Sudan’s Humanitarian Crisis: Impact of Civil War and Urgent Need for Aid

Sudan faces a severe humanitarian crisis as its civil war approaches its third anniversary. With over 30 million people in need of aid and massive displacement affecting nearly 12 million, the situation has been described as one of the largest crises globally. The UN is preparing to request record funding of $4.2 billion to address these urgent needs amidst escalating violence and insecurity.

Sudan’s devastating civil war nears its third year, resulting in severe malnutrition, widespread displacement, and persistent insecurity. As the UN prepares to request an unprecedented $4.2 billion for humanitarian aid, this overview highlights the complexities of the humanitarian crisis affecting millions in Sudan, described as one of the largest globally.

1) The War: By the end of 2022, there was optimism for a UN-backed peace process, with hopes of establishing civilian governance following the fall of long-time dictator Omar al-Bashir. However, unresolved tensions between military factions, notably the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and Rapid Support Forces (RSF), led to violence in 2023, beginning with an RSF assault on Khartoum in April. The conflict has compounded humanitarian needs and prompted the UN to relocate operations to Port Sudan.

2) Humanitarian Crisis: Approximately 30.4 million people, over two-thirds of Sudan’s population, urgently require assistance. The war has driven an economic collapse, exacerbating food price inflation. Currently, over half the population experiences food insecurity, with famine conditions reported in North Darfur and Nuba mountains. Humanitarian access remains constrained, complicating relief efforts amid ongoing violence.

3) Massive Displacement: More than three million are refugees, while nearly nine million are internally displaced, surpassing Switzerland’s total population. Continuous combat has resulted in waves of displacement, complicating humanitarian outreach. Conditions for displaced individuals are dire, with limited access to essentials and health services, creating a critical need for humanitarian support from the UN agencies.

4) Insecurity: Civilian fatalities exceed 18,800, with violence on the rise, particularly in South Kordofan and Blue Nile states. Aid workers also face threats, complicating relief efforts. Reports of human rights violations reveal alarming levels of violence, especially against women and girls who suffer from sexual violence and abductions. Boys face threats of recruitment into armed groups, leading to additional turmoil.

5) Funding: Insufficient funding hinders humanitarian operations in Sudan, with UN agencies struggling to meet even minimal needs. OCHA and UNHCR plan to launch an appeal for $4.2 billion, plus $1.8 billion for neighboring host countries. Despite the immense financial requirement, it represents only a fraction of the necessary aid to support over 21 million individuals in crisis.

The ongoing civil war in Sudan has plunged millions into a humanitarian crisis marked by severe food insecurity, rampant displacement, and escalating violence. Efforts to support those affected are hampered by funding shortages and deteriorating security conditions. It is critical that sustained international attention and resources be directed towards alleviating the suffering of people in Sudan and ensuring their fundamental rights and needs are met.

Original Source: news.un.org