Macklemore cancels concert over UAE’s alleged role in Sudan conflict

American rapper Macklemore cancels his planned October 2024 concert in Dubai, citing the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) alleged support for the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) involved in Sudan’s ongoing civil war.

His decision has sparked renewed attention on the UAE’s involvement in the conflict and raised questions about the role of artists in global activism.

Macklemore cancels due to humanitarian concerns, activist requests

Macklemore announced his decision on social media, explaining that the current situation in Sudan is “urgent, horrific, and it’s going largely unnoticed globally.”

He revealed that activists and organizers had asked him to cancel the show as an act of solidarity with the Sudanese people and as a boycott against the UAE for its alleged role in the conflict.

“Until the UAE stops arming and funding the RSF, I will not perform there,” Macklemore stated emphatically.

The conflict in Sudan began in April 2023 when tensions between the military and RSF erupted into widespread violence. The United Nations estimates that more than 18,800 people have been killed, while millions have been displaced and face the threat of famine.

Despite the UAE’s repeated denials of supporting the RSF, U.N. experts reported credible evidence earlier this year that the UAE had sent weapons to the RSF multiple times a week from northern Chad.

UAE denies allegations of arming RSF, Macklemore encourages fellow artists to act

The UAE has consistently denied any involvement in fueling the Sudanese conflict. However, the allegations were prominently discussed during a contentious U.N. Security Council meeting in June, where Sudan’s government directly accused the UAE of arming the RSF. An Emirati diplomat responded by dismissing the claims as “ludicrous” and accused Sudan’s representative of grandstanding.

Despite the UAE’s denials, Macklemore stands firm in his decision, stating that he understands the potential consequences for future performances in the region. He also addressed his peers scheduled to perform in Dubai, urging them to consider the impact of their choices.

“If we used our platforms to mobilize collective liberation, what could we accomplish?” he asked, challenging other artists to think about the broader implications of their performances.

Macklemore’s activism expands beyond Sudan to include support for Palestinians

Macklemore’s recent actions are part of his broader commitment to global activism. He noted that his decision to cancel the Dubai concert was also influenced by his growing support for Palestinians amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.

He has recently begun performing a song titled “Hind’s Hall,” which honors a young girl killed in Gaza.

“Our individual liberation IS Palestinian liberation. Is Sudanese liberation. Is Congolese liberation,” Macklemore wrote, linking the struggles of marginalized groups worldwide.