Conflict Over the Commons: Government Bias and Communal Conflicts in Darfur and Eastern Sudan

Abstract

Why do communal conflicts turn violent in some regions but not in others? This article identifies conditions for intercommunal cooperation and examines what makes such cooperation break down. Inspired by Ostrom's CPR-theories, it highlights three mechanisms—sanctions, boundaries, and local rules—underpinning intercommunal cooperation. Next, the argument stipulates that government bias can undermine conditions for communal cohabitation, tipping the balance in favor of conflict rather than cooperation. A systematic comparative study between Darfur and Eastern Sudan—building on extensive fieldwork—provides empirical evidence for the argument. These findings provide new insights on how to enhance community resilience to communal violence.