Millions displaced in Sudan crisis, UN experts plead for ceasefire and urgent aid

February 6, 2024 (GENEVA) – The United Nations is sounding the alarm on a deepening humanitarian crisis in Sudan, where ongoing conflict has displaced millions and left nearly half the population facing acute hunger.

A joint statement by UN experts reveals a staggering 25 million people, including 14 million children, are in dire need of assistance. The crisis, fueled by clashes between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces since April 2023, has forced an estimated 9.05 million people from their homes, creating the world’s largest child displacement crisis.

“Sudan is facing one of the fastest unfolding crises globally,” warned the statement. “With nearly 4 million children displaced, schools have become emergency shelters, and 20 million children are reportedly out of school and vulnerable to exploitation.”

The displacement crisis has compounded existing food shortages, with 17.7 million people facing severe hunger. The healthcare system is also on the brink of collapse, with 70-80% of hospitals non-operational. Disease outbreaks, including cholera, further threaten the health and well-being of displaced communities.

UN experts expressed grave concern about the lack of accountability for human rights abuses, including targeting of civilians, arbitrary detention, and restrictions on freedom of movement. They also highlighted the critical need for increased humanitarian funding, with the 2024 Sudan Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan currently only 3.1% funded.

The statement urged all parties to the conflict to Immediately declare a ceasefire to protect civilians and facilitate humanitarian access, Resume inclusive political negotiations for a peaceful transition to civilian rule, Allow and facilitate the safe passage and delivery of humanitarian aid and Hold perpetrators of human rights violations accountable.

“The international community must act now to prevent further suffering in Sudan,” the statement concluded. “Increased funding for humanitarian operations and a renewed commitment to peace are essential to address this urgent crisis.”

This story highlights the devastating human cost of the conflict in Sudan and the urgent need for international action to protect civilians, provide humanitarian assistance, and find a lasting solution to the crisis.

The over forty signatories of the statement are part of a larger group called the Special Procedures, which is the biggest independent expert body within the UN’s Human Rights system. These experts focus on specific countries or broader themes related to human rights around the world. They work independently and voluntarily, without receiving payment or being affiliated with any specific organization.

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