15 Weird Laws in Sudan

Unusual Laws in Sudan

Sudan, like many countries around the world, has its fair share of weird laws that may leave you scratching your head. Let’s take a look at two unusual laws in Sudan: the genital mutilation ban and the implementation of Sharia law.

Genital Mutilation Ban

In 2020, Sudan took a significant step forward by banning the practice of genital mutilation. This practice, also known as female genital cutting or female circumcision, involves the partial or total removal of external female genitalia for non-medical reasons. The ban aims to protect the rights and well-being of women and girls, as well as promote gender equality.

Under the new law, individuals who perform genital mutilation can face up to three years in prison and a fine (Wikipedia). This move is a positive development in Sudan’s efforts to combat harmful traditional practices and protect the rights of women and girls.

Implementation of Sharia Law

Sudan has a complex history with the implementation of Sharia law. Since 1983, there have been ongoing attempts to impose Islamic Sharia law as the national law of Sudan. This policy, aimed at “Islamicizing” the country, has led to various conflicts and civil unrest (PBS Frontline).

Sharia law is derived from Islamic religious principles and covers a wide range of aspects, including personal and family matters, criminal law, and economic transactions. While the implementation of Sharia law has faced criticism and controversy, it remains an integral part of Sudan’s legal system.

It’s important to note that the implementation of Sharia law has varying interpretations and applications across different regions of Sudan. The extent to which it influences daily life and governance can differ based on factors such as geographical location and cultural practices.

While these laws may seem unusual from an outsider’s perspective, they reflect the unique legal and cultural landscape of Sudan. It’s always fascinating to explore the different legal systems and their impact on society in various countries around the world.

Controversial Penal Code

Sudan has been no stranger to controversy when it comes to its penal code. The implementation of Islamic sharia law as the national law since 1983 has led to various conflicts and civil unrest. Two notable aspects of the penal code that have garnered significant attention are amputations and stoning.

Amputations and Stoning

In 1991, the Sudanese government imposed a penal code that included harsh punishments such as amputations and stoning (PBS Frontline). These forms of punishment are deeply controversial and have been widely criticized by human rights organizations and the international community.

Amputations, often carried out as a form of punishment for theft, involve the deliberate removal of a person’s limbs as a means of retribution. This practice has drawn widespread condemnation due to its inhumane nature and violation of human rights.

Stoning, on the other hand, is a method of execution where an individual is subjected to a barrage of stones until they succumb to their injuries. This form of punishment is typically reserved for offenses such as adultery. The act of stoning is considered a brutal and barbaric form of capital punishment, eliciting outrage from human rights advocates.

Impact of Civil War

The civil war in Sudan, which has been ongoing since 1983, has had a profound impact on the country and its people. The conflict has resulted in over 4 million people being displaced and an estimated 2 million deaths, with both government and opposition groups being accused of atrocities (PBS Frontline).

One of the most devastating consequences of the civil war has been the violence in the region of Darfur since 2003. This violence has resulted in an estimated 50,000 to 80,000 deaths and displaced 1.2 million to 2 million people. The survivors of the conflict have faced severe shortages of food and clean water, leading to a humanitarian crisis (PBS Frontline).

The controversial penal code and the ongoing civil war have contributed to Sudan’s reputation for human rights violations and instability. It is important to recognize the impact of these issues on the lives of Sudanese people and to advocate for justice, peace, and respect for human rights.

For more unusual laws from around the world, check out our article on weird laws around the world.

Public Order Law Reforms

In Sudan, the public order law used to dictate every aspect of people’s everyday lives, particularly impacting women. However, wide-scale legal reforms in 2020 repealed the law, bringing significant changes to the country’s legal landscape. Let’s explore the reforms and their implications, particularly in relation to discrimination against women and the role of the public order police.

Discrimination Against Women

The public order law in Sudan was notorious for discriminating against women and criminalizing their dress code and behavior in both private and public spaces. It was used as a means to control and intimidate women, restricting their freedom and autonomy. However, with the legal reforms, these discriminatory provisions have been abolished, signaling a positive step towards gender equality.

The repeal of the public order law is a significant milestone in Sudan’s journey towards promoting women’s rights and dismantling oppressive practices. It allows women to exercise their agency, make choices about their appearance, and engage in activities without fear of legal repercussions. This change is crucial in fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.

Role of Public Order Police

The public order establishment in Sudan was a multi-million-dollar infrastructure that brought funds to the state and provided a source of income for police officers. Public order courts imposed fines, resulting in substantial revenue generation, approximately 135 million Sudanese Pounds per year. However, despite the reforms, the public order police continue to exert control and intimidate individuals, especially women.

The public order police crack down on women in the informal sector, migrant workers, and informal alcohol sellers. While the law allows non-Muslims to consume alcohol, it bans Muslims from consuming and selling alcohol. This policy puts alcohol sellers at fault if they fail to ask their clients about their religion, creating a situation of vulnerability and potential exploitation (CMI).

Moreover, there are concerns about the disparity in the enforcement of the law. The wealthy individuals in Sudan who advocate for the return of the public order understand the system and have co-opted it to sustain their lifestyle. They often have greater immunity compared to migrants and other Sudanese individuals due to their class and ethnic privilege (CMI).

While the reforms have brought significant positive changes, there is still work to be done to address the systemic issues and ensure equal treatment under the law. Sudan continues to navigate the complexities of enforcing the reforms and promoting a more just and inclusive society.

For more weird laws from around the world, check out our article on weird laws around the world.

Internet Censorship Laws

Sudan has been known for its strict internet censorship laws, which have a significant impact on the freedom of expression and access to information in the country. In this section, we will explore two aspects of internet censorship laws in Sudan: blocking news websites and cybercrime legislation.

Blocking News Websites

Sudanese authorities have taken measures to block more than 30 local news websites as a means of suppressing dissent and controlling the flow of information. These actions severely undermine the right to expression and access to information, particularly in the lead-up to protests demanding government accountability (CIPESA).

By blocking news websites, the Sudanese government restricts citizens’ ability to obtain diverse perspectives and stay informed about local and international events. This form of internet censorship limits the public’s access to independent journalism and hampers the development of an open and pluralistic society.

Cybercrime Legislation

In 2020, Sudan introduced a cybercrime law that has been used to suppress dissent and silence activists. Under this law, publishing “lies” and “fake news” online can be punished with heavy penalties, including imprisonment, flogging, or both. The military has utilized this legislation to target critical state officials and activists, stifling their voices and limiting their ability to express their opinions.

The cybercrime law not only curtails freedom of speech but also creates a climate of fear and self-censorship among internet users in Sudan. The vague and broad language of the law leaves room for abuse and allows authorities to prosecute individuals based on subjective interpretations of what constitutes “lies” or “fake news.”

It is important to note that internet censorship and the cybercrime law in Sudan are often implemented by the military to maintain control and suppress dissenting voices. These measures have a chilling effect on freedom of expression and hamper the development of a vibrant and open online space.

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Table: Internet Shutdown Incidents in Sudan

Figures courtesy CIPESA

Internet shutdowns in Sudan have had significant economic implications and are often used to suppress protests and control the flow of information. These disruptions hinder citizens’ ability to communicate, access vital services, and exercise their rights to freedom of expression and assembly. Fortunately, some shutdowns have been challenged and halted through court intervention.

National Security Law Amendments

The National Security Law Amendments in Sudan have brought about significant changes in the realm of national security and surveillance. Two key aspects of these amendments are the expansion of intelligence service powers and the imposition of press and publications restrictions.

Intelligence Service Powers

In 2020, Sudan enacted the National Security Law Amendment, granting the Sudanese General Intelligence Service extensive powers. According to CIPESA, this amendment allows intelligence service personnel to request information, data, documents, or items from anyone without the need for a court order. Such provisions have raised concerns regarding citizens’ privacy rights.

The broad authority given to the intelligence service to access personal information without judicial oversight has drawn criticism for its potential infringement on civil liberties. The implementation of this law has raised questions about the balance between national security and individual privacy.

Press and Publications Restrictions

The Press and Publications Law of 2009 in Sudan has been a subject of controversy due to its repressive provisions. According to CIPESA, this law has been invoked to restrict press freedom and silence critical voices in Sudan.

The Press and Publications Law enables authorities to impose restrictions on media outlets, leading to the suspension of newspapers and limitations on journalistic activities. In August, this law was used to suspend Alitibaha and Alsayha newspapers, further raising concerns about the freedom of the press in Sudan.

These press and publications restrictions have been viewed as a means to control the flow of information and limit dissenting voices. The impact of these restrictions on freedom of expression and the press in Sudan has been widely criticized both domestically and internationally.

The National Security Law Amendments, with their expansion of intelligence service powers and press and publications restrictions, have had significant implications for civil liberties and freedom of expression in Sudan. The balance between national security and individual rights continues to be a subject of debate and scrutiny.

To explore more weird laws around the world, check out our article on weird laws around the world.

Internet Shutdown Incidents

In Sudan, the frequent occurrence of internet shutdowns has had significant implications, both economically and in terms of protests against the government’s actions. Over the past three years, Sudan has experienced multiple internet shutdowns, primarily implemented to suppress public protests and dissent against the country’s governance. These shutdowns have resulted in various consequences, including economic setbacks and disruptions in the freedom of expression.

Economic Implications

The internet has become an integral part of our daily lives, playing a crucial role in business, communication, and access to information. Therefore, when the internet is shut down, it severely impacts various economic sectors and activities. Sudan has witnessed six internet shutdowns in the last three years, with one of the longest disruptions lasting 37 days in 2019 (CIPESA). These shutdowns have hindered online businesses, e-commerce operations, and other digital services, leading to financial losses and hindrances in economic growth.

Moreover, the internet shutdowns have affected the livelihoods of individuals who depend on online platforms for their income. Freelancers, digital entrepreneurs, and those engaged in remote work have faced challenges in carrying out their professional activities, resulting in income instability and financial hardships.

Impact on Protests

Internet shutdowns in Sudan have been primarily employed to suppress public protests and dissent. These shutdowns aim to limit communication, hinder the organization of protests, and restrict the sharing of information and videos documenting the events. The longest internet disruption in Sudan’s history lasted 37 days in 2019 and resulted in over 100 protesters being killed during protests. Another shutdown, initiated on October 25, 2021, and lasting 25 days, was ended by a court order on November 11, following a coup.

These internet shutdowns have hindered the organization and coordination of protests, making it more challenging for individuals to mobilize and express their grievances against the government. By limiting access to information and online platforms, the shutdowns have sought to control the flow of information and impede the dissemination of news and images related to protests.

However, despite the attempts to suppress protests through internet disruptions, Sudanese citizens have shown resilience and determination, utilizing alternative means of communication and organizing offline activities to voice their concerns.

The frequent internet shutdowns in Sudan, their economic implications, and their impact on protests highlight the importance of upholding freedom of expression and access to information in a democratic society. The disruption of internet services hampers social, economic, and political progress, making it crucial to advocate for the protection of digital rights and the elimination of barriers to communication.