Sudan Tops Humanitarian Crisis Watchlist for Third Consecutive Year. Khartoum, Sudan — Sudan has been ranked at the top of the International Rescue Committee’s (IRC) annual Emergency Watchlist for the third year running, reflecting the ongoing devastating civil war that has engulfed the nation.
The list, published on December 17, identifies 20 countries facing the risk of escalating humanitarian crises in 2026.
The IRC’s report, titled “New World Disorder, “underscores the intensifying humanitarian crises and the significant decline in global funding intended to support vulnerable communities. It highlights that many conflicts worldwide are fueled by power and profit struggles.
In Sudan’s case, the IRC points out that the warring factions and their international allies are benefiting from the gold trade, which has severe consequences for civilians.
Africa accounts for a significant portion of the countries on the watchlist, with six of the world’s 10 most crisis-affected nations and half of all active conflicts located on the continent.
The other African nations on the list are South Sudan, Ethiopia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mali, and Burkina Faso. This situation reflects the deepening impact of conflict, political instability, climate shocks, and economic stress across various regions.
The 20 countries on the list represent 12 percent of the global population but account for 89 percent of humanitarian needs.
The list also includes Haiti, Lebanon, Ukraine, and Syria, which have been embroiled in civil wars for over a decade.
The IRC warns that without urgent action from those with the power to make a difference, 2026 could become the most dangerous year yet.
The organization is calling for a series of binding actions in response to global crises, including the suspension of the United Nations Security Council’s veto power in cases of mass atrocities. Sudan’s turmoil began in April 2023 when a power struggle between the military and the Rapid Support Forces, a powerful paramilitary group, escalated into open conflict.
The war has resulted in over 40,000 deaths, according to United Nations figures, but aid groups believe the actual number could be much higher.
The conflict has led to the world’s largest humanitarian crisis, with over 14 million people displaced, disease outbreaks, and famine spreading across parts of the country. Further details are expected as the situation continues to evolve.
