SARC Advocates for Sudan at Key North American NGO Summit

OTTAWA, Canada – August 2025 – The Sudanese American Relief and Development Center (SARC) was a prominent voice at the concluded NGO Pre-Summit 2025, held in Ottawa this August. Represented by co-founder Professor Bakri Abdulkarim, the organization played a key role in shaping discussions ahead of the Second World Summit on Social Development.

The event, which brought together U.S. and Canadian-based social development actors, focused on building collaborative strategies for sustainable development. SARC’s participation, facilitated by a travel scholarship, was critical in ensuring the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan remained a central topic of dialogue.

Key highlights from SARC’s involvement included:

· Frontline Testimony: Professor Abdulkarim provided firsthand accounts of the dire situation in Sudan, moving the crisis from a abstract issue to a urgent priority for attending organizations.

· Strategic Networking: SARC forged new partnerships with North American NGOs, establishing a coalition aimed at amplifying advocacy and coordinating relief efforts.

· Policy Influence: The team contributed to policy recommendations focused on improving aid access and supporting diaspora-led organizations, ensuring these points will be forwarded to the main World Summit.

Professor Abdulkarim stated, “Our presence here was essential. We successfully integrated the plight of Sudan into the North American development agenda and built a stronger, coordinated network of allies to support our mission.”

SARC's active role at the summit underscores its evolution from a service provider on the ground to a leading advocacy voice on the international stage.

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