Arabic version: السودانيون الأستراليون يتظاهرون من أجل الانتباه للصراع المستمر

The ongoing conflict in Sudan is being referred to as a ‘forgotten war’ despite the continuous reports of atrocities and humanitarian crises. According to ABC News, fourteen million people have been displaced and over 33 million require humanitarian assistance, with at least 150,000 fatalities reported.

Human rights organizations indicate that sexual violence has become a grim reality for many women and girls in Sudan, further intensifying the crisis. Denise Brown, the UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Sudan, referred to the situation as an ‘abandoned crisis’, highlighting the lack of global attention it receives.

For Sudanese Australians, the conflict feels painfully close, as many maintain connections with family and friends still in the war-torn country. Nidal Saeed, a Sudanese Australian, expressed the emotional toll the conflict has taken, saying, “It’s heartbreaking. We don’t sleep. We don’t eat.” Saeed frequently checks in on her cousin who has fled the fighting, sharing how distressing it is to hear updates from loved ones in danger.

In response to the ongoing crisis, Saeed organized a cultural fundraising event in Perth, aiming to raise awareness and support for those affected by the conflict. The event featured Sudanese food, fashion, and music, showcasing the rich heritage of Sudanese culture. Community leaders like Khamis Tombe emphasized the importance of maintaining cultural identity while advocating for increased international attention to the situation in Sudan.

While Australia has contributed over $60 million in humanitarian aid since the conflict began in 2023, the Refugee Council of Australia is urging the government to provide more substantial support. They are calling for increased refugee intake and pathways for Sudanese individuals on temporary visas to achieve permanent residency, stressing the need for a response comparable to that for crises in other regions, such as Ukraine and Afghanistan.