Mirjana Spoljaric, President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), concluded her visit to Sudan, focusing on measures to address the severe humanitarian crisis impacting millions across the country.
“The humanitarian crisis in Sudan is primarily a result of the disregard for the laws of war. More than eight million people have been displaced, left without essential services, and thousands have lost contact with family members. Without urgent intervention, the consequences of this conflict could persist for decades,” stated Spoljaric.
During her visit, Spoljaric met with General Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, President of Sudan’s Sovereign Council, emphasizing the need for enhanced cooperation to ensure the safety of humanitarian workers and access to vulnerable communities. She reiterated ICRC’s commitment to expanding its efforts to support affected populations throughout Sudan.
“Neutral humanitarian work must be safeguarded to prevent further deterioration of the crisis. It is the duty of all parties involved in the conflict to uphold this space and abide by international humanitarian law, ensuring civilian access to relief,” Spoljaric added.
Spoljaric also met with Sudan Red Crescent Society (SRCS) leaders, President Salih El Douma and Secretary-General Aida Elsayed, at SRCS headquarters in Port Sudan. Together, the ICRC and SRCS are providing crucial aid and protection services to millions, though access restrictions and instability limit aid delivery to many communities hardest-hit by the conflict.
ICRC and SRCS teams are managing hundreds of requests weekly from individuals seeking information on missing loved ones, with the ICRC alone handling over 3,000 such cases since the conflict’s onset in April 2023.
The ICRC, a neutral and independent organization mandated by the Geneva Conventions, continues to provide critical support worldwide to people affected by conflict, upholding their dignity and striving to alleviate suffering in partnership with Red Cross and Red Crescent societies.
