The Overlooked Crises: Why Conflicts in Sudan and DR Congo Deserve Global Attention

By Godfred Zina

While the world closely follows the war in Ukraine, two of the most devastating humanitarian crises – those in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo) – continue to unfold with far less global attention. The situation in Sudan is deteriorating rapidly.

The United Nations warns of an escalating humanitarian disaster, with over 12 million people displaced, 3.4 million forced to flee the country, and 24.6 million facing severe hunger. This crisis has been exacerbated by the suspension of humanitarian operations by the World Food Programme and Médecins Sans Frontières due to intensified fighting.

Rising Violence in DR Congo

Meanwhile, in eastern DR Congo, violence has surged to alarming levels. Since January, approximately 7,000 people have been killed, according to the UN.

More than 2,500 bodies have been buried without identification, and civilians make up a significant portion of the casualties. Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, has reported around 3,000 deaths.

Armed groups such as the March 23 Movement (M23) and the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) continue to destabilize the region, inflicting widespread suffering.

Inadequate International Response

Efforts by the African Union, non-governmental organizations, and international institutions to provide humanitarian aid remain insufficient. The International Criminal Court (ICC) has attempted to hold perpetrators accountable, but justice has been slow and inconsistent.

Despite the ICC Prosecutor’s recent mission to DR Congo in February 2025, meaningful legal action remains elusive.

Why the Disparity in Global Attention?

The war in Ukraine dominates headlines due to its geopolitical significance, affecting European security, NATO’s strategic interests, and global energy markets. The recent return of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency and his pledge to end the conflict has further heightened media interest.

By contrast, Sudan and DR Congo receive global coverage only when atrocities reach their peak – such as the discovery of mass graves or large-scale refugee crises. This selective attention perpetuates a cycle of neglect and worsening humanitarian conditions.

The Consequences of Global Indifference

Ignoring the crises in Sudan and DR Congo allows humanitarian disasters to escalate unchecked, leading to prolonged instability, regional spillover effects, and mass displacement that could ultimately impact the West. The international community, particularly African governments and institutions, must advocate for a recalibration of global priorities to ensure these conflicts receive the urgency they demand.

A Call for African-Led Solutions

The solution must be driven from within Africa. Stronger regional diplomacy, more effective coordination by the African Union, and assertive media advocacy are crucial. African analysts, journalists, and institutions must push these conflicts into the global spotlight, ensuring that the world acknowledges them with the same gravity as the war in Ukraine.

Sudan and DR Congo are at a breaking point. The question is: will the world continue to look away, or will it finally act before it’s too late?

Godfred Zina is a freelance journalist and an associate with DefSEC Analytics Africa – a consulting agency specializing in the provision of accurate data and assessments on security, politics, investment, trade, and other risks within Africa. He is based in Accra, Ghana.