Discussions in Switzerland on Sudan will focus on humanitarian aid
Talks on the ongoing conflict in Sudan are set to begin in Switzerland on Wednesday, focusing on humanitarian aid for millions facing hunger and displacement amidst the brutal war.
The U.S. has invited both warring parties to the talks, although the specific location in Switzerland remains undisclosed for security reasons.
Since April 2023, Sudan has been embroiled in a power struggle between the army and paramilitary militias. Experts report that famine is already affecting North Darfur, where hundreds of thousands have sought refuge. The UN has described the situation as the world’s largest refugee crisis and a humanitarian disaster, with over 25 million people threatened by hunger.
Many areas remain inaccessible to aid workers due to the conflict. If the warring parties do not attend the talks, technical experts will discuss ways to improve humanitarian access.
The conflict has displaced more than 10 million people, with many fleeing across borders. Both sides are reportedly obstructing aid convoys. Furthermore, the UN’s appeal for $2.7 billion in funding for this year has only garnered about one-third of the necessary amount.
Welthungerhilfe, a German charity, is calling for humanitarian corridors in light of the worsening famine. Matthias Mogge, the charity’s secretary-general, emphasized that Sudan is facing the world’s most severe humanitarian crisis, with more than 25 million people in critical food situations and 755,000 at acute risk of starvation.
