International news is often marked by conflicts and wars which have terrible repercussions on civilian populations, particularly children. In Sudan, the civil war that has raged since April has forced more than three million children to flee their homes, creating the world’s largest child displacement crisis.
Since December 15, fighting has intensified in Gezira State, south of Khartoum, between General Al-Burhan’s army and General Hemetti’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This paramilitary offensive caused a massive displacement of the population, particularly among children. In just a few days, more than 150,000 children were forced to flee their homes, leaving their homes and schools behind.
This new wave of violence raises serious concerns about the safety and well-being of children who find themselves trapped between the fighting lines or caught in the crossfire. Testimonies collected by Unicef report grueling and terrifying journeys, where women and children had to flee with few resources and in conditions of constant danger.
Faced with this major humanitarian crisis, Unicef estimates that 8 million Sudanese children will need vital humanitarian aid next year. However, current funding is largely insufficient to meet these urgent needs. The organization is $840 million short of providing water, nutrition and health assistance to these children and their families.
In addition to the immediate consequences for the safety and well-being of children, the civil war in Sudan also presents increased risks of recruitment of minors by armed forces and sexual exploitation. These children, already victims of violence and displacement, are particularly vulnerable to abuse and violations of their most fundamental rights.
It is therefore crucial that the international community mobilizes the necessary resources to support the children of Sudan and ensure a better future for them. UNICEF and other humanitarian organizations are working tirelessly to provide essential assistance to children affected by war, but their action cannot be fully effective without the financial and political support of the international community.
The situation in Sudan is a tragic reminder of the urgency of ending armed conflicts and protecting the rights of children, who are the real victims of these crises. It is time to act and do everything we can to provide refuge and hope to the children of Sudan, who deserve to grow up in peace and security.