Sudanese asylum seekers in Lebanon are caught in a complex crisis exacerbated by conflicts in both Sudan and Lebanon.
The UNHCR's limited response to evacuation requests highlights gaps in international refugee protection frameworks.
The Sudanese Cultural Club serves as a vital support system for displaced families, reflecting the community's resilience amid adversity.
If the situation in Lebanon continues to deteriorate, more Sudanese asylum seekers may attempt dangerous smuggling routes to Europe.
Increased international pressure may lead to a reassessment of the UNHCR's policies regarding refugee evacuations.
The ongoing conflicts may result in a larger influx of Sudanese refugees seeking asylum in neighboring countries.
Sudanese Asylum Seekers in Lebanon Seek Urgent Evacuation
Sudanese asylum seekers in Lebanon are facing a dire situation as they navigate crises both in their home country and in their host nation. On November 10, a gathering led by activist Abdel Baqi Osman highlighted their urgent plea for evacuation to safer countries such as Italy, Turkey, or Cyprus. Yahya Othman, a participant, expressed frustration with the UNHCR's inaction, stating, “We want to go to a place where people are not at war.”
The Impact of Conflict on Sudanese Refugees
Since the outbreak of war in Sudan, approximately 400 Sudanese have sought asylum in Lebanon. Many, like Yahya, who hails from a non-Arab tribe in Darfur, fear persecution from both the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the military. The situation worsened for these refugees when Israel intensified its military actions in Lebanon, leading to increased fears and displacement. Yahya and his wife, who initially felt safe in Lebanon, were forced to flee their farm in Nabatieh due to heavy bombardment. They eventually found refuge at the Sudanese Cultural Club in Beirut, which has become a temporary shelter for many displaced Sudanese families.
UNHCR's Role and Challenges in Refugee Evacuations
The UNHCR reports that about 11,500 Sudanese nationals are currently in Lebanon, with only 2,727 registered as refugees. Despite the urgent calls for evacuation, the UNHCR has stated that it does not conduct evacuations, a claim that activists like Osman contest. They argue that the agency has the capability to facilitate such actions, as evidenced by previous evacuations from Libya. Experts suggest that the reluctance to initiate more evacuations stems from concerns about setting a precedent for refugees globally. As conditions in Lebanon deteriorate, many Sudanese asylum seekers may resort to dangerous smuggling routes to escape, although financial constraints limit their options. Yahya emphasizes the community's reliance on the UNHCR for assistance, praying for a resolution to their plight.