This edition of Exile Talks asks what is missing from the way Sudan is discussed—and how we can better understand the conflict beyond simplified narratives of "civil war."

Bringing together a Sudanese human rights activist and an exiled journalist, the conversation will examine both the humanitarian situation and the challenges of reporting on the conflict. We will discuss the conflict dynamics, the role of Sudanese civil society and the diaspora, the involvement of international actors, and how activists and journalists continue their work from exile.

The discussion will also explore the narratives that shape international coverage of Sudan. Whose voices are heard, what stories are reported, and which ones are rarely published in European media?

By combining journalistic and human rights perspectives, the event seeks to offer a more nuanced understanding of Sudan and to reflect on the responsibilities of media, policymakers, and international audiences when engaging with one of the devastating humanitarian crises of our time.

Speakers:
Aya Elsammani is a Sudanese journalist and media researcher whose work spans investigative reporting, fact-checking and visual storytelling. She has covered the war in Sudan and misinformation around it, and her recent work focuses increasingly on EU border control externalization, with publications in Sudanese, Arab and German media.

Magda El Sayed is a German-Sudanese political scientist and activist, and a member of the Bana Group for Peace and Development. Her work focuses on Sudan, anti-colonial resistance and liberation politics, and she is also involved in community-based empowerment and transnational solidarity initiatives.

Moderation: Andrea Böhm (journalist and author, reporter for international affairs focusing on African countries)

Stay for the conversation
After the talk, join us for drinks, snacks, and informal conversations. Meet the speakers, connect with others, and spend the evening exploring stories that cross borders and challenge perspectives.

Exile Talks is a monthly series highlighting the expertise and experiences of exiled journalists and media professionals. This event is financially supported by Berliner Landeszentrale für Politische Bildung.