Sudan has been named the world’s most critical humanitarian crisis zone for 2026 by the International Rescue Committee (IRC), marking its third straight year atop this grim ranking. The announcement comes as conflict continues to devastate the African nation, displacing over 12 million people since fighting erupted in 2023.
🔥 Crisis Hotspots Revealed
Nine African countries dominate the IRC’s top 10 emergency watchlist, with South Sudan, Ethiopia, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo following Sudan. Myanmar, Ukraine, and Yemen also made the list of 20 nations projected to host over half of the world’s extreme poor by 2029.
💔 A System in Collapse
IRC CEO David Miliband called Sudan’s crisis—now the largest ever recorded—a direct result of global failures: "This isn’t accidental neglect. Our actions are fueling these disasters." Aid workers report extreme violence against displaced families, including widespread rape and armed robberies, while resources remain critically low.
📊 By the Numbers
20 watchlist countries = 89% of global humanitarian needs
12% of world population → 50% projected extreme poverty by 2029
12M+ displaced in Sudan alone since 2023
As 2025 draws to a close, the IRC warns that without urgent action, next year could see unprecedented suffering across multiple continents.
