Two years of war in Sudan: Norway must mobilize support for the Sudanese volunteers who are saving lives

“International organizations are struggling to deliver aid to the 30 million people who are suffering in Sudan. They have no access. Since the war broke out, thousands of volunteers have kept the country from total collapse,” says Gry Ballestad, Head of Development and Humanitarian Cooperation at Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA).

The local lifeline is now under threat. A survey carried out by NPA among 85 local or national organizations in Sudan shows that 86 percent have been directly affected by the U.S. aid freeze.

“Thousands of Sudanese volunteers have provided the first – and often only – emergency assistance to people fleeing violence across the country. Last year, they were nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. This year, they are at risk of collapse,” says Ballestad.

“We are calling on Norway to mobilize greater support for civil society – they’re not just saving lives; they are the ones working to bring Sudan back on the path towards peace and democracy,” says Ballestad.

These are the same people who, in 2019, led the fight for freedom and democracy in Sudan. Now they are risking their lives to help others through grassroots initiatives known as Emergency Response Rooms – volunteer-led efforts to provide food, evacuation, and first aid across the country.

NPA has supported Sudanese civil society organizations since 2021 and Emergency Response Rooms since 2023. Now they need the support of the international community to survive and continue their life-saving work.

“All peace efforts have failed because civilians have been excluded. Norway must push for an inclusive peace process – one where women, youth, and civil society have a seat at the table – and ensure protection and support for those saving lives,” says Ballestad.

“Civilians in Sudan are on the front lines. The international community cannot turn its back now.”