UN Humanitarian Chief Demands Immediate Action for Sudan’s Crisis
UN Aid Chief Tom Fletcher urges immediate international action on the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, where ongoing conflict has displaced over 11 million people and threatened about half of the population with starvation. His recent visit emphasized the urgent need for global support and assistance for those affected by the violence.
The United Nations humanitarian chief has expressed urgent calls for immediate international intervention regarding the escalating crisis in Sudan. Tom Fletcher, following his nine-day expedition to Sudan and Chad, emphasized the dire circumstances faced by millions who have fled due to continuous conflict. He assured refugees that their plight would be amplified on global platforms, reiterating, “We are not invisible.”
Since April 2023, Sudan has been embroiled in conflict, primarily between the regular army under Abdel-Fattah al-Burhan and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces led by Mohamed Hamdan Daglo. This violence has resulted in tens of thousands of fatalities and has displaced over 11 million individuals, marking what the UN deems the worst humanitarian crisis in recent history.
During his visit to El-Geneina in West Darfur, Fletcher recounted “heart-rending stories” he encountered from refugees escaping the violence. He acknowledged the harsh realities faced by those within the region and stressed that Sudan represents “the biggest humanitarian crisis in the world.” Before venturing into Darfur, he remarked on the critical nature of the Adre crossing on the Chad border, highlighting its role as a vital access point for humanitarian aid destined for Sudanese citizens.
Addressing the pressing needs of displaced individuals, Fletcher stated, “I know that the situation is very, very hard. I know that you need food and medicine and education and shelter and pride and dignity.” He further noted that nearly 26 million people, about half of Sudan’s population, are threatened by mass starvation, as both conflicting parties have reportedly weaponized hunger amidst the ongoing violence. He urged the global community to respond to these staggering figures, proclaiming, “These numbers are staggering, and we cannot turn our backs.”
The humanitarian crisis in Sudan has escalated dramatically due to ongoing armed conflict since April 2023 between the national army and paramilitary forces. This conflict has precipitated widespread displacement, threatening millions with starvation and lack of essential services. The role of international aid, particularly through the United Nations, is crucial in alleviating the dire circumstances faced by millions, offering supplies and support while advocating for global awareness and action.
In summary, the recent call to action by the UN humanitarian chief highlights the urgent humanitarian needs of millions affected by the conflict in Sudan. The dire situation underscores an escalating crisis characterized by unprecedented levels of violence and displacement. Tom Fletcher’s visits and calls for international support illustrate the critical necessity for a swift and comprehensive humanitarian response to alleviate the suffering faced by the people of Sudan and Chad.
Original Source: thedefensepost.com
