The humanitarian catastrophe in Sudan has been heavily highlighted within the European Union in recent weeks. Policymakers, lawmakers, and civil society actors across Europe have begun to engage more seriously with the conflict and its consequences. This growing concern was evident on February 23 when the crisis in Sudan was discussed at the headquarters of the European People’s Party in Brussels — an event organized by the European Democrat Students that brought together European parliamentarians, policy experts, researchers, journalists, and advisors.

As the largest parliamentary group in the European Parliament, the EPP holds considerable influence in shaping the EU’s political agenda. The decision to dedicate a formal forum to Sudan’s crisis signaled a recognition that the conflict is not merely a regional matter, but a global humanitarian emergency requiring sustained international engagement.

“The war in Sudan has produced the largest displacement crisis in the world today. Millions have been forced from their homes, while those who remain face devastating shortages of food, medicine, and basic services.” — Khalid Omar Youssef, Former Minister of Cabinet Affairs & Vice Chairperson, Sudanese Congress Party

A Nation Pushed to the Brink

What began as a struggle for power has plunged a nation into suffering that continues to expand with each passing month. The keynote speaker, Khalid Omar Youssef — former minister of cabinet affairs and vice chairperson of the Sudanese Congress Party — provided a sobering overview of the situation on the ground. Millions of Sudanese have been forced to flee their homes, while those who remain often face acute shortages of food, medicine, and basic services.

Equally disturbing are the widespread human rights violations reported during the conflict. Civilians — particularly women and minority communities — have suffered enormously. Religious sites have been vandalized, including churches that represent Sudan’s Christian heritage. Such acts deepen the wounds of war and threaten the social fabric of a country long defined by its diversity. These crimes must be thoroughly investigated and those responsible must be held to account.

No Military Solution

Beyond the humanitarian dimension, discussions in Brussels also focused on the political path forward. Youssef stressed unequivocally that there is no military solution to Sudan’s crisis. Continued fighting will only prolong the suffering of ordinary citizens while pushing peace further out of reach. Instead, he pointed to the diplomatic framework advanced by the international “Quad” as a potential roadmap for ending the conflict.

Central to any progress, however, is the need for an immediate and unconditional humanitarian ceasefire. Without a halt to the violence, aid agencies cannot operate effectively and millions of displaced Sudanese remain trapped in devastating uncertainty. A ceasefire would not only save lives — it would create the necessary space for political dialogue aimed at restoring civilian governance.

Spoilers and Structural Obstacles

Another concern raised during meetings with European lawmakers and policy experts was the role played by remnants of Sudan’s former regime. According to Youssef, elements associated with the Islamist movement that once dominated Sudanese politics have attempted to exploit the turmoil of war in order to obstruct peace efforts. Addressing this challenge — including through stronger international scrutiny — may prove essential in preventing spoilers from prolonging the conflict.

Importantly, European policymakers were also briefed by civil society organizations and human rights advocates working directly with affected communities. Their testimonies helped underscore the urgent need for sustained international attention. The discussions in Brussels were constructive not simply because they examined the crisis, but because they provided an opportunity for Sudanese voices to be heard within European decision-making circles.

The Strongest Force Remains the Sudanese People

Yet the most powerful force for change in Sudan remains its own people. Sudanese civil society has continued to mobilize despite immense hardship, advocating for peace, justice, and democratic governance. These efforts echo the spirit of the country’s December Revolution, when citizens across Sudan demanded dignity, freedom, and accountability.

For millions of displaced Sudanese, peace would mean more than the end of gunfire. It would mean the possibility of returning home, rebuilding communities, and restoring hope after years of instability. Refugees scattered across neighboring countries and beyond share the same aspiration: to one day return to a Sudan that is stable, inclusive, and free from tyranny.

Europe’s Responsibility — and the World’s

The attention now being given to Sudan within the European Union is both necessary and timely. Diplomatic engagement alone will not end the war, but it can help mobilize international pressure, humanitarian assistance, and political support for a negotiated settlement.

Sudan’s tragedy cannot be allowed to fade into the background of global crises. The war must end — not only for the sake of regional stability but, above all, for the millions of Sudanese who deserve the chance to live in peace. Their country belongs to all its citizens, regardless of religion or ethnicity, and their struggle for dignity, freedom, and justice must ultimately prevail.