UN: Crisis in Sudan one of ‘Staggering Scale & Cruelty’ calls for immediate Ceasefire

The United Nations has called for immediate international action to address the catastrophic humanitarian crisis unfolding in Sudan, where more than 12 million people have been displaced since conflict erupted in April.

Edem Wosornu, Director of Operations at the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), described the crisis as one of “staggering scale and cruelty” during a Security Council briefing, highlighting widespread atrocities, displacement, and the destruction of essential infrastructure.

A Humanitarian Catastrophe

Since the war began between rival military factions, over 3.2 million refugees have fled to neighboring countries, placing immense strain on regions with limited resources. Inside Sudan, civilians face deadly airstrikes, artillery attacks, rampant sexual violence, and the collapse of healthcare and education systems.

Deadly diseases like cholera are spreading rapidly as famine conditions worsen. Millions are battling hunger and malnutrition, with children and vulnerable populations disproportionately affected.

UN Efforts and Setbacks

Despite the challenges, UN relief efforts have made some progress:

• The UN secured access through Chad’s Adre border crossing.

• $5 million was allocated from the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) to aid refugees.

• The World Food Programme delivered its first food convoy to Zamzam camp in North Darfur after famine conditions were declared.

However, fierce fighting continues to hinder aid delivery, with reports of repeated shelling and airstrikes targeting civilian areas and displacing thousands more.

Urgent Calls to Action

Ms. Wosornu issued three critical appeals to the Security Council:

1. Protect Civilians: Enforce compliance with international law, end the use of sexual violence, and spare essential infrastructure.

2. Keep Aid Routes Open: Use diplomatic influence to secure relief corridors and remove bureaucratic hurdles like visa delays.

3. Close Funding Gaps: Raise $4.2 billion to support 21 million people in Sudan and $1.8 billion for refugees in neighboring countries.

   
   

While UN agencies remain resolute in their humanitarian mission, Ms. Wosornu emphasized that true relief hinges on ending the conflict. “The only way to break this cycle of violence, death, and destruction is through lasting peace,” she concluded.