Laws of Associations

The Political Parties and Organizations Law of 2000, the Press Law of 1999, the Labor Act of 1977, and the Khartoum Public Order Act of 1998 regulate Sudanese civil society.

Political Parties

Recently, political associations in Sudan were given the green light under a new law drafted in 1998 and put into effect in 1999. The Political Association Act of 1998 (Al Tawali) prohibits the formation of political organizations based on violence and coercion and bans membership in more than one political organization. Al-Tawali was abrogated in February 2000 and replaced by the Political Parties and Organizations Law, which allowed the legalization of political parties per se. Applications for registration are published for comment from the public. The official Registrar, appointed by the president of the republic with the approval of the National Assembly, submits the results to the applicants for their response within two weeks. The Registrar’s decision is then final. The Registrar may also dissolve an organization. A dissolved organization or applicants whose request has been denied may take their case before the Constitutional Court within two weeks.

Associations and Unions

The Sudan Chamber of Commerce, the Sudan Workers Trade Unions Federation (SWTUF), and the Sudanese Federation of Employees and Professionals Trade Unions are important umbrella organizations.

Media and Government Regulations

Sudanese radio and television channels are operated by the government. The state maintains a cable network of six channels including CNN, MBC, Dubai TV and Kuwait TV. The Sudan National Broadcasting Corporation (SNBC) is Sudan's official TV broadcaster. The Sudan National Radio Corporation provides national and regional radio programs.