When did the ethnic and political conflict in Darfur begin?

The ethnic and political conflict in Darfur began in 2003, when rebel groups, primarily the Sudan Liberation Army (SLA) and the Justice and Equality Movement (JEM), launched an insurgency against the Sudanese government. They accused the government of neglecting the region and favoring Arab tribes over non-Arab ethnic groups. This conflict escalated into a humanitarian crisis, marked by widespread violence and displacement of civilians. The situation drew international attention and condemnation, leading to calls for intervention and peacekeeping efforts.