The war in Sudan has displaced nearly one million people to Chad, including over 720,000 refugees. The crisis largely affects women and children, many of whom have suffered violence. Humanitarian organizations report critical shortfalls in funding and resources for protection, education, and mental health support. Education is vital for trauma recovery and the hope of displaced children, who are currently facing a severe educational crisis in Chad.
As a result of the ongoing conflict in Sudan, nearly one million individuals have sought refuge in Chad over the past two years. This total includes over 720,000 Sudanese refugees and approximately 220,000 Chadians who returned due to the violence. The majority of those displaced are women and children, who have faced significant violence, such as torture and sexual assault. Humanitarian organizations in eastern Chad highlight the lack of essential protection and educational resources for refugees and returnees alike.
Nima, a refugee who walked for five days to reach Chad with her family, expressed relief upon crossing the border, though fear soon returned. She shared the trauma experienced by her children, citing nightly nightmares and a pervasive sense of insecurity. The psychological impact of displacement is profound; two-thirds of those arriving in Chad report experiencing violence, with one-third having been physically assaulted.
Alix Camus, President of the INGO Forum, remarked on the plight of the refugees, stating that many arrive with nothing but traumatic stories. There is an urgent need for mental health support, child protection, and education services, which are currently lacking due to inadequate funding amidst the crisis. Despite the extreme challenges faced by Chad, it continues to provide asylum for refugees.
Chad is home to a significant number of newly displaced Sudanese refugees in what has become one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises. A mere 30 percent of the Refugee Response Plan in Chad received funding in 2024, leaving critical gaps in food assistance and protection services. Alarmingly, over 80 percent of children in some provinces did not attend school, highlighting a dire educational crisis.
Mastam Degolmal, Education Coordinator for the Norwegian Refugee Council, emphasized the importance of education for refugee children, stating it is crucial for rebuilding their sense of normalcy and hope. Parents and children both express eagerness to attend temporary schools set up in displacement camps, underscoring the critical role of education in healing from trauma.
Signatories of a joint statement urged for regional funding mechanisms to support Chad in its humanitarian response. Amadou Bocoum, Country Director of CARE in Chad, called for more international assistance, noting that the crisis extends beyond Sudan’s borders. He praised Chad for its compassionate response while stressing the necessity for global support in aiding survivors of the conflict.
The war in Sudan, which began in April 2023, has led to the mass displacement of populations primarily affecting women and children. As humanitarian organizations mobilize responses in Chad, they highlight the pressing needs for protection, education, and mental health services. Despite the challenges within Chad as a host country, it has demonstrated remarkable resilience and willingness to provide refuge to those affected by the conflict. Major gaps in funding and resources hinder effective emergency responses, further aggravating the plight of refugees and returnees.
In summary, the conflict in Sudan has resulted in a significant humanitarian crisis that has forcibly displaced nearly one million individuals to Chad. With urgent needs for education, protection, and mental health services, international support is critical to providing adequate assistance and resources to help those affected rebuild their lives. The ongoing efforts of humanitarian organizations must be bolstered by increased funding and cooperation from the global community to effectively address the complex challenges faced by refugees and Chadian returnees.
Original Source: www.care.org
