Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband has warned that Sudan is facing the “worst humanitarian crisis of the 21st century” during an urgent address at the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
Speaking on 21 September 2026 as part of the 81st UN High-Level Week, Mr Miliband outlined a “three-pillar” strategy to address the escalating conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
The Foreign Secretary’s strategy focuses on diplomatic pressure to secure an immediate ceasefire, ensuring unimpeded humanitarian access to all regions, and establishing international accountability for atrocities committed against civilians. Mr Miliband emphasised that the protection of civilians and a transition back to a civilian-led government remain the UK’s primary objectives for the region.
The Scale of the Emergency
The scale of the displacement and hunger in Sudan has reached unprecedented levels. According to figures released by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) on the day of the speech, 8.6 million people remain internally displaced. The vast majority of the population is still living in precarious conditions.
The 2026 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan estimates that approximately 33 million people now require some form of emergency assistance. The UK government has committed £146 million in aid for the 2026/27 financial year.
Records from the UK Parliament confirm that this funding is part of a sustained commitment to the region.
Action and Accountability
A significant portion of the Foreign Secretary’s address focused on the “unacceptable” use of weaponry in civilian areas. Mr Miliband called for foreign powers to cease the supply of military equipment that fuels the ongoing violence.
