The war in Sudan erupted in April 2023, igniting a brutal power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This conflict, stemming from post-2019 political instability after Omar al-Bashir’s removal, has led to one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. The violence has devastated Khartoum, Darfur, and other key regions, displacing millions and disrupting communities.

Despite the scale of devastation, Sudan receives limited media coverage compared to conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. Communication blackouts, a declining international presence, and shifting media priorities contribute to the lack of sustained reporting. Global attention is often diverted to conflicts with direct geopolitical stakes for powerful nations.

The main internal factions in this war include the SAF, which controls key urban centers, and the RSF, which holds strategic territories and engages in governance efforts. Various international actors have played roles in the conflict, providing different forms of support to both sides.

A Humanitarian Catastrophe

• 12+ million people have been displaced since April 2023, with 8.8 million internally displaced and 3.7 million fleeing to neighboring countries.
• 30.4 million people require humanitarian aid, but only 20.9 million are targeted for assistance.
• 24.6 million people face acute food insecurity, and 637,000 are experiencing catastrophic famine-level hunger (IPC 5).
• Less than 25% of health facilities are functional in the worst-affected areas, while disease outbreaks (cholera, dengue fever, malaria) continue to spread.
• More than 17 million children are out of school due to the conflict.
• Women and girls face heightened risks of abuse and conflict-related sexual violence, and 3.2 million people are targeted for gender-based violence protection.
• Conflict-affected areas are heavily contaminated with explosive hazards, adding to civilian casualties.

Funding Shortfall

The humanitarian response faces severe financial gaps:

• $4.2 billion is needed for the 2025 Sudan Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan.
• Only $252.6 million (6.3%) has been received so far.
• An additional $1.8 billion is required to support 5 million refugees in neighboring countries.

A Fragmented Future

Recent developments in February 2025 have further complicated the situation. The RSF declared a Government of Peace and Unity in Kenya, governing areas under its control, while the SAF announced plans for a transitional civilian-led government. The risk of Sudan splitting into rival administrations remains a significant concern. Meanwhile, humanitarian challenges continue to escalate, with Doctors Without Borders suspending operations in Darfur, affecting 500,000 displaced people. Civilians are struggling as basic services collapse, making neutral humanitarian intervention more urgent than ever.

What Can Be Done?

Sudan is witnessing one of the largest humanitarian crises in modern history. The formation of parallel governments highlights the urgent need for international engagement. To address this crisis:

• The world must increase funding for emergency aid and ensure unrestricted access to affected areas.
• Regional and global stakeholders must engage in mediation efforts to prevent further fragmentation.
• The media must amplify Sudan’s crisis to ensure sustained global attention.
• Support for Sudanese refugees, professionals, and academics is crucial in shaping the country’s future.

Act Now

Sudan’s crisis cannot be ignored. The international community must act swiftly to prevent further suffering and provide the resources necessary for survival, stability, and peace.