be based in regional offices throughout Darfur. The living conditions in the regions are variable. In the Darfur states, initially the majority of UN Volunteers are staying in basic UN run “guest houses” which provide very basic facilities, where generally-speaking, same-sex sharing of rooms is the rule. Once private accommodation is found, it must be UN MORSS compliant (Minimum Operating Residential Security Standards). During your induction briefings additional information will be given.

Items to bring for deployment to the regions: • •

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During the rainy season from August to November, you need to have boots with you. During the dry season bring light, cool, cotton-type clothes.

Women should cover themselves; women in Darfur and in Sudan in general wear long skirts or dresses, light shirts with long sleeves, sometimes with a cotton T-shirt. Women in Sudan also wear long pants and usually cover their necks. If you are female, it is advisable to carry a scarf with you at all times.

Flip flops for the shower.

Bath towels.

Fully covering pyjamas or a long dressing robe as bathrooms are outside the compound.

Sleeping bag. (?)

Mosquito net.

A medical kit containing the basics (for pains, flu, mosquito bites or insect bites, hydrating formula etc).

Basics for your personal hygiene (soap, toothpaste and other).

Cleansing gel or cleansing wipes (there is sometimes a shortage of water for a couple of days). ?

In some areas, there is no toilet paper available. So bring some with you or carry with you wet wipes.

Water purification tablets.

Lots of sunscreen protection.

Sunglasses.

Hat or cap.

Books, long wave radio, personal CD player, card games, chess/backgammon etc.

Torch/flashlight And don’t forget to carry a bottle of water at all times…!!!!

Note: Most of the items listed above (the most common ones) can be bought in Khartoum, which will be your city of arrival and where you stay during the Check-In process. They are imported products therefore probably significantly more expensive than in your country. It is therefore up to you to decide whether to bring them along or buy them here.

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Rules of Conduct for International UNV

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UNV volunteers will ensure that they undertake their duties and conduct themselves in the interest of the United Nations and the government they are serving.

In accordance with the ideals of volunteer service, UNV volunteers will be guided by the motivation to devote their knowledge and abilities without regard to financial benefit, towards realizing the broad objectives lay down by the United Nations Charter for the economic and social advancement of humanity.

UNV volunteers and their dependants will not engage in any activity that is detrimental to the proper performance of the UNV volunteer’s duties.

UNV volunteers will not accept any supplementary payment from a government or any other source, even when intended to cover the performance of any additional duties or activities.

Although UNV volunteers are not expected to relinquish national sentiments or political and religious convictions, they will not engage in any political activity that may be inconsistent with the independence and impartiality required of persons affiliated with the United Nations.

UNV volunteers will avoid any action and, in particular, any public statement, which may adversely reflect on their international status as UNV volunteers.

During their assignment, UNV volunteers will not undertake any of the following except in the normal course of official duties or with prior explicit approval of the UNV Executive Coordinator and/or the UNDP Resident Representative: they will not issue statements to the press or other agencies of public information; release visual information for publication; submit articles, books or other material for publication or take part in mass communication activities such as film, radio or television productions which are in any way related to project activities or interests of the United Nations or the host country.

UNV volunteers will, at all times, respect the laws, moral codes, and traditions prevailing in the host country.

During their assignment, UNV volunteers will neither seek nor accept instructions from any government or from any other authority external to the UN system, including representatives of Co-operating Organisations. UNV volunteers assigned to host governments, institutions, departments or NGOs, however, will receive work related instructions from designated officials, as appropriate.

UNV volunteers are not authorised to accept or undertake outside jobs during their UNV assignments. The Executive Co-ordinator may approve non-remunerative service for the UNV volunteers together with their assignments in consultation with UNDP Resident Representative, host government, executing agency, Co-operating Organization or NGO, as appropriate. However, dependants of the UNV volunteers may accept employment in accordance with the regulations of the host country.

Please also refer to the Conditions of Service for international UNV volunteers.

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Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA)

In his bulletin of 9 October 2003 on Special Measures for Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Sexual Abuse (ST/SGB/2003/13), the Secretary-General clearly defines sexual exploitation and sexual abuse (SEA) and the standards of conduct expected of all staff to protect local populations from any negative impact from the presence of the United Nations.

Sexual exploitation is defined as exchanging money, shelter, food or other goods for sex or sexual favours from someone in a vulnerable position.

Sexual abuse is defined as threatening or forcing someone to have sex or provide sexual favours under unequal or forced conditions.

The following are specifically prohibited: • Sexual activity with anyone under the age of 18 is prohibited regardless of consent or age of majority locally. Mistaken belief in the age of a child is not a defence.

• Purchasing sexual acts with money, employment, goods or services is prohibited.

• Exchanging humanitarian assistance e.g. food rations, shelter supplies for sexual acts is prohibited.

• Any forced, coercive or degrading sexual acts are prohibited.

We look forward to welcoming you to DAFUR and to UNAMID Have a safe trip!

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Annex I Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) - SUDAN The background to Sudan’s CPA:

F

or all but 11 of the 48 years since its independence in 1956, Sudan has been engulfed in civil conflict. The conflict between the North and the South erupted one year before Sudan gained its independence in 1955.

The war that the Government of Sudan and the Sudan’s People Liberation Movement/Army (SPLAM/A) recently ended, erupted in 1983, following the breakdown of the 1972 Addis Ababa Agreement. The root causes which propelled the war included disputes over resources, power, the role of religion in the state and self-determination.

The ensuing 21-year conflict devastated a significant part of Africa’s largest country and deprived the rest of stability, growth and development. The Sudanese people have paid a terrible price.

More than two million people died, four million were uprooted and some 600,000 people sought shelter beyond Sudan’s borders as refugees.

The nature and size of the country’s problems have frequently overflowed into neighbouring countries and brought misery and insecurity to the region.

Over the long years of war, there was a plethora of attempts by various external actors, including neighbouring States, concerned donors and other States, as well as the parties themselves, to bring the conflict to an end. However, the immense complexities of the war and the lack of political will prevented its earlier resolution.

In 1993, the Heads of State of the Intergovernmental Authority on Drought and Development (IGADD) became involved in the latest initiative to bring the parties together. This was the beginning of a long process that has led to the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement in 2005.

The United Nations has closely followed and supported the regional peace initiative under the auspices of the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD). The Secretary-General’s Special Adviser, Mr. Mohamed Sahnoun, and other senior officials represented the UN at summit meetings of the IGAD countries, and carried out consultations with regional governments and organizations in support of the peace process. They also took part in meetings of the IGAD-Partners Forum, composed of donor countries and organizations supporting the IGAD peace process and assisting the regional organization to enhance its capacity in several areas.

The Six Agreements: Under the mediation of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the Government of the Sudan and the SPLM/A signed a series of six agreements: The Protocol of Machakos: Signed in Machakos, Kenya, on 20 July 2002, in which the parties agreed on a broad framework, setting forth the principles of governance, the transitional process and the structures of government as well as on the right to self-determination for the people of South Sudan, and on state and religion.

The Protocol on security arrangements: Signed in Naivasha, Kenya, on 25 September 2003 The Protocol on wealth-sharing: Signed in Naivasha, Kenya, on 7 January 2004 The Protocol on Power-sharing: Signed in Naivasha, Kenya, on 26 May 2004 The Protocol on the resolution of conflict in southern Kordofan/Nuba Mountains and the Blue Nile States: Signed in Naivasha, Kenya, on 26 May 2004

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The Protocol on the resolution of conflict in Abyei: Signed in Naivasha, Kenya, on 26 May 2004 Three agreements needed to be finalized in order to achieve a comprehensive peace accord: one on permanent cease-fire arrangements, one on the implementation of all Protocols signed and the one yet to be concluded on permanent cease-fire arrangements and, one on the International/Regional Guarantees.

The negotiations between the parties on Permanent Cease-Fire protocol were stalled during the round of talks, held in Naivasha in July 2004. The parties could not reach agreement on a number of issues, mainly: the redeployment of forces in eastern Sudan and the financing of the SPLM/A. Under sustained pressure from the international community, the UN Security Council, the UN Secretary-General and his Special Representative for the Sudan, the African Union and the IGAD, the parties agreed to resume the peace talks in Nairobi, on 7 October, 2004.

The talks resumed with high level discussions between the First Vice-President Ali Osman Taha and the Chairman of the SPLM/A, John Garang.

On 16 October, the two leaders issued a joint press statement in which they declared that issues discussed and resolved during the negotiations on a Permanent Cease-Fire arrangement during the pre-interim and interim period included the following: • • • •

The Joint/Integrated Units (JIUs) in Eastern Sudan; Establishment of JIUs Service Arms; Collaborative approach of handling other armed groups; Other aspects of permanent cease-fire including the role of United Nations Peace Support Mission.

The parties also agreed that: The technical committee on the ceasefire negotiations would continue to discuss any remaining issues including the funding of the armed forces and timing of incorporating and integrating other armed groups into respective structures of the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) and Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army (SPLM/A); The technical committee on Implementation Modalities and International/Regional Guarantees would immediately commence its work; The First Vice-President and the Chairman of the SPLM/A would return after the month of Ramadan to finalize the Comprehensive Peace Agreement on a date to be communicated by the parties by the IGAD Secretariat.

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Annex II Darfur Peace Agreement (DPA)

T

he Darfur Peace Agreement, signed May 5, 2006, by the largest rebel group, the Sudan Liberation Movement, led by Mini Menawi, and the Sudanese Government, is an important achievement for peace in Darfur. It is a fair agreement that addresses the long-standing marginalization of Darfur, and charts a path for lasting peace for the innocent victims of the crisis.

The agreement requires that the Sudanese Government of National Unity complete verifiable disarmament and demobilization of Janjaweed militia by mid-October 2006 and places restrictions on the movements of the Popular Defense Forces and requires their downsizing. A detailed sequencing and phasing schedule ensures that the African Union certifies that Janjaweed and other armed militia have been disarmed before rebel forces assemble and prepare for their own disarmament and demobilization. The agreement stipulates that 4,000 former combatants be integrated into the Sudanese Armed Forces, 1,000 be integrated into the police forces, and 3,000 be supported through education and training programs. The former combatants will be integrated in groups of 100-150 and will comprise 33 percent of each integrated battalion.

Democratic processes have been laid out for the people of Darfur to choose their leaders and determine their status as a region. Rebel signatories of the agreement were awarded the 4th highest position in the Sudanese Government of National Unity: Senior Assistant to the President and Chairperson of the newly established Transitional Darfur Regional Authority (TDRA).

The TDRA will be responsible for implementation of the peace agreement in Darfur and the rebel movements will have effective control of that body. In July 2010, a popular referendum will be held to decide whether to establish Darfur as a unitary region with a single government. For the three-year period prior to elections, the agreement grants the rebel movements twelve seats in the National Assembly in Khartoum, 21 seats in each of the Darfur State legislatures, one State Governor and two Deputy State Governors in Darfur, senior positions in State Ministries, and key posts in local governments.

The accord commits the international community to holding a donors’ conference to pledge additional funds for Darfur, and invites the TDRA Chairperson to present to that conference a summary of needs and priorities. The GNU is mandated to contribute $300 million initially and then $200 million/year for the next two years to rebuild the region. A Joint Assessment Mission – modeled on the one done for Southern reconstruction after the Comprehensive (North-South) Peace Agreement – will be established to determine the specific reconstruction and development needs of Darfur.

Buffer zones are to be established around camps for internally displaced persons and humanitarian assistance corridors, and a commission has been created to work with the United Nations to help refugees and displaced persons return to their homes. The agreement provides that the Sudanese Government will provide $30 million in compensation to victims of the conflict.

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Highlights of Darfur Peace Agreement Security Arrangements •

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Requires complete, verifiable disarmament of Janjaweed militia by mid-October, 2006.

Provides milestones such as the containment of Janjaweed and other armed militias into specific restricted areas prior to disarmament, removal of heavy weapons, specific assurances of security in assembly areas of the rebel movements and other steps to contain, reduce, and ultimately eliminate the threat posed by such forces.

Places restrictions on the movements of the Popular Defence Forces and requires their downsizing.

A detailed sequencing and phasing schedule ensures that Janjaweed and other armed militia will be disarmed before rebel forces assemble and prepare for their own disarmament and demobilization. African Union peacekeepers will inspect and certify that areas are safe and secure prior to rebel assembly.

Sudanese government must punish ceasefire violations by Janjaweed and other armed militia including the PDF, including through immediate disarmament and demobilization.

Establishes buffer zones around IDP camps and humanitarian assistance corridors, into which rebel forces and Sudanese Armed Forces cannot go.

Defines the principles for integration of the rebel forces into the Sudanese Armed Forces and police.

4,000 former combatants will be integrated into the army.

1,000 former combatants will be integrated into the police.

3,000 will be supported through education and training programs to assist in the civilian reconstruction and development of Darfur.

Provides for strong rebel forces representation in the leadership positions (officers and commanders) of the Sudanese Armed Forces.

Requires the Sudanese Government of National Unity to review security institutions, especially paramilitary forces, and to ensure professionalism, effectiveness, and a focus on the rule of law.

Power Sharing • • • • • • • • • • •

Gives the rebel movements the 4th highest position in the Sudanese Government of National Unity; Senior Assistant to the President and Chairperson of the Transitional Darfur Regional Authority.

Clearly establishes the Senior Assistant and Chairperson of the TDRA as the dominant political leader in Darfur, and in Khartoum as the senior Darfurian representative in the Government of National Unity.

Establishes democratic processes for the people of Darfur to choose their leaders and determine their status as a region.

A popular referendum by July 2010 to decide whether to establish Darfur as a unitary region with a single government.

Elections at every level of government shall be held not later than July 2009, in accordance with the Interim National Constitution.

For the three-year period prior to elections: Grants the rebel movement chairmanship and control (at least 8 of 10 seats) in the Transitional Darfur Regional Authority. This body is responsible for implementation of the peace agreement in Darfur.

Allocates to the rebel movements twelve seats in the National Assembly in Khartoum.

Allocates to the rebel movement twenty-one seats in each of the Darfur State legislatures.

Awards to the rebel movements one State Governor of Darfur, and two Deputy State Governors.

Allocates to the rebel movements senior positions in State Ministries.

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•

Guarantees to the rebel movement key posts in local governments.

Wealth Sharing • • • • • •

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Creates fund for Darfur Reconstruction and Development o GNU will contribute $300 million initially and then $200 million/year for 2 additional years 20 Calls for a Joint Assessment Mission - modelled on the one done for Southern reconstruction after the Comprehensive (North-South) Peace Agreement - to determine the specific reconstruction and development needs of Darfur.

Commits the international community to holding a donors conference to pledge additional funds for Darfur, and invites the Chairperson of the TDRA to present to that conference a summary of needs and priorities.

Establishes a commission to work with the United Nations to help refugees and displaced persons return to their homes.

Creates a commission to provide compensation to victims of the conflict.

Creates transparent process to track the flow of grants and monies from Khartoum into Darfur. 21

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inspiration in action

A UNV SUPPORT OFFICE PUBLICATION

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UNITED NATIONS - AFRICAN UNION MISSION IN DARFUR UNAMID UNV - PRE ASSIGNMENT BRIEFING PACKAGE