** War in Sudan: humanitarian issues and peace prospects **
The situation in Sudan, with the rise of an armed conflict since April 2023, aroused strong concerns both at regional and international level. Under the direction of two military figures, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the ex-general and now rival, Mohamed Hamdane Daglo, the country is plunged into violence which has already generated nearly 13 million displaced and refugees, according to estimates of the High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR).
** A complex context **
It is essential to locate this conflict in a context that dates back several years. Sudan has experienced a tumultuous story, marked by coups, ethnic and religious tensions, and economic crises. The 2021 coup, which brought Al-Burhan to power, exacerbated an already volatile situation. The absence of significant reforms and inclusive dialogue has created a political void that the individual ambitions of the military quickly filled.
This dynamic of personal power, where loyalty and alliances oscillate according to immediate interests, is a characteristic of conflicts in the region. The implications of this power struggle often result in tragic consequences for the civilian population, which is taken between cross fires.
** The humanitarian consequences **
The humanitarian crisis that has been exacerbated in Sudan since the start of hostilities is alarming. The statements of Abdouraouf Gnon-Konde, regional director of the UNHCR, stress that this situation is comparable to other world-scale crises, including that of Gaza. The fact that this crisis is less publicized deserves reflection. What explains this disparity in media and international attention?
Indeed, human losses, massive displacements and the disintegration of social and health structures pose complex challenges. The 13 million displaced and refugees are not only a devastating figure in itself, but they also witness the difficulties of a country to meet the basic needs of its population. The question of humanitarian resources also surfaces: how can the international community effectively respond to a crisis that is not on the front of the media scene?
** Invest in peace and dialogue **
If the international community becomes aware of the magnitude of the crisis in Sudan, what can be done to promote lasting dialogue and peace? Above all, it is crucial to recognize that armed conflicts are not simply the result of military clashes, but of a deep socio-economic environment, inequalities and exclusions.
Diplomatic initiatives must be focused on the inclusion of different Sudanese voices, including those of women and young people, often absent from the discussions. By allowing a real space for dialogue, it is possible to lay the foundations for lasting reconciliation. In addition, the rehabilitation of social infrastructure, such as education and health, is inseparable from peace. It requires the active commitment of regional powers, but also a local political will to build a united and pacified Sudan.
** Conclusion: a collective responsibility **
While Sudan continues to face this terrible crisis, it becomes imperative to examine how the international community, regional actors and, above all, the Sudanese themselves can participate together in a healing process. The challenge is immense, but the chances of success reside in the ability to initiate open discussions on the deep causes of the conflict and to promote global solidarity in the face of the magnitude of human sufferings.
By emphasizing these questions, this article aims to draw attention to a crisis that requires our commitment and our collective understanding. War in Sudan should not become forgotten by global crises. Humanity is at the crossroads, and the choice to support concrete and inclusive solutions may well be decisive for the future of millions of Sudanese citizens.