New York: The Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Tom Fletcher, has issued a stark warning about the worsening crisis in Sudan, describing the country as a harrowing symbol of global neglect and unchecked violence.
In a recent statement, Fletcher condemned the international community's repeated failure to uphold its commitments to the Sudanese people.
“Time and again, we have pledged to protect the people of Sudan,” Fletcher said. “It is only fair they now ask us when, how, and if we intend to act on those promises.”
Sudan, now grappling with the world’s largest humanitarian emergency, has more than 30 million people — half its population — in desperate need of aid. Fighting across regions including Kordofan and Darfur has devastated communities, leaving countless civilians trapped, starving, and without access to basic necessities.
Fletcher highlighted the growing toll of indiscriminate violence — from shelling to drone and air strikes — which continues to claim lives and force mass displacement.
Calling for immediate action, the UN humanitarian chief urged the global community and all parties with influence to prioritize civilian protection, facilitate unimpeded humanitarian access, and provide essential funding. He also emphasized the urgency of securing agreements for humanitarian pauses and pushing for a durable, inclusive peace process.
“Those with power must act — not just with words, but with will and resources,” Fletcher said.
