On Monday, in an unprecedented diplomatic move to address Sudan’s deepening humanitarian crisis, the UK hosted high-level international talks in London which called upon global partners to act immediately. Officials from over 20 nations attended this summit aimed at coordinating aid deliveries, increasing diplomatic pressure and reinvigorating peace efforts amid worsening civil conflict which has left millions displaced and thousands dead.
David Cameron opened talks in Sudan with an impassioned message: “We cannot turn away; the international community must come together now in order to prevent this crisis from worsening further.”
Conflict between Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and Rapid Support Forces (RSF), both paramilitaries, has resulted in one of the world’s worst humanitarian catastrophes: over 8 million have been displaced; widespread famine and disease threaten vast regions across Sudan; over 400 people have lost their lives as a result of violence between 2023-2024.
Representatives from the UN, African Union, European Union and United States joined with UK in demanding immediate access for humanitarian organizations, an end to attacks against civilians and renewed efforts for ceasefire negotiations.
“Sudan is experiencing unbelievable suffering,” noted UN Under-Secretary for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths. “Time is running out and we must establish safe corridors for aid, or many lives will continue to be lost.”
Though the summit did not produce a formal ceasefire agreement, it did result in a joint declaration promising over $500 million in additional humanitarian assistance and creating a diplomatic taskforce to engage both warring factions.
Human rights organizations applauded this move but expressed concerns that without concrete measures to enforce accountability and protect civilians, the situation will worsen further.
Due to no obvious resolution in sight, Britain and its allies emphasized the significance of keeping Sudan high on the global agenda. Secretary Cameron stated, “Ignoring Sudan is no longer an option. Now is the time for action!”