Since the outbreak of war in Sudan in April 2023, Libya has seen the arrival of over 210,000 Sudanese refugees, according to reports. The number of Sudanese registered with the UNHCR at its registration center in Tripoli has surged to over 57,000 individuals.
In the city of Al-Kufra, authorities have issued 125,020 health certificates this year, reflecting the influx of approximately 173,000 Sudanese refugees entering Libya through Al-Kufra alone. The city witnesses an average of 400 to 500 new arrivals daily, according to the UNHCR.
However, the UNHCR notes that accurately tracking the number of Sudanese refugees remains challenging due to irregular entry patterns, inconsistent data provided by authorities, and the vast, remote border areas between Libya and Sudan. Additionally, many refugees continue their journey toward cities along Libya’s Mediterranean coastline.
The ongoing crisis underscores the urgent need for enhanced humanitarian efforts to support refugees and manage the complex migration dynamics in Libya.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions.
The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition.
Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges.
