Millions in Sudan Face Hunger Crisis: Macron Announces €2 Billion in Aid
French President Emmanuel Macron declared on Monday that a staggering €2 billion ($2.1 billion) had been pledged by Paris and its allies to address the severe hunger crisis in Sudan. This announcement came at the conclusion of a high-level conference in Paris, attended by top diplomats from France, Germany, and the European Union, where urgent funding for Sudan was emphasized on the first anniversary of the conflict.
Among the attendees were French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, EU’s top diplomat Josep Borrell, and the EU’s Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarcic, along with representatives from Sudan’s civil society. Macron highlighted that the funds mobilized would be crucial in meeting the most pressing needs of Sudan’s population, emphasizing the dire situation in the country as one of the worst humanitarian crises globally, with a looming risk of famine.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also raised concerns about potential war crimes and crimes against humanity in Sudan, citing indiscriminate attacks on civilians during the conflict between the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the army. The situation in Sudan has led to the largest internal displacement crisis globally, with 8 million people forced to flee their homes, and millions facing the threat of starvation.
Germany announced an additional €244 million in humanitarian aid for Sudan, while the United Kingdom and the United States pledged significant amounts to support the region. Despite the urgent need for aid, the UN’s humanitarian campaign in Sudan remains severely underfunded, with only a fraction of the required funds secured.
The conflict in Sudan began with a coup that toppled the civilian government, leading to a power struggle between the military and paramilitary forces. The ongoing violence has resulted in thousands of casualties and widespread displacement, with recent clashes near Darfur claiming more lives.
As the crisis in Sudan continues to escalate, diplomats and humanitarian organizations are calling for increased international attention and support to prevent a catastrophic hunger catastrophe. The situation in Sudan, described as a “forgotten crisis,” demands immediate action to avert further suffering and loss of life.
