Hundreds Honor Sudanese Rafto Prize Laureates in Bergen

The Rafto Prize 2025 was awarded to the Sudanese grassroots network Emergency Response Rooms (ERRs). Several hundred people joined a torchlight procession through the center of Bergen to honor ERRs and their courageous work to protect the most fundamental human right – the right to life in war-torn Sudan.

ERR on stage in Bergen

Sudan is facing one of the world’s most underreported humanitarian catastrophes, where civilians struggle every day to survive violence and starvation. ERR members continue to provide life-saving mutual aid, strengthening communities and keeping a hope for a democratic Sudan alive under almost impossible conditions.

Three representatives and volunteers accepted the award on stage on behalf of the Sudanese network. They consist of thousands of volunteers who engage in collaborative, community driven efforts to meet urgent humanitarian needs of others, at great personal risk.

- To the brave men and women trapped inside Sudan, enduring unimaginable hardship; to the displaced families scattered across borders your struggle is not in vain. We see you. We hear you. And we will never stop fighting to make your voices heard, to protect your right to live in peace and dignity, said Saddam from ERR on stage in Bergen, Norway.

Chair of the Rafto Prize Committee Ingrid Hoem Sjursen praised ERRs’ extraordinary bravery before presenting this year’s Rafto Prize Diploma.

- The prize is a recognition of the significance of grassroot mobilization and collective effort in ensuring basic human rights in times of conflict. The need for protection of human rights and humanitarian assistance is becoming greater by the day. In these trying times, we must all stand in solidarity with the people of Sudan, said Sjursen.

Don’t look away from Sudan

Following the ceremony, volunteer student leaders of the Rafto Foundation delivered a strong appeal to those gathered outside Ole Bull Scene, urging the world not to ignore the grave humanitarian crisis unfolding in Sudan.

- We call upon you, the people in Bergen and the international community to not look away from Sudan. The conflict is not forgotten, but ignored, Rafto's Student leaders said to the big crowd that gathered in solidarity with the Rafto laureate.

Hundreds of people joined the torchlight procession in support of human rights and peace in Sudan.