Addressing the world from Port Sudan, International Organization for Migration (IOM) Director-General Amy Pope recently described the catastrophic situation in Sudan, where an estimated 11 million individuals have already been displaced internally due to the ongoing conflict.

Additionally, over 3.1 million people have crossed borders to escape the violence, making Sudan home to the world’s largest displacement AND humanitarian crisis.

A Living Nightmare

The humanitarian crisis in Sudan has reached a tipping point. “The situation here is catastrophic,” Pope stated. “Hunger, disease, and sexual violence are rampant.”

Since April 2023, Sudan has experienced a relentless conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, with reports of mass violence and human rights violations emerging from regions like Al Jazirah State.

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The underreporting of the crisis has worsened the humanitarian toll

“Millions are suffering, and there’s a real risk of this conflict igniting regional instability”

Sudan’s conflict has been severely underreported, drawing far less global attention than needed. The IOM estimates that nearly 30% of Sudan’s population is displaced, with women and young children comprising more than half of those affected. Pope highlighted that these vulnerable populations face immense hardship, often lacking basic necessities like food, shelter, and healthcare.

#Sudan’s humanitarian situation is catastrophic. Record numbers are displaced by conflict. Over 25 million face acute food insecurity. Millions lack basics for survival.

I’m here to shine a spotlight on the critical needs & call for urgent scaling up of humanitarian response. pic.twitter.com/FSrABcL9kd

— Amy Pope (@IOMchief) October 29, 2024

Weather conditions have made it even harder

In August, floods across Sudan displaced more people and destroyed crucial infrastructure. The spillway collapse at the Arbaat Dam caused significant damage to homes and livestock, adding to the suffering in communities already reeling from conflict.

The impact of the Arbaat Dam Collapse has left infrastructure and communities in Red Sea State deeply affected. On Monday we saw and heard how extremely urgent shelter and clean water are to ensure dignity and prevent outbreaks/health issues do to lack of WASH.#Sudan @IOMSudan pic.twitter.com/EJINRbpESx

— Nadiah (@nadiahdv) September 4, 2024

The lack of funding makes it worse!

International aid for Sudan continues to fall short – only 52% of promised funds have been delivered, leaving significant gaps in response efforts. “IOM has managed to help nearly 3 million people since the start of the conflict, but only 20% of our response plan is funded,” Pope noted.

Without adequate funding, millions remain at risk, particularly in regions where access to aid is restricted by ongoing violence.

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