US Jury Delivers $20 Million Verdict Against Frances Top Bank for Role in Sudanese Atrocities

A federal jury in New York has handed down a $20 million verdict against BNP Paribas S.A., France’s largest bank. This ruling relates to the bank’s involvement with the Sudanese government during a period marked by severe human rights violations two decades ago. The decision highlights the bank’s access to the U.S. financial system, which the plaintiffs claim facilitated atrocities committed in Sudan.
Details of the Verdict
The jury deliberated for approximately four hours before awarding significant compensatory amounts to the three plaintiffs, all U.S. citizens. Each plaintiff received between $6.7 million and $7.3 million for their suffering after being displaced from Sudan, where they lost their homes and properties.
Background of the Case
- The case was built on claims that BNP Paribas enabled the Sudanese government to fund a campaign of persecution.
- The plaintiffs argue the bank contributed to crimes against humanity under then-president Omar al-Bashir.
Adam Levitt, the plaintiffs’ attorney, expressed satisfaction with the verdict, stating that it represents a step toward justice. He emphasized the importance of holding BNP Paribas accountable for its actions. The bank, however, maintains that it did not knowingly facilitate any human rights abuses and intends to appeal the decision.
BNP Paribas’ Defense
In response to the ruling, BNP Paribas has stated that Sudan had alternative funding sources. The bank contends it did not engage in military financing and that its activities did not cause the suffering described by the plaintiffs. It also indicated that the issues in Sudan predated and continued after its departure from the country.
Historical Context
From 2002 to 2008, BNP Paribas provided Sudan’s authorities with access to international money markets. According to reports, the conflict in the Darfur region led to the death of over 300,000 individuals and displaced approximately 2.7 million people.
Current Situation in Sudan
Omar al-Bashir, the former Sudanese president, is currently held in a military detention facility. He faces charges from the International Criminal Court for genocide. Despite these charges, he has not yet been extradited to The Hague.
Wider Implications
This verdict could impact other cases involving Sudanese refugees, including approximately 23,000 U.S. citizens who are part of a class-action lawsuit. Levitt hopes the trial’s outcomes will set a precedent for similar claims against entities that have supported oppressive regimes.
In a previous notable case from 2014, BNP Paribas agreed to pay nearly $9 billion to resolve allegations related to transactions with Sudan, Cuba, and Iran, highlighting ongoing scrutiny of the bank’s operations in regions associated with severe human rights violations.