“The world is forgetting about the people of Sudan” the UN chief warned on Monday, calling for a boost in humanitarian funding and a global push for peace to end a year of brutal fighting between rival militaries.
With attention over the weekend focused on the Middle East he said the conflict between the national army and Rapid Support Forces militia had turned into “a war being waged on the Sudanese people.”
“It is a war on the many thousands of civilians who have been killed, and tens of thousands more maimed for life, said UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
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“It is a war on the 18 million people facing acute hunger and the communities now staring down the terrifying threat of famine in the months ahead.”
No aspect of civilian life has been spared, including rampant sexual violence and the targeting of aid convoys and aid workers.
Meanwhile, the violence which erupted in and around the capital Khartoum a year ago, has forced more than eight million to flee their homes while two million have become refugees.
One year on, half of Sudan’s population needs lifesaving assistance.
El Fasher tinderbox
Mr. Guterres said latest reports of escalating hostilities in El Fasher – the capital of North Darfur – “are a fresh cause for deep alarm.”
Over the weekend, RSF-affiliated militias attacked and burnt villages west of the city leading to widespread new displacement.
“Let me be clear: Any attack on El Fasher would be devastating for civilians and could lead to full-blown intercommunal conflict across Darfur”, said the UN chief.
“It would also upend aid operations in an area already on the brink of famine, since El Fasher has always been a critical UN humanitarian hub. All parties must facilitate the safe, rapid and unimpeded passage of humanitarian personnel and supplies through all available routes into El Fasher.”
A path out of the nightmare
Noting the international conference on the Sudan crisis taking place in Paris on Monday, the Secretary-General said Sudanese “desperately need the support and generosity of the global community to help them through this nightmare.”
A $2.7 billion Humanitarian Response Plan for Sudan is only six per cent funded while the $1.4 billion Regional Refugee Response Plan was only seven per cent funded.
He said all combatants had made promises to ensure full humanitarian access to allow vital aid to reach civilians.
“They must heed the UN Security Council’s call to ensure rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access, and to protect civilians.”
But the Sudanese people need more than aid, “they need an end to the bloodshed. They need peace”, Mr. Guterres continued.
Political solution is the only solution
“The only path out of this horror is a political solution. At this critical moment, in addition to global support for aid, we need a concerted global push for a ceasefire in Sudan followed by a comprehensive peace process.”
He noted that his Personal Envoy, Ramtane Lamamra, is working tirelessly to mediate more talks between the rival generals.
“Coordinated international efforts will be essential to amplify joint action”, and work must continue on Sudan’s democratic transition, which was derailed by a military coup in late 2021.
He said this must be an inclusive process: “I will not relent in my calls for all parties to silence the guns and meet the aspirations of the Sudanese people for a peaceful and secure future.”
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“The world seems to be turning a blind eye to the suffering of the people in Sudan. It’s crucial that we come together globally to push for a ceasefire and provide the necessary humanitarian aid. The situation in Sudan is dire, with countless civilians bearing the brunt of this conflict.”
“The situation in Sudan is devastating, and urgent action is essential to save lives. The international community must come together to support peace efforts and provide much-needed humanitarian aid.” – EmilyJ
What actions are being taken to mobilize the global community and ensure a ceasefire in Sudan?
EmilyJones, the global community is ramping up efforts to secure a ceasefire in Sudan by increasing humanitarian funding and advocating for peace initiatives. It is imperative that we do not overlook the plight of the Sudanese people amidst the ongoing conflict. Let’s hope for a swift resolution to this crisis.
It is crucial that the global community steps up its efforts to bring about a ceasefire in Sudan. The situation is dire, and urgent action is needed to prevent further suffering and loss of life among the Sudanese people. Let’s unite for peace and prioritize humanitarian aid to alleviate the devastating impact of the ongoing conflict.
Absolutely heartbreaking to see the devastating impact of the ongoing conflict in Sudan. The world must not turn a blind eye to the suffering of the Sudanese people. Urgent international cooperation is crucial to achieve a ceasefire and provide much-needed humanitarian aid.
Isn’t it alarming how the conflict in Sudan has escalated to the point where millions are at risk of famine and violence? What more can be done to ensure a ceasefire and protect the civilians?
It’s truly heartbreaking to see the dire situation in Sudan escalate to this extent. Immediate global intervention is essential to prevent further suffering and loss of innocent lives. The urgency of the matter calls for swift action and unwavering commitment to securing a lasting ceasefire and protection for the vulnerable population.
Isn’t it high time for the international community to take significant action in putting an end to the devastating conflict in Sudan?
Isn’t it concerning that the world seems to be overlooking the crisis in Sudan highlighted by the UN chief? What more can the international community do to help end the brutal fighting and aid the people of Sudan?
“The situation in Sudan is truly heartbreaking. It’s devastating to see the ongoing conflict and the suffering of innocent civilians. The international community must come together urgently to help end this crisis and provide much-needed humanitarian aid. My thoughts are with the people of Sudan during these difficult times.”