Over 2 Billion Euros Raised for Sudan Aid Amid Year-long Conflict
French President Emmanuel Macron announced that donors have pledged more than 2 billion euros ($2.13 billion) to support Sudan during a conference in Paris. This commitment comes amid the first anniversary of a conflict in Sudan that humanitarian workers describe as neglected and devastating.
Efforts to assist the millions of people on the brink of famine due to the conflict have faced significant hurdles. Ongoing fighting between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), coupled with restrictions imposed by the warring parties and competing demands from other global crises, such as those in Gaza and Ukraine, have hindered relief efforts.
The situation in Sudan is worsening, particularly in and around al-Fashir, the last city in the western Darfur region not under RSF control. Hundreds of thousands of displaced individuals have sought refuge in this area.
During the conference, the European Union pledged 350 million euros, with France and Germany committing 110 million euros and 244 million euros, respectively. The United States pledged $147 million, and Britain promised $110 million.
Macron stressed the importance of coordinating international efforts to resolve the conflict and stop foreign support for the warring parties. He expressed concern that the funds mobilized may still be insufficient compared to what several powers have contributed to sustain the conflict.
As regional powers vie for influence in Sudan, allegations have emerged regarding the United Arab Emirates’ support of the RSF with arms. At the same time, the Sudanese army allegedly received weapons from Iran. Both sides have denied these allegations.
The ongoing conflict, rooted in power struggles preceding a planned transition, has led to infrastructure destruction, the displacement of millions, and disruptions in access to food and essential services.
The United Nations is seeking $2.7 billion for aid within Sudan and an additional $1.4 billion for assistance in neighboring countries hosting refugees. However, the aid effort faces challenges in gaining ground access, with the army and RSF obstructing access to vast areas of the country.
The conflict has resulted in thousands of civilian deaths, with both sides accused of war crimes. Macron underscored that these crimes would not go unpunished. Reports of ethnic cleansing in West Darfur have also emerged.
Recent violence in al-Fashir, including raids by RSF and allied militias, has led to further displacement and casualties. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that any attack on al-Fashir could escalate into full-blown intercommunal conflict in Darfur.
