The people of Sudan are at “imminent risk of famine,” United Nations agencies said on Friday, more than a year into a war between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Around 18 million people are already acutely hungry, including 3.6 million children who are acutely malnourished, according to a joint statement by U.N. chiefs, including Volker Turk, the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights.

“Time is running out for millions of people in Sudan who are at imminent risk of famine, displaced from their lands, living under bombardments, and cut off from humanitarian assistance,” the statement added.

Fighting broke out in the capital Khartoum in April 2023 and quickly spread across the country, reigniting ethnic bloodshed in the western Darfur region and forcing millions to flee in the world’s largest displacement crisis.

“Without an immediate and major step change, we will face a nightmare scenario: A famine will take hold in large parts of the country,” read the statement, which was also signed by U.N. aid chief Martin Griffiths.

The war broke out as long-simmering tensions over integrating the RSF with the army came to a head. The U.N. special adviser on the prevention of genocide said last week there was a risk of genocide in parts of Darfur.

A U.N.-backed report said in March that immediate action was needed to “prevent widespread death and total collapse of livelihoods and avert a catastrophic hunger crisis in Sudan.”

The conflict has had devastating effects on the civilian population, with widespread destruction of infrastructure, homes, and agricultural lands. Hospitals and schools have been bombed or abandoned, leaving millions without access to basic healthcare and education. The violence has also disrupted markets and supply chains, exacerbating food shortages and driving prices to unaffordable levels for many Sudanese families.

Humanitarian organizations are struggling to deliver aid to those in need due to the ongoing fighting and insecurity. Aid workers face significant risks, including targeted attacks, making it difficult to reach the most vulnerable populations. The U.N. has called for safe and unimpeded access for humanitarian assistance to all affected areas.

The international community has been urged to step up support for Sudan through increased funding for humanitarian operations and diplomatic efforts to broker a ceasefire. Neighboring countries are also experiencing the strain of the crisis, as hundreds of thousands of Sudanese refugees seek safety across borders.

In addition to the immediate humanitarian needs, there are concerns about the long-term impact of the conflict on Sudan’s development prospects. The disruption of education and economic activities could have lasting effects on the country’s human capital and economic recovery.

The U.N. has emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of the conflict, including political and economic inequalities, to achieve sustainable peace and development in Sudan. Efforts to promote dialogue and reconciliation among different ethnic and political groups are critical to prevent further escalation and build a stable and inclusive future for the country.

As the situation in Sudan continues to deteriorate, there is an urgent need for coordinated international action to prevent a full-blown humanitarian catastrophe. The U.N. and its partners are working tirelessly to mobilize resources and deliver life-saving aid, but the scale of the crisis requires a global response.

The world is watching as Sudan faces one of the most severe humanitarian crises in its history. The coming weeks and months will be crucial in determining whether the international community can come together to avert famine and support the people of Sudan in their hour of need.

The crisis in Sudan is compounded by a collapse of governance structures, which has led to lawlessness and the proliferation of armed groups. This has resulted in widespread human rights abuses, including sexual violence, extrajudicial killings, and forced recruitment of children into armed groups. The humanitarian response is further hindered by bureaucratic impediments and restrictions imposed by both warring factions, making it extremely difficult for aid organizations to operate effectively.

The agricultural sector, which is the backbone of Sudan’s economy, has been particularly hard hit. Farmers have been unable to plant or harvest crops due to the fighting, leading to a significant reduction in food production. This has exacerbated food insecurity and contributed to soaring food prices. Many rural areas have become inaccessible, cutting off communities from essential services and markets.

The health sector is also on the brink of collapse. The destruction of health facilities and the exodus of healthcare professionals have left millions without access to medical care. Outbreaks of diseases such as cholera, malaria, and measles are on the rise, further straining the already overstretched healthcare system.

The education sector has not been spared either. Schools have been damaged or destroyed, and many have been closed due to the insecurity. This has disrupted the education of millions of children, with long-term implications for the country’s future.

The psychosocial impact of the conflict is profound. The constant exposure to violence and displacement has left many traumatized, particularly children. There is an urgent need for mental health and psychosocial support services to help those affected cope with the trauma.

In this dire situation, the resilience of the Sudanese people is being severely tested. Despite the immense challenges, communities continue to demonstrate remarkable solidarity and resourcefulness. Local organizations and community leaders are playing a crucial role in providing support and advocating for peace and stability.

The international community must act swiftly and decisively to support Sudan. This includes not only providing immediate humanitarian assistance but also addressing the underlying drivers of the conflict. Diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire and facilitate political dialogue are essential. At the same time, long-term investments in development and governance reforms are needed to build a resilient and inclusive society.

The crisis in Sudan is a stark reminder of the devastating human cost of conflict. It calls for a renewed commitment to peace, justice, and human dignity. The world cannot afford to look away as millions of lives hang in the balance. It is imperative that we stand in solidarity with the people of Sudan and support their efforts to build a better future.