The Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Simon Harris TD, along with the Minister of State for International Development, Neale Richmond TD, have announced an additional €3 million in humanitarian funding for Sudan, bringing Ireland’s total support for the country in 2025 to €14.3 million. This funding aims to assist UN agencies in delivering urgent humanitarian relief to the most affected communities amid Sudan’s escalating crisis.
Sudan is currently experiencing the world’s worst humanitarian disaster, with 12 million people forcibly displaced and around nine million facing the immediate risk of famine. The funding will support relief efforts addressing food shortages, health care, protection, and essential services for displaced populations.
Speaking during UN High Level Week in New York, the Tánaiste highlighted the severity of the crisis, emphasizing the urgent need for the international community to pressure parties in Sudan to reach a negotiated settlement that preserves the country’s territorial integrity. He stressed that the suffering of the Sudanese people must end, with millions facing daily hardships and the looming threat of famine.
Minister of State Richmond underscored the growing humanitarian crisis, noting the enormous scale of displacement and food insecurity. He expressed concern about the high levels of sexual and gender-based violence in the conflict and emphasized that Ireland will continue supporting relief efforts while advocating for the protection of civilians.
The announced €3 million will be split equally between the Sudan Humanitarian Fund, managed by UN OCHA, and UNHCR. Funding to UN OCHA will focus on protection, nutrition, and health initiatives, while support for UNHCR will provide water, sanitation, shelter, and other assistance to displaced people within Sudan and in neighboring countries.
During UN High Level Week, the Tánaiste will participate in the opening session of the UN General Assembly and engage with the Irish community in New York, while Minister Richmond will attend events on financing for development and consult with members of the Irish diaspora, reinforcing Ireland’s commitment to both humanitarian action and international advocacy.
