International

IIE Digital Desk : As Sudan's brutal civil war enters its third year, the humanitarian situation has reached catastrophic levels, particularly for children. According to UNICEF, nearly 14 million children—over half of Sudan's child population—are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance. The conflict has displaced approximately 5 million children, making it the world's largest child displacement crisis.​

The war, which erupted in April 2023 between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has led to widespread violence, including killings, sexual violence, and the abduction of children. A recent massacre at the Zamzam camp in Darfur, where paramilitary forces killed hundreds and abducted women and girls, underscores the escalating dangers faced by children.

Beyond the immediate threats of violence, children are suffering from severe malnutrition and lack of access to essential services. Save the Children reports that nearly 24% of children in some displacement camps are experiencing wasting, the most visible and lethal form of malnutrition. The humanitarian response remains critically underfunded, with only 16.8% of the $2.7 billion UN response plan received.​

The international community's efforts have been hampered by divisions and insufficient commitment. A recent UK-led conference aimed at facilitating ceasefire talks ended without agreement, highlighting the complexities of the conflict and the challenges in providing aid.

As the situation deteriorates, humanitarian organizations continue to call for increased funding and access to deliver life-saving assistance to Sudan's most vulnerable children. Without immediate and sustained intervention, the ongoing conflict threatens to inflict long-term damage on an entire generation of Sudanese children.