Surge of Sudanese refugees in Libya raises concerns of sea migration
February 18, 2024: (TRIPOLI, Libya) – Hundreds of thousands of Sudanese refugees have fled the war in their country and crossed into Libya, raising concerns about a potential increase in migrants attempting to reach Europe by sea.
Malik Al-Digawi, head of the program to reduce illegal immigration and aid returning Sudanese communities in Libya, estimates that over 400,000 refugees are now in Kufra, near the Libyan-Chad border. The Organization to combat illegal immigration (OCII) believes the actual number could be double that.
Many refugees are concentrated in Kufra and the capital, Tripoli, where some sleep outside the UNHCR headquarters seeking registration. They enter Libya through Egypt and Chad, often driven by despair over long waiting times and a lack of aid.
“We fear refugees will attempt dangerous sea crossings to Europe if they lose hope of official registration,” Al-Digawi said, highlighting the tragic deaths of 40 Sudanese migrants last week.
Local communities in Kufra have generously opened their homes and farms to refugees, and organizations are providing food and blankets. However, the influx has strained resources and sparked concerns about potential exploitation by smugglers.
Sudan Tribune spoke to refugees in Kufra and Tripoli, as well as activists assisting them, highlighting the dire situation.
The 10-month conflict has forced thousands to seek refuge in Egypt and Chad, and subsequently Libya.
The Sudanese ambassador in Tripoli has secured exemptions for Sudanese students, including waiving university fees and facilitating school enrollment. Meanwhile, humanitarian aid promised by Al-Digawi’s program remains stuck due to bureaucratic hurdles.
“We have five field hospitals ready to deploy,” he said, “but require official approval to operate in Libya. We urge the authorities to expedite this process to help these vulnerable people.”
(ST)