More than four million people have now escaped the civil war in Sudan, according to the United Nations. Since the conflict began in April 2023, families have been forced to leave everything behind in search of safety. The war, now in its third year, has become one of the world’s biggest displacement crises.
Speaking at a press briefing in Geneva, U.N. refugee agency spokesperson Eujin Byun described the situation as heartbreaking. She warned that if the fighting continues, even more people will be forced to flee, which could put both regional and international stability at risk.
Sudan borders seven countries: Chad, South Sudan, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, the Central African Republic, and Libya. Most of the refugees have escaped into Chad, where conditions are extremely poor. Over 800,000 people have arrived there, but only 14% of the funds needed to support them have been raised.
Dossou Patrice Ahouansou from the UNHCR called it an “unprecedented crisis.” He stressed that this is not just a refugee issue, but a humanitarian disaster. Many people arriving at the borders have shared painful stories of violence and fear.
One of the most moving stories shared at the briefing was about a seven-year-old girl from Sudan’s Zamzam displacement camp. During a brutal attack that killed her father and two brothers, she was seriously injured and lost her leg while trying to escape. Her mother had died in an earlier attack.
Other refugees shared how armed groups stole their animals and forced them to carry their family members in carts.
With limited support and rising needs, the U.N. is urging the international community to act quickly. If you’re wondering how you can help, donating to verified humanitarian organizations or raising awareness online can make a real difference.
By Yockshard Enyendi
