Since April 2023, Sudan has been devastated by war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Millions of people have been displaced, while homes, hospitals, schools and other essential civilian infrastructure have been destroyed. Nearly 34 million people now need humanitarian assistance.

 

What is happening to civilians?

 

Civilians are paying the highest price of the conflict. People are being killed and injured, forced from their homes, and left without reliable access to food, healthcare, clean water and education. Humanitarian organizations are struggling to reach people in areas affected by fighting, while severe funding shortages are limiting lifesaving assistance.

 

What is happening to women and girls?

 

Women and girls face particularly severe risks. UN agencies have documented widespread sexual violence, including rape, as well as abductions and forced marriage. Around one million pregnant women need humanitarian assistance, while Sudan's health system has been severely damaged, making access to essential maternal and reproductive healthcare extremely difficult.

 

Who are we calling on?

 

We call on governments, the United Nations, European Union, regional organizations, international donors and all parties to the conflict to act urgently.

 

What action should be taken?

 

We call for:

 

- An immediate and sustained cessation of hostilities, followed by meaningful negotiations toward a lasting peace.

- Strong diplomatic pressure on the SAF and RSF to stop attacks on civilians and comply with international humanitarian law.

- International pressure on states and other actors providing military support to the conflict to stop actions that enable further violence.

- Safe, rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access throughout Sudan so aid can reach people wherever they are.

- Urgent increases in humanitarian funding, including funding for food, healthcare, clean water, shelter, education and protection services. Current funding shortfalls are already forcing humanitarian organizations to reduce their assistance.

- Specific protection and support for women and girls, including services for survivors of gender-based violence and access to maternal and reproductive healthcare.

- Accountability for serious violations against civilians, with perpetrators investigated and held responsible.

 

The people of Sudan need more than statements of concern. They need the violence to stop, humanitarian aid to reach them, and meaningful international action to help bring this war to an end.