UN Report: Sudan’s Humanitarian Crisis Reaches Critical Levels Amidst Brutal War

In a recent and alarming report, United Nations investigators have detailed a series of devastating attacks on civilians, healthcare facilities, markets, and schools across Sudan. The report also highlights ethnically motivated summary executions, underscoring the severe breakdown of international humanitarian and human rights law in the region. This ongoing humanitarian crisis has left millions in dire need of assistance and protection.

Volker Türk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, condemned the ongoing violence, stating, “The continued and deliberate attacks on civilians and civilian objects, as well as summary executions, sexual violence, and other violations, highlight the complete disregard for human rights by both warring parties.” Türk emphasized that some of these acts may constitute war crimes and urged for prompt and independent investigations to bring the perpetrators to justice.

The UN report has made several critical recommendations to address the escalating humanitarian crisis in Sudan. Among them is the expansion of the arms embargo and the extension of the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) jurisdiction to cover the entire country of Sudan, not just the Darfur region, which has historically been a hotbed for atrocities. This move is essential to address the widespread humanitarian crisis and ensure accountability for the atrocities committed.

Over 22 months of relentless fighting between the Sudanese Government forces and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has left more than 30 million people in need of urgent assistance and protection. The conflict has triggered the world’s most severe displacement crisis, with over 12 million people forced to flee their homes. Of these, 3.3 million have sought refuge in neighboring countries. This massive displacement is a significant aspect of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan.

The impact on food security and healthcare is catastrophic. Less than a quarter of Sudan’s health facilities are operational in the most affected areas, and nearly 25 million people are facing acute levels of hunger. The situation is further exacerbated by the widespread use of sexual violence as a weapon of war. The report documents 120 incidents affecting at least 203 victims, though the actual number is likely much higher due to fear, stigma, and the collapse of medical and judicial systems. This violence is a critical component of the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Sudan.

The UN report highlights the persistent use of sexual violence as a weapon of war, a situation that Türk described as “deeply shocking.” He called for immediate measures to end these atrocities, hold the perpetrators accountable, and provide support for survivors. This call to action is crucial in addressing the humanitarian crisis and ensuring the safety and well-being of Sudan’s population.

In addition to the violence, the report details widespread disappearances and a severe crackdown on civic space. This includes the killing of journalists and attacks on human rights defenders. At least 12 journalists were killed in 2024, with two of them dying while in detention. Another 31 were arbitrarily detained, including four women. The Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) documented over 4,200 civilian killings during the year, though the actual number is likely far higher. These actions contribute to the worsening humanitarian crisis in the country.

Li Fung, head of the OHCHR office in Sudan, described the situation as a “dangerous tipping point” and urged the international community to renew its focus on human rights. Speaking from Port Sudan, she emphasized the need for the international community to take all necessary measures to protect civilians and prevent further violations. “Ensuring that critical humanitarian assistance reaches those in need remains urgent,” Fung said. “Together, we must stand with the people of Sudan.”

The term “Humanitarian Crisis” is central to understanding the severity of the situation in Sudan. It encapsulates the widespread suffering, displacement, and lack of basic necessities like food and healthcare. The UN report underscores the urgent need for international intervention to address this humanitarian crisis and protect the vulnerable population of Sudan. As the conflict continues to ravage the country, the international community must act swiftly to prevent further escalation and provide much-needed relief to the millions affected. The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan is not just a regional issue but a global concern that demands immediate attention and coordinated action.