An urgent appeal for humanitarian aid is being made by the European Resuscitation Council (ERC). The ERC has a long tradition of working closely with the National Resuscitation Council in Sudan in a joint effort to save the lives of people suffering from sudden cardiac arrest in that country. Today, an escalating conflict in the country is leading to a severe humanitarian crisis. Essential services such as water, sanitation and electricity have been disrupted and vital supplies are dwindling. Hospitals and communications infrastructure are under threat, and numerous atrocities have been reported. The international community must prioritise the protection of civilians and establish humanitarian corridors to meet the basic needs of those who remain, as well as those seeking refuge. The people of Sudan need global support now more than ever.