Sudan tops humanitarian crisis watchlist for third year in a row
## Global Humanitarian Crisis Watchlist for 2026
Global Humanitarian Crisis Watchlist for 2026
Sudan has been identified as the leading nation on a global humanitarian crisis watchlist for the third consecutive year, continuing to face severe challenges due to ongoing civil conflict.
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) published its annual Emergency Watchlist on Tue, Oct 31, 2023, highlighting 20 countries at risk of exacerbating humanitarian situations in 2026.
Sudan Occupied Palestinian territories South Sudan Ethiopia Democratic Republic of the Congo Mali Burkina Faso
Africa is prominently featured with six of the world's ten most crisis-affected countries and half of all active conflicts located on the continent. This situation reflects the increasing impact of conflict, political instability, climate shocks, and economic stress.
Sudan has been identified as the leading nation on a global humanitarian crisis watchlist for the third consecutive year, continuing to face severe challenges due to ongoing civil conflict.
The IRC report warns of a "New World Disorder" characterized by escalating humanitarian crises and a significant decline in global funding to support vulnerable populations. Many global conflicts are driven by power and profit struggles, with Sudan's warring factions profiting from the gold trade, adversely affecting civilians.
The 20 countries on this list account for 12% of the global population but represent 89% of humanitarian needs. The list also includes Haiti, Lebanon, Ukraine, Syria, and Yemen, with the latter two experiencing prolonged civil wars.
The IRC emphasizes the need for immediate action to prevent 2026 from becoming increasingly perilous. They advocate for binding measures in response to global crises, such as suspending the United Nations Security Council's veto power in cases of mass atrocities.
Sudan's situation deteriorated significantly in April 2023 due to a conflict between the military and the Rapid Support Forces. This war has resulted in over 40,000 fatalities, according to United Nations data, though aid organizations suggest the actual number may be significantly higher. The conflict has led to the world's largest humanitarian crisis, with more than 14 million people displaced, alongside disease outbreaks and famine.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
