The United Nations has designated the Sudan conflict as the world’s most severe humanitarian crisis, with over 30 million people requiring aid.
Of those, 16 million are children, facing dire conditions and unimaginable suffering, according to UNICEF.
The ongoing conflict, nearing its second year, has unleashed horrific violence and widespread famine.
Catherine Russell, UNICEF’s executive director, told the Security Council that an estimated 1.3 million children reside in famine-stricken areas.
More than 770,000 children are projected to suffer from severe acute malnutrition this year, facing death without immediate aid.
The conflict, erupting in April 2023, has resulted in at least 20,000 deaths and displaced over 14 million people.
Reports indicate that 80% of grave incidents against children involve killings or maimings, predominantly in Darfur, Khartoum, and Gezira province.
Sexual violence has become pervasive, with 12.1 million women and girls at risk, a staggering 80% increase from last year.
UNICEF data reveals 221 reported rape cases against children in 2024 alone, with victims as young as infants.
Christopher Lockyear of Doctors Without Borders condemned both warring factions for exacerbating civilian suffering.
He cited indiscriminate bombings, systematic sexual violence, and obstruction of humanitarian aid.
Lockyear urged the Security Council to move beyond resolutions and implement concrete actions to protect civilians and ensure aid delivery.
