Sudan has been ranked as the world's most at-risk country for worsening humanitarian emergencies in 2026 by the International Rescue Committee (IRC), marking its third consecutive year atop the organization's annual Emergency Watchlist. The announcement, released Tuesday, underscores escalating challenges in a nation gripped by conflict since 2023.
IRC President David Miliband condemned the global response, stating Sudan's crisis—now the largest humanitarian emergency ever recorded—reflects systemic failures in international governance. Over 12 million Sudanese have been displaced since fighting erupted between the Sudanese Armed Forces and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, with widespread reports of violence against civilians and aid delivery bottlenecks.
The watchlist highlights a stark disparity: While the 20 listed countries contain just 12% of Earth's population, they account for 89% of global humanitarian needs. By 2029, these nations are projected to host over half of the world's extreme poor.
Other high-risk countries include South Sudan, Ethiopia, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo in Africa, alongside Myanmar, Ukraine, and Yemen. The IRC emphasized that current trends suggest worsening conditions without immediate coordinated action.
