The humanitarian crisis in Greater Darfur, Sudan

Waiting for water - Darfur - Sudan Photo : Peter Holdsworth

The humanitarian crisis in Darfur – one of the poorest regions of Sudan - has become the worst in the world since hostilities broke out in February 2003, according to the UN. The situation is still extremely worrying and most experts warn that it could deteriorate further. It is estimated that between 180,000 and 300,000 people have died as a result of this conflict. About 2,5 million people are affected by the crisis, which is more than a third of the total population of Darfur. 1,8 million people have been displaced inside Darfur, and more than 200,000 people have fled across the border into Chad. Serious violations of human rights have been reported by the UN and human rights organisations.

Relief organisations are still facing problems reaching people in need, due to insecurity, poor road infrastructure, the size of the territory affected (roughly equivalent to France), and the ongoing rainy season. Therefore, according to the United Nations, needs in most sectors (food, shelter, clean water, primary health care) are only being partially met.

The European Commission has urged the Government of Sudan to abide by its obligations regarding the protection of its own citizens. This includes actively disarming and prosecuting armed groups acting against civilians. The EC has also provided funds to organisations with an international mandate to protect vulnerable civilians. Following a ceasefire agreement between government and rebel forces in April 2004, the Commission agreed to provide €92 million to support African Union peace keeping efforts.

ECHO's response so far targets conflict-affected people in the Darfur region and refugees who have fled to Chad.