Two years of conflict and crisis: The global cost of civil war and humanitarian collapse
- Yuki Kimura
- Apr 24
- 3 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
On 15 April 2023, a brutal civil conflict erupted between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), engulfing the nation in violence and despair. Now entering its third year, the war has triggered what the United Nations describes as the worst humanitarian crisis in the world today. The devastation threatens progress on no poverty, justice and strong institutions, and other core global goals that form the foundation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). With sustainability, climate action, and economic equality at stake, the future of not only Sudan but the broader global society hangs in the balance.
A worsening crisis and rising humanitarian needs
The roots of the conflict lie in the turbulent political transition following the 2019 ousting of former dictator Omar al-Bashir. Hopes for democracy were dashed by the October 2021 military coup, paving the way for violent power struggles that continue to destabilise the country.
In 2025, an estimated 30.4 million people in Sudan require urgent humanitarian assistance, a dramatic increase of 23% from 24.8 million in 2024. Despite the intensifying crisis, international response remains critically underfunded, placing millions of vulnerable children and families at risk.
More than 15.6 million children are now directly affected by the conflict. They face escalating threats of violence, abuse, displacement, and malnutrition. As the public health system collapses, over 3 million children are at risk of deadly epidemics, while 24 million people face acute food insecurity. Famine has already devastated five regions, placing hundreds of thousands of children at risk of starvation. Additionally, 17 million children are out of school, undermining long-term development and exacerbating cycles of poverty and instability.
Initiatives and the impact of underfunding
Organisations such as UNICEF are working under extreme constraints. Their expanded 2025 strategy focuses on conflict zones, displaced populations, refugees, and host communities. The three-pronged plus approach delivers life-saving and life-sustaining services, including nutrition, education, protection, and water and sanitation. To meet its objectives, UNICEF is seeking US$1 billion in funding to reach 13.1 million people, including 8.7 million children.
In addition, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) operates in more than 30 healthcare facilities across ten Sudanese states, providing emergency medical care and maternal health support. Meanwhile, local grassroots networks such as the Emergency Response Rooms (ERRs), formed by resistance committees, have reached over 11.5 million people with essential services.
However, with only 30% of required humanitarian funding secured, the well-being of millions remains in jeopardy. Inadequate funding severely hampers the ability to address acute malnutrition, curb disease outbreaks, and rebuild access to basic education and protection services key areas vital for achieving the SDGs.
The global society must respond not only with empathy but with coordinated action rooted in science, diplomacy, and sustainable development. International actors, from NGOs to state agencies and global institutions, have a duty to uphold commitments to Peace and Justice, environmental protection, and economic equality.
Drawing on historical lessons from post-conflict recovery in nations such as Rwanda, the path forward for Sudan must include investment in strong institutions, inclusive governance, and community-led development. These efforts must also consider the climate action implications of mass displacement, food insecurity, and damaged ecosystems.
The crisis in Sudan is not isolated; it reflects systemic fragility that challenges sustainability, peace, and human rights globally. As world changes accelerate whether due to climate, conflict, or economic instability the international community must recommit to the SDGs. Sudan is a critical test of this commitment.
Only through a united, well-funded, and holistic response can we ensure that future generations inherit a more just, equitable, and peaceful world.
To support humanitarian efforts and learn more about global initiatives, visit: https://www.unicef.org/appeals/sudan
