Full Breakdown
International Conference in Berlin Raises €1.3 Billion for Sudan Amid Ongoing Conflict
4/16/2026, 12:26:51 AM
Humanitarian Crisis in Sudan
The war in Sudan, now entering its fourth year, has resulted in a severe humanitarian crisis largely overlooked by the international community. The conflict, which erupted following the ousting of longtime dictator Omar al-Bashir in 2019, involves fierce fighting between the Sudanese military, led by General Abdel-Fattah Burhan, and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), commanded by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo. As of now, approximately 150,000 people have died, and around 12 million have been displaced, with 33 million—about two-thirds of the population—relying on humanitarian aid.
Berlin Conference: Funding and Goals
On the third anniversary of the conflict, Germany hosted an international conference in Berlin aimed at raising funds to alleviate the suffering of the Sudanese people. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul announced that €1.3 billion (approximately $1.53 billion) had been pledged, surpassing the €1 billion raised at last year's donor conference in London. Germany committed an additional €212 million for humanitarian assistance, with Development Minister Reem Alabali Radovan emphasizing support for women affected by the war.
The conference attracted representatives from the European Union, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the African Union, all focused on securing additional funds and drawing attention to the crisis. British Foreign Minister Yvette Cooper highlighted the need for international pressure on the warring factions to reach a ceasefire, stating, "Countries from across the world are coming together here in Berlin to discuss the way, frankly, the international community has failed the people of Sudan."
Criticism of International Response
Despite the pledges made at the conference, critics argue that the international community has consistently failed to address the ongoing crisis effectively. UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher remarked, "This grim and chastening anniversary marks another year when the world has failed to meet the test of Sudan." The decline in global donor contributions—falling from $2.07 billion in 2024 to $1.77 billion in 2025—has exacerbated the situation, with many experts attributing this to shifting focus towards other global conflicts, such as those in Ukraine and Iran.
The Role of External Actors
The conflict in Sudan has drawn international interest due to its rich natural resources, particularly oil and gold. The Sudanese military reportedly receives support from Egypt, while the RSF has been linked to the United Arab Emirates, despite their denial of involvement. The influx of modern weaponry, including drones, has intensified the violence, with UN reports documenting 700 civilian deaths attributed to drone strikes since the beginning of the year.
Conclusion: A Call for Continued Attention
As the humanitarian crisis in Sudan deepens, the Berlin conference served as a crucial platform for raising awareness and funds. However, the absence of representatives from the conflicting parties and the ongoing challenges in securing a ceasefire highlight the complexities of the situation. The international community's commitment to addressing the crisis remains critical, as millions continue to suffer amid a largely forgotten conflict.
