The referendum vote on self-determination held this month in Southern Sudan marks an important step toward political stability and development in a country historically marred by war and confrontation between the north and the south. The fourth edition of the Security Sector Reform Monitor: Southern Sudan discusses the tensions that existed among various factions before the April 2010 election and considers the potential for violence during and after the January referendum. This Monitor answers questions regarding the future of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army/Movement, examines possible new political alliances between the north and Southern Sudan, and considers the possibility for ethnic violence against Southern Sudanese living in the north if the south secedes.
