UN Unveils New Plans to Support Refugees in Sudan
UN Secretary-General António Guterres stressed that now is the time for the global community to stand with the Sudanese people, who have historically extended generosity to their neighbors during times of hardship.
Speaking at the High-Level Humanitarian Conference in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Guterres highlighted Sudan's role in sheltering displaced individuals from neighboring countries, including Eritrea, Chad, South Sudan, and Ethiopia. He commended the Sudanese people's resilience and hospitality, stating that the pledges made at the conference reflect a strong commitment to humanitarian support.
$6 Billion Response Plans for 2025
Guterres revealed that the UN will launch two major response plans for Sudan in 2025:
A Humanitarian Response Plan
A Refugee Assistance Plan
These initiatives require $6 billion in funding to support approximately 26 million people inside and outside Sudan. The scale of these emergency aid requests surpasses all previous UN appeals, underscoring the unprecedented needs of the Sudanese people.
The Escalating Sudanese Crisis
Describing the Sudanese crisis as "immense and brutal," Guterres warned that the conflict is spreading across the region, necessitating urgent intervention from the African Union and the international community. He emphasized the importance of:
Protecting civilians and humanitarian workers
Ensuring safe and sustainable aid access
Halting external military support and arms flows
Push for Ceasefire and Peace Initiatives
The Secretary-General reiterated that Sudanese citizens demand an immediate ceasefire and civilian protection. He confirmed that his personal envoy, Ramtane Lamamra, is actively engaging with warring parties to explore concrete steps for peace, including the full implementation of the Jeddah Declaration.
As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, Guterres made a global appeal:
"Ramadan is a time for peace, mercy, and giving. I urge you all to use your influence for good—support humanitarian aid, uphold international law, stop hostilities, and work towards the lasting peace that the Sudanese people desperately need."
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