Germany: Sudan Aid Conference in Berlin Raises €1.3B

As the fourth year of the Sudan conflict unfolds, international focus has shifted to other crises, yet Berlin’s aid gathering sought to reignite attention on the humanitarian plight. The event, hosted by Germany on Wednesday, collected over €1.3 billion in commitments, surpassing last year’s £1 billion target. This figure includes €212 million pledged by Germany, alongside additional contributions from the UK and Norway.

Aid Pledges and Funding Gaps

Despite budgetary pressures, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul emphasized the need to counteract the impact of U.S. aid reductions under the Trump administration. He stated that Germany would allocate another €20 million to Sudan’s humanitarian efforts, building on the €155.4 million already earmarked. “Humanitarian aid and diplomacy must unite to protect lives,” Wadephul asserted, stressing the urgency of the situation.

German Development Minister Reem Alabali Radovan highlighted the country’s continued support, noting the €20 million addition to previous commitments. “We must not let this crisis fade into the background,” she remarked, underscoring the global responsibility to address Sudan’s suffering.

International Support and Regional Tensions

The conflict, which began in 2019 following the removal of dictator Omar al-Bashir, has created a stark divide. The Sudanese military, led by Abdel-Fattah Burhan, controls northern, eastern, and central regions, while the paramilitary RSF, under Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, holds sway in Darfur and parts of Kordofan. The war has drawn international actors, with Egypt backing the military and the UAE reportedly supporting the RSF, though the latter denies direct involvement.

Global attention has been diverted by wars in Iran and Ukraine, yet the toll in Sudan remains severe. Over 146 million pounds (approximately €168 million) from the UK and €42 million from Norway were pledged, reflecting varied international responses. The UN humanitarian chief, Tom Fletcher, noted that the world has failed to meet Sudan’s urgent needs, calling the situation a “grim and chastening anniversary” of collective neglect.

Humanitarian Crisis and Calls for Ceasefire

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres delivered a video message, warning that the conflict’s effects extend beyond Sudan’s borders, threatening regional stability. He urged an end to the violence, which has displaced millions and intensified sexual violence, particularly in Darfur where RSF forces face allegations of war crimes.

British Foreign Minister Yvette Cooper stressed the importance of international cooperation, urging pressure on warring parties to achieve a ceasefire. “Countries from across the world are coming together here in Berlin to discuss the international community’s failure to support Sudan,” she said, emphasizing the need for unified action to curb weapon flows and stabilize the nation.