Sudan's Gender Situation Receives a Crisis Classification from the United Nations Amidst Intensifying Conflict
In the heart of Africa, Sudan is facing one of the world's worst humanitarian crises, with over 30 million people in dire need of assistance amid ongoing conflict, displacement, and economic collapse. The plight of women and girls, however, stands out as particularly alarming.
Healthcare Collapse and Maternal Risk
Critical healthcare services have nearly collapsed, making it almost impossible for new mothers to access essential reproductive care. This puts their lives, as well as those of their babies, at serious risk.
Escalation of Gender-Based Violence
Reports of gender-based violence (GBV) are escalating, with intimate partner violence, sexual exploitation, abuse, and trafficking becoming increasingly prevalent. Survivors struggle to find support, and sexual violence is alarmingly prevalent, especially in conflict-affected areas like Darfur.
Economic Hardship and Vulnerability
Many women have lost their livelihoods due to the economic collapse, forcing some into exploitative situations and increasing their vulnerability. Women-led households are three times more likely to experience severe food insecurity compared to male-headed households, with 75% unable to meet basic food needs.
Displacement and Targeting of Civilians
The conflict has caused the largest displacement crisis in the world since the Syrian civil war, with millions internally displaced. Women and children bear the brunt of these displacements and are exposed to attacks and violence.
Insufficient Humanitarian Response and Risks for Aid Workers
Humanitarian efforts are ongoing but hampered by insecurity, funding shortages, and targeted attacks on aid infrastructure and workers, worsening access to assistance.
Despite these dire conditions, women are also acting as agents of change in Sudan by leading grassroots efforts to support displaced families and communities, although they remain largely excluded from decision-making processes.
In summary, the humanitarian crisis in Sudan remains one of the world’s worst as of mid-2025. Women and girls face exceptional vulnerabilities due to healthcare collapse, GBV, displacement, food insecurity, and economic marginalization. Urgent, gender-sensitive humanitarian action is critical to address their needs and protect their rights.
[1] UN Women, Amnesty International, International Rescue Committee, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) reports [2] UN Official Reports [3] UN Women Representative in Sudan, Salvator Nkurunziza statements [4] Sudanese Organisation for Research and Development (SORD) reports [5] Reports from Women for Women International and other humanitarian organisations operating in Sudan.
