UK, EU boost Sudan aid amid conflict

The European Union, EU, and the United Kingdom have pledged increased humanitarian aid for Sudan, ahead of a high-level conference in London marking two years since the outbreak of the country’s brutal civil conflict.

The war, which erupted in April 2023 following a power struggle between Sudan’s national army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, has derailed a hoped-for democratic transition, killed thousands, displaced millions, and devastated regions like Darfur. The conflict has also drawn in multiple foreign actors.

In response to the escalating crisis, the EU and its member states announced over €522 million in aid, while Britain pledged an additional £120 million.

The new funding aims to address mounting humanitarian needs, with over 30 million Sudanese in urgent need of assistance and 12 million already displaced.

UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, speaking at the start of the London conference, stressed the importance of global engagement and peaceful resolution.

“We do need patient diplomacy,” Lammy said. “We cannot resign ourselves to inevitable conflict. We cannot be back here, one year from now, having the same discussion.”

The conference is co-hosted by the UK, the European Union, the African Union, France, and Germany. Other attendees include Egypt, Kenya, and the United Arab Emirates.

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However, Sudan’s transitional government has criticised the gathering, claiming it was excluded from participation along with representatives of the RSF.

Sudan’s Foreign Minister voiced concerns directly to Lammy, particularly about the inclusion of the UAE and Kenya. Sudan has accused the UAE of arming the RSF—allegations supported by UN experts and U.S. lawmakers.

A case has been filed against the UAE at the International Court of Justice in The Hague, although the UAE has denied the charges and called for the case to be dismissed.

Sudan also recalled its ambassador to Kenya after the country hosted talks with the RSF and its allies aimed at forming a rival administration.

Speaking on behalf of the UAE, Assistant Minister for Political Affairs Lana Nusseibeh urged peace and accountability. “As Sudan’s devastating war enters its third year, the United Arab Emirates issues an urgent call for peace,” she said, acknowledging that both sides were committing atrocities and obstructing humanitarian access.

Luca Renda, UNDP Resident Representative in Sudan, expressed hope that the London conference would lead to a more unified global response. “The Sudanese people are tired of this war,” he said. “We must do more.”

NAN