Sudan: A Million Returnees Spark Fragile Recovery Hopes

Sudan’s Returnees: Hope Amidst Devastation, a Race Against Time

Khartoum, Sudan – Amidst the devastating conflict that has gripped Sudan since April 2023, a fragile wave of returnees is signaling a glimmer of hope. Othman Belbeisi, regional Director of the international Institution of Migration (IOM), noted that those seeking to return home are “driven by hope, resilience and an enduring connection to their country.”

However, this hopeful development is juxtaposed with a harsh reality: many returnees are re-entering states and cities ravaged by over two years of intense warfare. The conflict has triggered the world’s largest displacement crisis, forcing over 12 million Sudanese from their homes. A notable portion, approximately one-third, have sought refuge in neighboring countries like Chad and South Sudan, which are themselves facing immense pressure to accommodate the influx.

Mamadou Dian Balde, the regional coordinator for the UN’s refugee agency, UNHCR, highlighted the precarious nature of this situation, stating, “Not only do [the returnees] mark a hopeful but fragile shift, they also indicate already stretched host countries under increasing strain.”

The International Organization of Migration (IOM) stresses that for these returns to align with international law, they must be voluntary and dignified. A substantial number of the 1.3 million Sudanese returnees are heading towards khartoum, Al jazirah, and Sennar states, regions where the conflict’s impact remains acutely felt.In the capital,Khartoum,the scene is one of widespread destruction. Many buildings, including the UNHCR office, lie in ruins, and critical public infrastructure such as roads and power plants has been severely compromised or obliterated.

“Without urgent action, people will be coming back to cities that are in ruins. We are in a race against time to clear the rubble and provide water, power and healthcare,” warned Abdallah Al Dardair, Director for the Arab states for the UN Development Programme (UNDP). Compounding the challenge, khartoum is already accommodating a large number of internally displaced persons and individuals who had previously sought asylum in Sudan before the outbreak of hostilities.

Beyond the infrastructure collapse, returnees face significant dangers from unexploded ordnance, and also high rates of gender-based and sexual violence against women and girls. In response, safe spaces have been established in Khartoum and Al Jazirah states to address the urgent psychosocial and protection needs of these vulnerable populations.

Returnees: Catalysts for Recovery

Mr. Belbeisi emphasized that these returnees should not be viewed as mere survivors but as vital contributors to Sudan’s eventual recovery. “Those heading home are not passive survivors, they are vital to Sudan’s recovery. Yes, the humanitarian situation is dire, but with the right support, returnees can revive local economies, restore community life, and foster hope where it’s needed most,” he asserted.

Though, the broader humanitarian efforts in and around Sudan are critically underfunded. With only 23% of the estimated $4.2 billion required for the upcoming year secured, life-saving services risk significant scaling back.

“More than evidence of people’s desire to return to their homeland,these returns are a desperate call for an end to the war so that people can come back and rebuild their lives,” concluded Mr. Balde. The return of Sudanese citizens signifies a profound longing for peace and the chance to rebuild their lives amidst the ruins.

What specific protection concerns do returning women and children face in Sudan?

The Scale of Return: A Humanitarian Challenge

Recent months have witnessed a significant, yet complex, demographic shift in Sudan. Over one million Sudanese citizens, displaced by years of conflict and instability – including the ongoing civil war – have returned to their home regions. This influx, while representing a crucial step towards rebuilding communities, presents immense humanitarian and logistical challenges. The majority of these returnees are heading back to areas previously impacted by intense fighting, particularly in Darfur, Khartoum, and Kordofan. Understanding the drivers of this return migration, and the conditions awaiting them, is vital.

Key Drivers of Return: Primarily,a perceived decrease in immediate danger in some regions,coupled with the desperate need to rebuild lives and livelihoods. The hope of re-establishing agricultural practices before the next planting season is also a major factor.

Returnee Demographics: The returning population is diverse, encompassing internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees from neighboring countries. A significant proportion are women and children, making them particularly vulnerable.

Population Figures (2024): Sudan’s population currently stands at approximately 50 million [25], a figure dramatically altered by displacement and return patterns.

Immediate Needs and Humanitarian Response

the sheer number of returnees is straining already limited resources. The most pressing needs include:

1. Shelter: many returnees are finding their homes destroyed or uninhabitable. Emergency shelter provision is critical.
2. Food Security: Widespread food insecurity is a major concern. Disrupted agricultural cycles and limited access to markets exacerbate the problem. the world Food Program (WFP) and other organizations are working to provide food assistance, but funding gaps remain substantial.
3. Healthcare: Access to healthcare is severely limited, particularly in conflict-affected areas. Returnees are often in urgent need of medical attention due to injuries, malnutrition, and disease outbreaks.
4. Water and Sanitation: Clean water and adequate sanitation facilities are essential to prevent the spread of disease.
5. Protection Concerns: Returnees, especially women and children, face heightened risks of violence, exploitation, and abuse.

The Impact on Infrastructure and Services

the return of a million people is placing an enormous burden on Sudan’s already fragile infrastructure.

Overwhelmed Infrastructure: Schools, hospitals, and water systems are struggling to cope with the increased demand.

Land Disputes: Competition for land and resources is escalating, potentially fueling further conflict. This is particularly acute in agricultural regions.

Strain on Local Economies: The influx of returnees is putting pressure on local markets and employment opportunities.

Challenges to Reconstruction: Rebuilding damaged infrastructure and restoring essential services requires significant investment and coordination.

Regional Variations in the return Process

The experience of returnees varies significantly depending on their region of origin and destination.

Darfur: Returns to Darfur are particularly challenging due to ongoing security concerns and the legacy of past conflicts. Many returnees are hesitant to return to their villages without adequate security guarantees.

Khartoum: While some returnees are venturing back to Khartoum, the capital remains unstable, and access to basic services is limited.

Kordofan: Returns to South Kordofan and West Kordofan are elaborate by the presence of armed groups and ongoing clashes.

Eastern Sudan: Eastern Sudan has seen a relatively smoother return process,but still faces challenges related to providing adequate support to returnees.

The Role of International Aid and NGOs

International aid organizations and NGOs are playing a crucial role in supporting the return process.

Key organizations: The UNHCR, WFP, UNICEF, and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) are among the leading organizations providing assistance.

Funding Shortfalls: Despite the scale of the crisis, funding for humanitarian assistance in Sudan remains critically low. Increased international support is urgently needed.

Coordination Challenges: Effective coordination between aid organizations, the Sudanese government, and local communities is essential to ensure that assistance reaches those who need it most.

Long-Term Development: Sustainable recovery requires a shift from emergency assistance to long-term development programs that address the root causes of conflict and vulnerability.

Benefits of Return Migration (Potential)

Despite the challenges, the return of Sudanese citizens also presents potential benefits:

Rebuilding Communities: Returnees can contribute to the rebuilding of their communities and the restoration of social cohesion.

economic Revitalization: The return of skilled workers and entrepreneurs can definitely help to revitalize local economies.

Agricultural Recovery: Returnees can play a vital role in restoring agricultural production and improving food security.

Strengthening Social Fabric: The return of displaced populations can help to strengthen the social fabric of Sudanese society.

Practical Tips for Returnees (Data from UNHCR)

The UNHCR provides guidance for Sudanese citizens returning home:

Pre-Departure Information: Gather information about the conditions in your area of origin before you return.

Registration: Register with local authorities and humanitarian organizations upon your return.

Access to Assistance: Seek assistance