On April 15th, Sudan's hopes for reviving the stalled democratic transition were devastated by the eruption of an armed struggle between two generals vying for power. They are waging an all-out war in the heart of the densely populated capital city. Meanwhile, tensions are rising, and conflicts are erupting in several other areas across the country.
The people of Sudan want no part in this war, calling for its immediate end and resisting any attempts to draw them into combat. But they are caught in the crossfire of this senseless, devastating, and violent battle, with thousands already injured or killed and hundreds of thousands forced to flee their homes. With banks closed, ATMs emptied, and cash becoming a rare commodity, basic survival, let alone paths to safety, are increasingly out of reach.
Activists for human rights and democracy are especially vulnerable in this desperate situation, due to their work that is inherently adverse to the parties of conflict, and their vulnerability is further exacerbated by intersecting factors such as age, gender identity and sexual orientation. Over the years, AMEL has trained thousands of young Sudanese activists through various educational initiatives. In addition to the network built up through these training programs, AMEL is also plugged into a range of activist networks in Sudan, as well as Sudanese diaspora all over the world.
To respond to the emergency situation, AMEL is activating its global networks to assist activists, their families, and other vulnerable individuals caught in the middle of combat zones in Sudan. Here are some ways that you can get engaged:
support AMEL’s emergency fund
follow the latest developments on the ground via AMEL’s Sudan Twitter list
sign up to volunteer with AMEL