Previous International Action

While the crisis in northern Uganda is still not the political priority that it should be for our policymakers, there has been some significant progress in recent years in terms of the attention it is receiving in our halls of government. Both the United States government and United Nations have recently addressed the crisis in public statements and resolutions.

Most recent U.S. action:

Top U.S. Africa diplomat: Peace process is "critically important"

In late November, speaking before Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice's visit to the region, the top U.S. diplomat for Africa Jendayi Frazer said the Juba peace process is "critically important especially for bringing reconciliation to northern Uganda."

Frazer's Kampala Visit (September 2007)

In a September visit to Uganda, Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Jendayi Frazer said that the U.S. supports the Juba peace process. However, Frazer emphasized the need for strict timelines and said the U.S. would support efforts to "mop up" the rebels if talks fail. The same message was reiterated by Frazer at a Senate briefing on the Great Lakes conflicts in October.

Most recent UN action:

Security Council Extends Mandate of UN Special Envoy Chissano

In December 2007 the Security Council extended the mandate of UN Special Envoy for the LRA-affected areas Joaquim Chissano through December 31st, 2008. Chissano's office was also upgraded from a temporary liaison office to a special political mission.

Press Statement by the President of the Security Council

On November 13, 2007, the President of the Security Council issued a press statement on behalf of the Council in which it expressed support for the ongoing Juba peace process and urged continued improvement in humanitarian conditions in northern Uganda. It also reiterated the Council's desire that those responsible for serious violations of human rights and international humanitarian law be brought to justice. The press statement, issued after a briefing to the Council by UN Special Envoy Joaquim Chissano, also expressed strong support for his facilitation role in the peace process.