A UN briefing highlighted the dire humanitarian crisis in Sudan, where nearly two years of conflict have resulted in over 24 million facing acute hunger and millions displaced. The UN urges the Security Council to take action to protect civilians, enable humanitarian access, and secure funding amid escalating violence and deteriorating conditions.
During a recent briefing at the United Nations Security Council, Edem Wosornu of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) urged immediate action to protect civilians in Sudan and to ensure unhindered humanitarian assistance as the country continues to endure war between rival military factions. The conflict has persisted for nearly two years, resulting in immense suffering and transforming parts of Sudan into what has been described as a “hellscape.”
The fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has left over half of the nation—approximately 24.6 million people—confronting acute hunger. Furthermore, more than 12 million have been displaced, including 3.4 million who have sought refuge in neighboring countries. The war has devastated health care services, disrupted education for millions of children, and led to pervasive incidences of sexual violence and other atrocities.
Ms. Wosornu detailed alarming situations in North Darfur and Khartoum where violence against civilians persists, particularly at the Zamzam displacement camp, which houses hundreds of thousands. Despite the Security Council’s Resolution 2739 aimed at protecting civilians, attacks continue unabated, and humanitarian workers have suffered casualties amidst the escalating violence. Additionally, satellite images reveal heavy weaponry use and the destruction of market facilities in conflict zones like Zamzam.
In Khartoum, reports of summary executions have been verified by the UN human rights office, raising significant concerns about the safety of local responders and community volunteers in the region. The conflict is spreading into other areas, notably North and South Kordofan states, complicating humanitarian efforts. Recent events in White Nile state have also led to alarming reports of large-scale civilian casualties.
The recent launch of the 2025 humanitarian response plans seeks $6 billion to assist nearly 25 million people in Sudan, alongside up to five million refugees in surrounding countries. Ms. Wosornu emphasized that urgent efforts from the international community, particularly the Security Council, are essential to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Sudan.
In conclusion, Ms. Wosornu articulated her three key requests: that all parties comply with international humanitarian law to protect civilians; that genuine efforts are made to facilitate unfettered humanitarian access; and that international funding is mobilized to address the unprecedented humanitarian needs in Sudan.
In summary, the ongoing conflict in Sudan has resulted in widespread humanitarian crises, displacing millions and leading to acute hunger. The UN calls for immediate action from the Security Council to protect civilians, ensure humanitarian access, and mobilize funding to meet overwhelming needs. As the situation persists, the international community’s swift response is critical for improving conditions for those affected.
Original Source: news.un.org
