A senior UN official, Edem Wosornu, urged the Security Council to act decisively in response to the escalating humanitarian crisis in Sudan. After nearly two years of intense conflict, millions are suffering from acute hunger and displacement, while violence continues to escalate in regions like North Darfur and Khartoum. Wosornu called for increased protection for civilians, unhindered humanitarian access, and significant international support to address the unprecedented needs arising from the conflict.
A senior official from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), Edem Wosornu, addressed the Security Council concerning the urgent humanitarian crisis in Sudan, as the violent conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) nears its second year. She emphasized the dire condition faced by civilians in Sudan, stating, “Now more than ever, two years on, the people of Sudan need your action.”
Wosornu outlined the severe consequences of the ongoing conflict, noting that over half the population, comprising 24.6 million people, are suffering from acute hunger. Furthermore, more than 12 million individuals have been displaced, including approximately 3.4 million who have sought refuge outside the country. The health system has collapsed, millions of children are out of school, and instances of sexual violence have surged across the nation.
The speaker highlighted ongoing violence in North Darfur and other regions, particularly near the Zamzam displacement camp, where conditions have deteriorated markedly. She informed the Security Council about the continued assaults on civilians, stating that despite the adoption of Resolution 2739 (2024) aimed at protecting civilians, the violence has persisted unabated. Satellite images corroborate the alleged use of heavy weapons in the area and the destruction of essential market facilities.
Wosornu reported that civilians in Khartoum are also facing brutal violence amidst fierce clashes, including verified incidents of summary executions as control of areas shifts between military forces. The human rights office remains deeply concerned about the risks endured by local responders and volunteers across Sudan.
As fighting escalates in southern regions, including North and South Kordofan, risks to civilians have intensified, complicating humanitarian efforts. Reports of grave atrocities in White Nile state have also been documented, illustrating the increase in violence against civilians.
In light of these alarming conditions, Wosornu underscored the launch of the humanitarian response plans for 2025, which require $6 billion to assist nearly 25 million individuals in Sudan and about five million refugees in neighboring countries. She urged the international community, especially members of the Security Council, to spare no effort in addressing the crisis effectively.
In conclusion, Wosornu presented three critical actions for the Security Council and member states: first, to ensure compliance with international humanitarian law to protect civilians; second, to guarantee unfettered humanitarian access to those in need; and third, to secure unprecedented international support for the overwhelming needs of Sudan. She concluded, highlighting the necessity of mobilizing flexible funding to effectively address the humanitarian crisis.
In summary, the humanitarian crisis in Sudan has reached catastrophic levels, with millions suffering from hunger and displacement due to ongoing conflict. Edem Wosornu’s address to the Security Council emphasized the urgent need for protective actions for civilians, increased access for humanitarian aid, and mobilization of international support. The situation calls for immediate and coordinated efforts from the global community to alleviate the suffering of the Sudanese people.
Original Source: news.un.org
