SUDAN – 15 April 2026
 

Three years on: deepening crisis and the risk of a lost generation

 
Three years into the war, Sudan continues to face a deepening humanitarian crisis that has disrupted every aspect of life. Insecurity, disease outbreaks and rising crime are redefining what safety means for millions. Across the country, children are growing up in fear, cut off from education, protection and stability, with no end to the conflict in sight. Despite its scale, the crisis remains underreported.

Children: Growing up in uncertainty

For children, the conflict has meant the loss of normalcy. School, friendships, and a sense of routine have been disrupted, replaced by uncertainty and instability.

“I miss my school and my friends the most,” says Amona, a 16-year-old girl.

Across different ages, children describe missing familiar environments and struggling with changes to their daily lives. Many express concerns about their education and future, unsure if they will be able to continue learning or achieve their goals.

“My biggest worry is not knowing what will happen next,” shares Logman, a 15-year-old boy.
 

Caregivers: Anchors of stability in crisis

At SOS Children's Villages, caregivers work to restore a sense of stability for children in their care. Following relocation from Khartoum to Kassala, they had to adapt to new environments and rebuild daily routines.

“The place is different, but the children still need the same care and attention,” explains Somaia, a caregiver.

Caregivers report changes in children’s mental health and behaviour, including anxiety, withdrawal, and difficulty adjusting to new surroundings. In response, they have focused on psychosocial support, strengthening relationships, and creating friendly environments where children can feel safe.

Despite displacement and ongoing challenges, caregivers continue to provide protection, emotional support, and a sense of belonging to children and young people.

 

Youth: A future on hold

For young people, the conflict has disrupted education and delayed the transition into independence. Many have been forced to pause their studies, limiting their ability to pursue careers and long-term goals.

“My education has been repeatedly interrupted. I had to put my plans on hold,” says Salim, a young man.

At the same time, young people in conflict-affected communities are taking on increased responsibilities within their households, supporting siblings and helping families cope with daily challenges. They identify instability, unemployment, and lack of opportunities as the biggest barriers they face.

Despite this, many remain hopeful.

 

A generational risk

Over 24 million children in Sudan are affected by this crisis. Disrupted education, increased protection risks, and limited economic opportunities are contributing to growing social instability.

Children are losing not only access to basic services, but also the ability to imagine and build a future.

Without sustained intervention, Sudan risks facing a generational crisis with lasting consequences for its recovery and development.

SOS Children’s Villages in Sudan has scaled up its response, delivering lifesaving assistance, restoring essential services, and supporting communities through access to safe water, protection, family reunification, education in emergencies and psychosocial support.

Since the onset of the conflict, SOS Children’s Villages has prioritised the safety and continuity of care for children, including relocation to safer areas and ensuring access to essential services.

This work has been made possible through the sustained support of partners and donors. However, the scale of needs continues to exceed available resources.

The international community must act now: a ceasefire, sustained humanitarian access and increased funding for local actors.

At this three-year mark, the message is clear: Sudan cannot remain in the shadows. The scale of this crisis demands sustained global attention and decisive action to protect children, support families and preserve the future of an entire generation.

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