As of February 2024, ERRs have provided help for more than four millions.[7][10] These volunteers have successfully evacuated tens of thousands of people from conflict zones,[10][11] provided essential services such as clean water and medical supplies,[12] and have kept the few operational hospitals stocked with necessary fuel and supplies.[13][14] In addition to these efforts, ERRs have maintained vital water and communication infrastructure, ensuring that communities remain connected and have access to clean water.[15][16] They also run community kitchens that feed millions of people,[17] addressing the severe food shortages caused by the conflict.[18][19] EERs has also been active in responding to sexual violence cases during the civil war.[20]
Most ERRs are not legally registered. ERRs are community funded but also receives funds from Non-governmental organization, international development agencies,[22] charities,[5] individuals,[23] and local businesses.[24] Nonetheless, in a press release in April 2024, U.S. representative for Minnesota's 5th congressional districtIlhan Omar stated that there is a "need to significantly ramp up direct funding for Emergency Response Rooms – not only providing essential services but demonstrating our commitment to supporting civilian rule in Sudan."[25]
Nevertheless, ERRs have faced significant challenges, including being targeted by both sides of the civil war,[26] including arrest and abduction,[27] rape,[28][29] and killing.[30][31] For example, three ERRs volunteers were killed in 2023 while trying to assist civilians in Al Fiteihab, Khartoum,[32] and two more were killed in Naivasha Market.[33]
ERRs is considered as an example of the decolonisation of aid.[34] The decolonisation of aid refers to efforts to transform the international aid system by addressing and dismantling the power imbalances and colonial legacies that have historically shaped it.[35]