The Director General of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Amy Pope, said the war has pushed Sudan to the brink and caused the largest displacement crisis in the world, as well as one of the most severe humanitarian emergencies.
She called for immediate and coordinated international action to help alleviate the “massive” humanitarian suffering caused by the conflict and to prevent further regional instability.
According to IOM statistics, more than 11.3 million people are internally displaced in Sudan, while an additional 3.9 million have fled across borders into neighboring countries over the past two years.
Marking two years since the outbreak of war in Sudan, the IOM called for urgent global action to prevent the escalation of regional instability as the conflict enters its third year.
Amy Pope stated that the war has claimed thousands of lives, torn families apart, and shattered the hopes and aspirations of millions who now face hunger, disease, and total economic collapse.
She added, “Even as violence continues, many displaced people are trying to return home, only to find utter devastation.”
She stressed that Sudan is in dire need of humanitarian assistance, as well as long-term investment to ensure the safe return of displaced people, empowering them and their communities to recover and rebuild their lives.
The IOM Director General warned that ongoing cross-border displacement, amid fragile conditions in neighboring countries like South Sudan and Chad, poses a growing risk to regional stability. She urged that the humanitarian response be complemented by sustainable and lasting solutions for returnees, refugees, their host communities, and local governments.
She also noted that the IOM’s response plan is currently only 10% funded, making an urgent appeal to the international community for immediate and sustainable financing to provide life-saving services.
Pope concluded: “The people of Sudan cannot wait. The international community must send a clear and unified message: the people of Sudan are not forgotten.”
