Filippo Grandi, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, warned that Sudanese refugees might head to Europe if sufficient humanitarian aid is not provided to the population in the war-torn country. The war in Sudan, which erupted on April 15, 2023, between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces paramilitary, has led to the destruction of the country’s infrastructure and raised warnings of famine and the displacement of millions both within and outside the country. Despite the uncertain estimates of civilian casualties, thousands have been killed, and both sides have been accused of committing war crimes.
Grandi stated that the humanitarian crisis in Sudan could push desperate Sudanese to flee beyond the neighboring countries where nearly two million people have already sought refuge. Speaking to Reuters at the UNHCR headquarters in Geneva, Grandi mentioned, “We are fully aware that this region is filled with criminals who want to exploit the misery of refugees and displaced people and help them move at a cost towards North Africa and towards Europe.” He advocated for providing more support to the displaced within Sudan or in neighboring countries because without it, they might become refugees along these routes.
The arrival of refugees and other migrants, especially those arriving in countries through illegal means, is a significant and divisive political issue in many European countries. UNHCR statistics have shown an increase in the movement of Sudanese refugees to Europe, with six thousand having reached Italy from Tunisia and Libya since the beginning of 2023. Grandi commented, “Will humanitarian aid stop everyone from moving? Of course not.”
Adding to the situation, the World Health Organization stated on Friday that the crisis in Sudan could worsen in the coming months if the fighting does not stop and humanitarian aid is not securely delivered. WHO spokesperson Christian Lindmeier remarked, “We are only seeing a tiny part of the real crisis and the situation could be much worse,” emphasizing that 15 million people need urgent health assistance and diseases such as cholera, malaria, and dengue fever are spreading. He noted that the available medical supplies in the country are about 25% of the needs, and 70 to 80% of Sudanese health facilities are non-operational due to the conflict.
