Sudan's Humanitarian Crisis: Three Years of War and Widespread Suffering

Since the outbreak of conflict on April 15, 2023, between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), Sudan has descended into one of the world's most severe humanitarian crises. The ongoing violence has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and displaced over 11 million people, with nearly 34 million—approximately two-thirds of the population—now in urgent need of humanitarian assistance. The conflict has particularly devastated North Darfur and South Kordofan, where millions are surviving on just one meal a day, often resorting to eating leaves and animal feed.

Al Jazeera (website)As Sudan war enters its fourth year, UN warns of “neglected crisis”UN Aid Chief Warns of Catastrophic Humanitarian Crisis in Sudan

According to the 2026 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan, 61.7% of Sudan's population faces acute food shortages. The UN has reported that famine conditions have been confirmed in regions such as el-Fasher and Kadugli, with the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification indicating that acute malnutrition rates among children have surpassed famine thresholds in areas like Um Baru. The World Food Programme (WFP) estimates that over 19 million people are experiencing acute hunger, exacerbated by rising food prices and disrupted supply chains.

Al Jazeera (website)

Humanitarian organizations, including Amnesty International and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), have criticized the international community for its inadequate response to the crisis. Funding for humanitarian efforts remains critically low, with the UN's appeal for $2.9 billion for 2026 only 16% funded. The IOM's Director General, Amy Pope, emphasized that "needs are outpacing our ability to respond," highlighting the dire consequences of delayed assistance.

Sudan war drives growing numbers towards Europe as crisis spreads

Agnès Callamard, Secretary General of Amnesty International, called for the international community to prioritize accountability for ongoing human rights violations in Sudan. She stated, “The Sudan conflict is not forgotten; it is being deliberately ignored and neglected.” Meanwhile, Carl Skau, WFP’s Deputy Executive Director, noted the appalling conditions faced by displaced families, urging for increased humanitarian aid to prevent further suffering.

While the UN and various NGOs report widespread famine and acute malnutrition, the Sudanese government denies the existence of famine, attributing food shortages to economic crises and climate change. This discrepancy complicates the humanitarian response, as aid groups struggle to operate in an environment where access is often blocked by ongoing violence.

Al Jazeera (website)Three years of war: Sudan’s people abandoned and hungryAs Sudan war enters its fourth year, UN warns of “neglected crisis”

As the conflict enters its fourth year, international efforts to address the crisis are set to continue, with a donor conference scheduled in Berlin aimed at mobilizing aid and reviving peace talks. However, expectations for a political breakthrough remain low, as fighting persists in key regions, and the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate.

As Sudan war enters its fourth year, UN warns of “neglected crisis”

• “The people I met in camps have been through hell. They have fled their homes leaving everything behind and now live in appalling conditions. They deserve so much better. We need to make sure they are not let down again and provide the basic support they need.” — Carl Skau, WFP Deputy Executive Director

Three years of war: Sudan’s people abandoned and hungry

• “The Sudan conflict is not forgotten; it is being deliberately ignored and neglected. Behind this neglect are countless human beings undergoing untold suffering as the world looks the other way. This has to stop,” — Agnès Callamard, Secretary General of Amnesty International

• “Right now, needs are outpacing our ability to respond - and that gap is measured in human lives,” — Amy Pope, IOM Director General

Sudan Aid System Strains Amid Growing War Needs

The situation in Sudan remains critical, with millions facing hunger and displacement as the conflict continues unabated. The international community's response will be crucial in determining the future of the Sudanese people.

Al Jazeera (website)