The conflict in Sudan has led to one of the largest displacement crises globally, with millions in dire need of humanitarian assistance.
Famine conditions are worsening, affecting not only those in Sudan but also impacting neighboring countries as refugees flee the violence.
International response to the crisis has been insufficient, with funding for refugee support significantly lacking compared to the needs on the ground.
Without immediate intervention, the famine in Sudan is expected to spread to additional areas, worsening the humanitarian situation.
The ongoing conflict may lead to an increase in the number of refugees seeking asylum in Europe and other regions.
Continued international pressure and aid are crucial to prevent further deterioration of the situation in Sudan.
Understanding the Humanitarian Crisis in Sudan
Sudan has been embroiled in intense armed conflict for nearly 20 months, primarily between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This ongoing war has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and displaced over 12 million people, creating what the United Nations describes as one of the most severe humanitarian crises in recent history. The situation is exacerbated by widespread famine, with millions facing acute food insecurity.
The Scale of Displacement and Refugee Crisis
According to the UN refugee agency (UNHCR), approximately 3.2 million people have fled Sudan, while over 8.6 million have been displaced internally. The influx of refugees into neighboring countries, particularly South Sudan, has surged, with reports indicating that 35,000-40,000 individuals crossed the border in just the first two weeks of December 2024. The dire conditions in overcrowded camps have led to outbreaks of cholera and a critical need for basic necessities. The refugee crisis is not limited to neighboring countries, as many have traveled as far as Uganda, raising concerns about potential migration to Europe.
Famine and Food Insecurity
The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) has identified famine conditions in multiple regions, including three camps in North Darfur and among displaced communities in South Kordofan. An alarming 26 million people are currently facing severe food insecurity, with projections indicating that this number could rise to 24.6 million by May 2025. The UN has accused the warring factions of employing starvation tactics against civilians, further complicating the humanitarian response. Mary Lupul, humanitarian director for Save the Children, emphasized the urgent need for unhindered access to aid, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children, who are disproportionately affected by malnutrition and disease.
