Switzerland and UN strengthen coordination of peace efforts in Sudan
Bern, 20.10.2026 — Switzerland and the United Nations are organising an international meeting in Geneva on 21 October 2026 focusing on peace efforts in Sudan. This sixth consultative meeting brings together states and international organisations working to find a solution to the conflict. As the humanitarian crisis continues to worsen, the meeting aims to strengthen the coordination of diplomatic initiatives, promote de-escalation and support an inclusive political process.
The meeting at the Palais des Nations is being jointly organised by Switzerland and the UN secretary general's personal envoy for Sudan, Pekka Haavisto. It will be co-chaired by the state secretary of the FDFA, Alexandre Fasel. Participants will include, in particular, Sudan's neighbouring countries, the permanent members of the UN Security Council and the main states involved in peace initiatives, as well as the African Union, the European Union, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development and the League of Arab States.
Since April 2023, Sudan has been torn apart by an armed conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces. This has led to a major humanitarian disaster, with some 34 million people currently in need of humanitarian aid. In the face of ongoing fighting and the worsening crisis, a negotiated political solution remains vital.
Coordination between peacebuilding and humanitarian aid
This meeting forms part of a process that began in June 2024. It aims to strengthen the complementarity and effectiveness of the various international initiatives, to support de-escalation efforts and to promote an inclusive and credible political process.
The meeting on 21 October will be preceded by discussions focusing on the humanitarian situation and respect for human rights in Sudan. Representatives from UN agencies and humanitarian organisations will present their analyses to the delegations and outline the challenges being faced on the ground. Priorities for discussion will include respect for international humanitarian law and improving humanitarian access.
Switzerland's active role facing the crisis in Sudan
In its work in Sudan, Switzerland combines humanitarian aid with peace diplomacy. Since the start of the conflict, it has allocated some CHF 217 million to humanitarian aid in the country and wider region, focusing on food security, support for displaced people and the protection of the civilian population. In keeping with its tradition of good offices, Switzerland also facilitates confidential exchanges between the different parties and supports the UN's mediation efforts.
The choice of the Palais des Nations as a venue highlights Switzerland's role as a host country and the importance of International Geneva as a centre for dialogue and multilateral diplomacy. The meeting forms part of Switzerland's work to promote greater coordination of international efforts to achieve lasting peace in Sudan.