One year after a bloody power struggle ignited a brutal war in Sudan, France and Germany are leading a critical aid conference in Paris today. The urgent aim: secure funding to avert a looming famine threatening millions.
French Foreign Minister Stéphane Séjourné, German counterpart Annalena Baerbock, and EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell are spearheading the event. Representatives from aid groups on the ground and neighboring countries will also join the crucial talks.
The conflict pits Sudan’s de facto ruler, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, against his former deputy, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, who leads the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Their violent pursuit of power has triggered the world’s largest refugee crisis, displacing a staggering 8.6 million people according to the UN, with some estimates exceeding 9 million.
The war’s relentless artillery fire, rocket attacks, and airstrikes have ravaged Sudan, including the capital Khartoum. The humanitarian situation is dire, with severe shortages of medicine and basic necessities. Last month, the UN issued a terrifying warning: famine conditions threaten millions. “A true nightmare,” declared Edem Wosornu of the UN’s humanitarian arm.
Amnesty International has documented war crimes by both sides, including civilian casualties and sexual violence.
The Paris meeting begins with crucial political consultations involving ministers from over 20 countries, particularly Sudan’s neighbors, alongside key international organizations. Germany, a previous major donor, seeks to coordinate existing mediation efforts.
With only 5% of the UN’s estimated $4.1 billion in emergency aid currently funded, France emphasizes ensuring safe access for aid workers and supporting overwhelmed refugee centers in the region.