July 13, 2026, 4:55 p.mJuly 13, 2026, 4:55 p.m
The EU has imposed a gold embargo in view of the brutal civil war in Sudan. The precious metal has become a central source of income with which the conflict is being financed, the Council of Member States announced after the foreign ministers’ sanctions decision. By restricting the trade in Sudanese gold and restricting access to chemicals needed for mining and extraction, the aim is to reduce the resources available to those responsible for violence.
Accordingly, the purchase, import and transfer of gold originating in the country in Northeast Africa will be prohibited in the future. In addition, the sale, delivery, transfer or export of mercury and cyanide to Sudan is prohibited. These chemicals are used extensively in gold mining and extraction. Both measures are supplemented by bans in connection with corresponding services. This includes technical support, placement services and financial aid.
A bowl containing gold-bearing sediment and heavy mineral concentrate in Dalago Mahas in the northern state of Sudan.Image: keystone
UN fears new wave of atrocities
In Sudan, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) are fighting against the RSF (Rapid Support Forces) militia. The conflict, which has been going on for years, has had devastating consequences for the civilian population as well as for the stability of the country and the entire region.
UN High Commissioner Volker Türk recently feared a wave of atrocities in the embattled city of El Obeid. The signs are unmistakable, said the head of the UN human rights office in Geneva earlier this month. A “new human rights catastrophe” is looming. (hkl/sda/dpa)