Over one million individuals have fled to South Sudan due to the ongoing crisis in Sudan, as reported on January 21, 2024. The influx largely comprises South Sudanese previously living in Sudan, along with other displaced nationals. IOM and UNHCR have raised alarms regarding the need for increased humanitarian support and sustainable resources to address the growing challenges in the region.
On January 21, 2024, it was reported that over one million individuals have sought refuge in South Sudan due to the ongoing conflict in Sudan. This unprecedented influx marks a significant rise in the humanitarian crisis stemming from nearly two years of warfare. Data from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) highlights that since April 2023, more than 770,200 people have entered through various border crossings, emphasizing the escalating displacement situation.
Most of the new arrivals consist of South Sudanese nationals previously residing in Sudan, who had initially fled South Sudan’s civil war. Additionally, numerous Sudanese nationals, as well as individuals from other nations, have also sought safety within South Sudan as the violence continues. IOM and UNHCR are closely monitoring and assisting with this surge in displacement through detailed tracking and registration processes.
IOM and UNHCR have raised concerns regarding the alarming rate of this new wave of displacement. Their collaborative efforts include providing transport, multi-purpose cash assistance, essential supplies, protection services, and healthcare support. Sanaa Abdalla Omer, Deputy Representative of UNHCR in South Sudan, emphasized the need for greater international support to aid both displaced families and the communities accommodating them.
As the crisis persists, the IOM is dedicated to addressing immediate needs of the refugees and is prepared to enhance its support initiatives. Vijaya Souri, the Chief of Mission for IOM South Sudan, highlighted the necessity for sustainable aid as local resources become increasingly strained. Access to clean water, sanitation, and healthcare remains critically limited, further exacerbated by ongoing health crises such as cholera outbreaks.
The escalating situation necessitates increased humanitarian funding and support, with UNHCR and IOM continuing to provide essential assistance at border entries and transit centers. With current facilities overstretched, urgent action is required to accommodate an influx of displaced persons, as current shelter facilities in Renk are overwhelmed, housing four times the intended capacity.
The Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan for 2025 acknowledges the intensifying demands faced by humanitarian organizations, forecasting 337,000 new arrivals in the coming year. While appreciation is expressed for donor support thus far, both IOM and UNHCR underline that substantial resources are essential to alleviate the deepening humanitarian crisis in the region.
The conflict in Sudan, which has spanned nearly two years, has led to a significant humanitarian crisis, forcing over one million individuals to seek refuge in neighboring South Sudan. The United Nations agencies are actively monitoring and assisting the displaced persons through various programs aimed at providing essential services and support. This ongoing situation urgently demands both immediate and sustainable humanitarian aid as local communities struggle to meet the needs of the new arrivals.
In summary, the humanitarian crisis in South Sudan continues to escalate, driven by the violent conflict in Sudan. With over one million displaced individuals seeking refuge, urgent support and resources are necessary to address their needs effectively. Both IOM and UNHCR remain committed to delivering crucial assistance, highlighting the importance of international partnership to alleviate this pressing crisis.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
