Sudan’s grassroots mutual aid groups–the Emergency Response Rooms (ERRs)–have been awarded the 2025 Chatham House Prize, in recognition of their crucial role in delivering humanitarian assistance during the ongoing war in Sudan.
Since April 2023, Sudan has been engulfed by a devastating war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), triggering one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises. Over thirteen million people have been displaced from their homes, with more than thirty-three million–around two‑thirds of the population–needing humanitarian assistance. The conflict has devastated infrastructure and left vast areas without functioning state institutions, or reliable access to basic services, with women and children most impacted by the lack of security, healthcare and livelihoods.
In this context, the ERRs have proven indispensable. These community networks are said to have been the difference between life and death for millions–saving lives in areas often inaccessible to international organizations. They provide essentials like food, water and medical supplies, and maintain or repair infrastructure such as power and water systems–all while under risk of attack and obstruction by the warring parties. Their work has been praised and recognized by several international bodies, including the Norwegian Nobel Committee, particularly for their impartial nature and attempts to provide aid to all those caught up in the conflict.
About the Chatham House Prize
The Chatham House Prize is voted for by Chatham House members, following nominations from the institute’s staff. The award is presented on behalf of the institute’s patron, His Majesty the King, representing the non-partisan and authoritative character of the Prize.
The Chatham House Prize was launched in 2005. Previous recipients of the Prize include Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Sir David Attenborough, the Committee to Protect Journalists and Médecins Sans Frontières.
