22 September 2010 - The January 2011 South Sudan referendum was the subject of yesterday’s monthly forum of state civil society organizations convened by UNAMID’s Civil Affairs section in Nyala, South Darfur.

The twenty-five participants represented native administrations, youth, women and nomadic groups. They discussed key concerns related to the impact of the referendum on South Darfur, including potential conflicts along the border, possible population displacement and the impact on livelihoods in Darfur. Many also voiced concern that the Darfur peace process would be overshadowed.

A follow-up to the forum has been planned, where strategies to address these issues can be planned.