Sir, – Regrettably, as humanitarians, we reflect on 2023 as a year marked by mass global displacement stemming from armed conflict, persecution, human rights violations, severe weather events, and sudden natural disasters.
Specifically, we witnessed a surge in global conflict and violence, with a notable and understandable emphasis on the sheer horror of war in Ukraine and Gaza.
In mid-April 2023, conflict broke out in Sudan, resulting in a now nine-month-old intense crisis that has claimed over 9,000 lives, displaced 7.3 million people internally and across borders, and left 24.7 million in need of humanitarian aid. The toll on education is especially grim, with 19 million Sudanese children deprived of schooling.
Despite these dire circumstances, the Sudan conflict is often labelled the “forgotten war” in humanitarian circles. This term reflects the belief that the intricate nature of the conflict, involving multiple armed groups, ethnic tensions, political instability, and severe economic hardship, has led to insufficient global attention, media coverage, and support. Unlike conflicts involving major powers, Sudan is perceived as a regional issue, diminishing interest and resources for resolution.
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This complexity makes it challenging for the media to provide a concise and digestible narrative, and without direct implications on powerful nations’ interests, Sudan remains on the periphery of global attention. This “forgotten war” label hampers the mobilisation of crucial resources needed to alleviate human suffering. Adequate funding, international intervention, and diplomatic efforts are imperative to address the conflict’s root causes and provide humanitarian assistance.
Humanitarianism is dedicated to championing the essential dignity and respect of all human beings, and serving, supporting, and advocating on behalf of the most marginalised people. Let’s recognise and highlight the Sudan war, halt the downward spiral, mobilise resources and advocate for international intervention. This is the essence of humanitarianism. – Yours, etc,
PAUL WESTBURY,
Global Safety and Access Adviser
(based in Rwanda),
Goal Global,
Dún Laoghaire,
Co Dublin.