US-sponsored talks to halt the 16-month conflict in Sudan kicked off in Geneva Aug. 13, but there was a no-show from the army despite all the fanfare. There had been hope that the new venue and buy-in from regional powers supporting the warring factionsâincluding Egypt and the United Arab Emiratesâwould give the process a better chance of succeeding than prior, disjointed mediation attempts. But the army’s command remains internally divided on the issue of dialogueâespecially while it is on the back foot militarilyâand is wary of the US, which it sees as a perennial critic. The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), the army’s rival, is meanwhile being accused of attending talks only to launder its image and bolster its international legitimacy. Grassroots civilian groups also remain deeply wary of another potential power-sharing accord that strengthens the military generals at their expense.
The political maneuvering comes as nationwide displacement tops 10 million and famine has been declared in the western Darfur region. The army-aligned government has denied that famine is taking place, though it is promising to ease humanitarian access restrictions into Darfur after blocking a key supply route from Chad for the past six months.
From The New Humanitarian, Aug. 16.
Map: PCL
UN warns of escalating humanitarian crisis in Sudan
The United Nations issued a dire warning on Sept. 8 about the worsening crisis in Sudan, emphasizing the devastating impact of ongoing conflict and the inadequate international response.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director-general of the World Health Organization (WHO), reported that over 20,000 people have died since the conflict began in April 2023. He cautioned that the actual death toll is likely higher. The conflict has created the worldâs largest internal displacement crisis. Over 10 million people have been displaced within Sudan, with another 2 million seeking refuge in neighboring countries.
During a visit to Port Sudan, Dr. Tedros described the situation as a “perfect storm of crises,” highlighting the shocking scale of the emergency. He criticized the insufficient international response, stating, “the global community seems to have forgotten Sudan.”
Dr. Tedros called for immediate action, including the protection of healthcare facilities and workers, increased access to humanitarian aid, and a significant rise in international funding. He also stressed the need for an immediate ceasefire and a lasting political solution.Â
The conflict has ravaged Sudanâs infrastructure and health system, leaving 70 to 80 percent of the countryâs healthcare facilities non-operational. Additionally, recent seasonal floods have exacerbated the crisis, destroying vital infrastructure and leading to further casualties.
The humanitarian needs are staggering. Over 25 million peopleâmore than half of Sudanâs populationâare facing acute food insecurity. The humanitarian sector has requested $2.7 billion in aid to address these needs, but funding remains below half of what is required. (Jurist)