In this brief but comprehensive book, Francis Deng offers a creative analysis of the situation, aimed at addressing, and hopefully resolving, the complex dilemmas confronting Sudan, Africa, and the international community over the critical choice the South will make in January 2011-unity or secession.

This book is a powerful statement by an individual who is deeply concerned about the plight of his people and the destiny of his country, a man who, in many ways, symbolizes the lofty aspirations for unity in which diversity is seen as a source of enrichment and not of destructive conflict, a unity of full equality among all its citizens.

Sudan at the Brink is a must-read for all those concerned with developments in Sudan at this critical juncture in the history of the country. Whatever decision the Sudanese make in the January 2011 referendum, it is imperative that it be an informed choice carefully weighing the implications of secession versus unity. These profound options will likely be debated in the United Nations General Assembly. They will also be carefully considered in multiple other forums where the future of humanitarian action, peacekeeping, and development are considered.