Global Powers Convene in Berlin Over Sudan Crisis
Urgency Mounts as Sudan Crisis Outruns International Response
April 30th, 2026
On April 15, 2026, Berlin hosted the Third International Sudan Conference, bringing together Germany, France, the United Kingdom, the United States, the African Union, and the European Union alongside representatives from 55 countries, international organisations, and humanitarian actors. Held three years after the outbreak of war in Sudan, the conference aimed to coordinate international responses to what participants described as one of the most severe humanitarian crises.
A central focus of the conference was the humanitarian situation. According to figures presented, more than 13 million people have been displaced, including over 4 million who have fled to neighbouring countries. An estimated 33.7 million people now require assistance. Famine has been confirmed in several regions, and nearly 30 million people are in need of food aid. The communiqué also highlights that around 12 million people are at risk of gender-based violence, underscoring the civilian toll of a conflict that continues to intensify.
Alongside humanitarian concerns, the conference placed emphasis on the political process. Sudanese civilian representatives were given space in Berlin to push for an intra-Sudanese dialogue aimed at a ''civilian led transition''. The initiative aligns with ongoing mediation efforts, but remains conditional on a ceasefire that has yet to materialise.
Financial pledges were among the few tangible outcomes. Donors committed around 1.5 billion euros for humanitarian assistance, including more than 811 million euros from the European Union and its Member States. While significant, the figure reflects ongoing efforts to respond to a crisis whose scale and urgency continue to evolve on the ground.
The communiqué also delivers a sharp condemnation of ''abhorrent violence against civilians'' including attacks on humanitarian workers and civilian infrastructure. It warns that such acts ''may amount to war crimes or crimes against humanity'' and calls for accountability. At the same time, participants urged an end to external support for the warring parties, an appeal that has been repeated in previous international statements with limited visible effect.
The Berlin conference underscores the international community's continued engagement with Sudan's crisis. By bringing together diverse stakeholders and securing substantial financial commitments, it reinforces collective resolve around ceasefire, humanitarian access, and civilian protection. The meeting represents an important effort to maintain diplomatic momentum and coordinate international action. Realising these objectives will require sustained dialogue with all parties and the development of practical mechanisms to support implementation on the ground.
References:
- https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/newsroom/news/international-sudan-conference-berlin-2766850
- https://www.dw.com/en/berlin-hosts-sudan-conference-amid-brutal-forgotten-war/a-76798246
