Counting the costs of war: A holistic, multi-level assessment of the impact of conflict on Sudan

Abstract

This paper investigates the impact of Sudan's armed conflict, which began on 15 April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The conflict has led to large-scale destruction, exacerbating the pre-existing humanitarian crisis context and undermining recovery efforts. Key sectors, including the economy, health, agriculture, and education, have become almost dysfunctional, and the governance system has collapsed, leading to widespread corruption and disruption of state service delivery. By analysing the severe consequences of the conflict, this study reveals the unprecedented decline in Sudan's state capacities across multiple sectors and the dismantlement of the foundations of survival and resilience. Methodologically, this research draws primarily on data collected through comprehensive desk-based methods in addition to informal interviews. The paper concludes with the findings and discusses the policy implications, with a particular emphasis placed on reconstruction and recovery in Sudan.