The UN relief chief, Tom Fletcher, has described Sudan as the world’s worst humanitarian crisis, warning that international inaction risks defining this era by “indifference and impunity.”
In a statement on Thursday, Fletcher questioned when the international community would deliver on its promise to protect the Sudanese people, noting that over 30 million, more than half the population, urgently need aid amidst relentless violence from Kordofan to Darfur.
Fletcher highlighted mounting civilian deaths, the collapse of Sudan’s health system, and the rapid spread of diseases like cholera and measles as the lean season begins.
He condemned the “pitiful” support for aid appeals, asking, “Where is the funding?”
Additionally, he criticized repeated attacks on hospitals, infrastructure, and aid convoys, including a recent deadly assault on a UN humanitarian convoy in North Darfur.
He emphasized that “talk has not translated into real protection for civilians” or safe humanitarian access, demanding, “Where is the accountability?”
Fletcher urged those with influence to “step up,” protect civilians, guarantee safe access for humanitarians, fund their work, and insist on agreements for humanitarian pauses to reach the worst-hit areas.
He concluded by calling for a revival of human solidarity and determination to hold those responsible for the crisis accountable, so this time is not defined by “indifference and impunity.”