Sweden's government claims its support for Sudan remains strong, yet long-term aid has decreased sharply over the past year. Critics warn that relying solely on humanitarian aid is like providing first aid without follow-up care. This comes amid Sudan's worst humanitarian crisis ever.
The war in Sudan has escalated into the world's worst humanitarian crisis. At the end of October 2024, the paramilitary militia RSF (Rapid Support Forces) seized the city of al-Fashir in a brutal manner visible from space. The Swedish government faces criticism for arms sales to the United Arab Emirates, RSF's main backer, but Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard (M) and Aid Minister Benjamin Dousa (M) deny that Swedish weapons have reached the militia.
They highlight that Sweden was the EU's second-largest humanitarian donor to Sudan in 2024. Total aid this year amounts to over 600 million SEK, with 500 million for humanitarian efforts and 125 million for long-term support, according to the Foreign Ministry. Trends indicate a shift from long-term to emergency aid.
Peter Svensson, regional representative for Act Swedish Church, criticizes: “One provides first aid, but does not build up hospital care.” He stresses that humanitarian aid is vital but long-term support prevents disasters. Isabella Olsson, global advocacy head at the Medical Mission, agrees: “The humanitarian aid is life-saving... But it is short-term solutions. If we do not also work with long-term efforts, we cannot mitigate the crisis and build stability and sustainable development in the long run.”
Benjamin Dousa explains the prioritization: “Right now, our full focus is on reducing human suffering in Sudan... Then we must prioritize saving as many lives as possible.” The bilateral strategy for Sudan expired in 2022 and has been extended to December 31, 2025. Dousa states that a new strategy depends on the situation: “If the situation worsens further, we will continue to focus almost entirely on saving as many lives as possible.”
In neighboring South Sudan, long-term aid has been phased out, negatively impacting refugee assistance from Sudan, organizations warn.