UN Calls Attention to Worsening Humanitarian Crisis in Sudan Amid Conflict

The UN expresses grave concerns regarding the worsening humanitarian crisis in Sudan, exacerbated by ongoing conflict between the SAF and RSF and significant reductions in humanitarian funding. The crisis has led to mass displacement, food scarcity, and infrastructure destruction, necessitating immediate international support to maintain vital services for millions.

On Monday, Stéphane Dujarric, the spokesman for the UN Secretary-General, reported that the humanitarian crisis in Sudan is deteriorating as the conflict between the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) and Rapid Support Forces (RSF) intensifies. He stressed that budget cuts to humanitarian funding have worsened the situation, emphasizing the necessity for a ceasefire to facilitate humanitarian missions aimed at assisting the Sudanese population.

The escalating violence has resulted in thousands of citizens fleeing their homes, contributing to a burgeoning internal refugee crisis. For instance, an attack on March 3 in North Darfur led to the displacement of over 23,000 individuals, further intensifying the urgency to address these humanitarian needs.

Clementine Nkweta-Salami, the Humanitarian and Resident Coordinator in Sudan, raised alarms regarding the potential suspension of humanitarian aid following recent funding cuts from government donors. This decision threatens to deprive millions of essential services, including food and healthcare. Nkweta-Salami remarked that the abrupt funding interruption is especially concerning during a critical humanitarian crisis in Sudan, where half of the population is experiencing food scarcity and the risk of famine rises.

Moreover, the continued conflict has devastated infrastructure and severely impeded access to vital services such as healthcare, clean water, and electricity. Nkweta-Salami noted that humanitarian assistance has become a lifeline for over 15.6 million individuals in Sudan, but the need for aid is expected to increase this year, with only 6.3 percent of the required funding currently available.

The situation in Sudan is recognized as one of the gravest crises by the African Union, triggering international alarm as armed conflicts escalate and humanitarian programs face suspension. Recently, the UN human rights chief cautioned about an impending famine, coinciding with the UN World Food Programme’s temporary halt of food assistance at a refugee camp due to intense clashes between the RSF and Sudanese forces.

The humanitarian crisis in Sudan continues to escalate, driven by the ongoing conflict between the SAF and RSF, escalating violence, and significant funding cuts to humanitarian aid. With the plight of millions at stake, it is imperative that donor governments reconsider their funding decisions to ensure the continuation of essential humanitarian services. Immediate action is needed to address the urgent needs of the Sudanese population, which is facing severe food insecurity and deteriorating living conditions.

Original Source: www.jurist.org