Sudan tops the global humanitarian crisis watchlist for the third consecutive year, as a devastating civil war continues to devastate the country. The International Rescue Committee (IRC) published its annual Emergency Watchlist, which included 20 countries at risk of worsening humanitarian crises in 2026.
The IRC report highlights the worsening global situation, describing it as a “New World Disorder,” marked by intensifying humanitarian crises and a sharp decline in global funding for vulnerable communities. Sudan, which has suffered from ongoing civil war, ranks first on the list. The second spot goes to the occupied Palestinian territories.
A Crisis Driven by Power Struggles
The IRC’s report points out that many of the conflicts worldwide, including those in Sudan, are driven by struggles for power and profit. In Sudan, the warring parties and their international backers benefit from the gold trade, which has devastating impacts on civilians.
The ongoing civil war in Sudan erupted in April 2023 when a power struggle between the military and the powerful paramilitary Rapid Support Forces escalated into open fighting. The IRC warns that without urgent intervention, the world risks seeing more intense and widespread humanitarian disasters in 2026.
Africa’s Dominance on the Humanitarian Crisis Watchlist
Africa dominates the latest watchlist, with six of the ten most crisis-affected countries located on the continent. These include South Sudan, which ranks third, as well as Ethiopia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mali, and Burkina Faso. The high presence of African nations on the list highlights the ongoing impact of conflict, political instability, climate shocks, and economic stress in the region.
The IRC report indicates that the 20 countries listed account for just 12% of the global population but represent a staggering 89% of the world’s humanitarian needs.
A Call for Urgent Action to Prevent Further Disasters
The IRC urges world leaders to take binding actions to address the global humanitarian crises. One of the group’s key recommendations is suspending the United Nations Security Council’s veto power in cases of mass atrocities, which has hindered global response efforts.
Sudan’s ongoing crisis, with over 40,000 reported deaths, has led to the largest humanitarian disaster globally. The war has displaced more than 14 million people, while disease outbreaks and famine continue to spread throughout the country. Aid groups warn that the actual death toll is likely much higher than reported.
The Global Implications of Sudan’s Crisis
Sudan’s ongoing humanitarian crisis is a grim reminder of the urgent need for action. The IRC’s warning emphasizes that 2026 could become the most dangerous year yet if world leaders fail to respond effectively. The report also includes other crisis-hit nations such as Haiti, Lebanon, Ukraine, Syria, and Yemen, all of which have been plagued by long-term conflicts.
