In addition to supporting the development of governance structures across the entire country and planning to share oil resources, the agreement mandated steps toward a referendum on South Sudanese independence.

In keeping with the CPA, Sudan undertook a series of steps to promote peace, encourage unity, and provide to southern Sudan limited autonomy.  A Government of National Unity in Khartoum and autonomous Government of Southern Sudan in Juba formed in 2005.  In April 2010, Sudan held multiparty elections; in January 2011, the country held a referendum, resulting in 99% voting for independence; and on July 9, 2011, South Sudan became the world's newest state. USIP has worked both in the field and in DC to promote a peaceful transition from conflict through a range of projects and initiatives.

Scenarios for Sudan:  In advance of Sudan's January 2011 referendum on independence for southern Sudan, USIP hosted three workshops in April and May 2009 to develop scenarios focused on plausible developments over a two and a half year period.

Preventing Electoral Violence in Sudan:  Prior to the April 2010 multiparty elections throughout Sudan and southern Sudan, USIP conducted electoral violence prevention (EVP) training with participants, representing a range of key institutions and stakeholders, to build conflict resolution and citizenship skills.

Referendum Violence Prevention: Following from the success of the EVP workshops, USIP staff developed a referendum violence prevention workshop curriculum that incorporated case studies of violence before, during and after elections; negotiation skills training; and civic education.

Eye on Sudan: USIP monitored developments leading up to the January 9-15, 2011 referendum in Sudan to decide whether the southern Sudan region should remain a part of Sudan or become an independent country.

Eye on Two Sudans: South Sudan gained independence on July 9, 2011.  USIP monitored developments preceding and following this dramatic event.