Millions Pushed to ‘Brink of Survival’ in Sudan

Sudan is at the center of a severe humanitarian crisis, according to the UN. Over 30 million people require urgent aid, including 9.6 million displaced and nearly 15 million children struggling for survival. “This is one of the worst protection crises we’ve seen in decades,” stated Kelly Clements, UNHCR’s Deputy High Commissioner. UNHCR, IOM, UNICEF, and WFP have issued a joint appeal for immediate international attention to address the suffering and dangers faced by millions in Sudan.

As fighting subsides in Khartoum and other areas, nearly 2.6 million people are returning to damaged homes, often without water, healthcare, or education. “I met people returning to a city still marked by conflict, where basic services barely function. Their determination to rebuild is remarkable, but life is fragile,” said Ugochi Daniels, IOM’s Deputy Director General for Operations. IOM warns of diseases like cholera, dengue, and malaria, along with rising malnutrition, threatening thousands without immediate help.

Over 260,000 civilians, including 130,000 children, remain trapped under siege in El Fasher, North Darfur, in a dire situation. For over 16 months, families have lacked food, water, and healthcare, with reports of killings, sexual violence, and forced recruitment rising. “Entire communities are surviving in conditions that defy dignity,” warned Ted Chaiban, UNICEF Deputy Executive Director. “Children are malnourished, exposed to violence, and at risk of dying from preventable diseases. Families show extraordinary resolve in unimaginable hardship.”

The humanitarian response has reached over 13.5 million people this year, but funding shortfalls hinder aid delivery. The 2025 Humanitarian Response Plan for Sudan, requiring US$4.2 billion, is only 25% funded. IOM, UNHCR, UNICEF, and WFP remain committed to providing critical aid and protection to Sudanese children and families. “The humanitarian community is ready to respond, but urgent global support is needed to save lives and help communities rebuild,” emphasized the agencies.