The United Nations issued a dire warning Tuesday about the plight of children caught in Sudan’s ongoing conflict, calling it the world’s largest child displacement crisis.
With peace talks set to begin in Geneva on Wednesday, the urgency to end the violence is paramount.
UNICEF spokesperson James Elder painted a harrowing picture of the situation, stating that thousands of children have been killed or injured since the war erupted.
An average of 10,000 children are being displaced daily, bringing the total number of displaced youngsters to a staggering five million.
Elder also expressed deep concern over the lack of reporting on atrocities against children due to limited access to affected areas.
As the US-sponsored peace talks commence, the prospects for a ceasefire remain uncertain.
US Special Envoy Tom Perriello acknowledged challenges in securing commitments from both warring parties, Burhan-controlled SAF and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
While preliminary engagements have taken place, the envoy emphasized the need for concrete commitments from Burhan-controlled SAF to move forward with the peace process.
The first round of negotiations is expected to last up to ten days, with the hope of initiating face-to-face discussions to advance the peace process.
The international community is watching closely as the fate of millions of Sudanese children hangs in the balance.