The ongoing war in Sudan has resulted in nearly one million displaced individuals in Chad, primarily women and children who have faced severe violence. Humanitarian organizations warn of inadequate support and funding, with education and protection services critically lacking. Many refugees report trauma and ongoing fear, emphasizing the need for increased international assistance. Education is highlighted as a vital resource for rebuilding lives amidst the crisis.
Since the outbreak of conflict in Sudan nearly two years ago, nearly one million individuals have sought refuge in Chad, comprising over 720,000 Sudanese refugees and approximately 220,000 Chadian returnees. A significant majority—90 percent—of those displaced are women and children, many of whom have suffered extreme violence, including torture and sexual assault. Humanitarian agencies warn that these individuals lack essential protection and educational services.
“After arriving in Chad, I felt briefly safe, until the fear returned,” recalls Nima, a refugee from Darfur, who journeyed five days to escape violence. She describes the trauma faced by her young daughters, who continue to experience nightmares and fear of further attacks. “I need peace; I do not feel at home here while living in fear,” she states, highlighting the psychological toll on her family.
Protection monitoring data indicates that over two-thirds of new arrivals in Chad have faced violence, with a serious incidence of sexual violence reported in Sudan. Alix Camus, the President of the INGO Forum, notes that these refugees arrive with little more than their clothes and traumatic stories. “The trauma they bear must be addressed through better support for child protection, education, and mental health services,” he insists.
Chad, one of the world’s poorest nations, is currently hosting a significant portion of the newly displaced Sudanese refugees, constituting the largest displacement crisis globally. Humanitarian organizations have been mobilizing resources to provide urgent assistance, yet only 30 percent of the Refugee Response Plan received funding in 2024, which hindered efforts to adequately meet basic needs including food and education.
Significant gaps exist in educational access, with over 80 percent of children missing school in eastern Chad. Mastam Degolmal, NRC’s Education Coordinator, emphasizes the importance of education in helping children rebuild their lives: “Despite the trauma, education can reintroduce stability and hope for these vulnerable children.”
Organizations involved urge the establishment of robust funding mechanisms to address the humanitarian needs in Sudan’s neighboring countries. Amadou Bocoum, Country Director of CARE in Chad, states, “Chad’s effective response amidst its own challenges underscores the need for the international community to provide adequate support for those who have suffered from this crisis.”
The humanitarian crisis resulting from the ongoing conflict in Sudan has displaced nearly one million people into Chad over two years. This situation involves a high number of women and children, who are particularly vulnerable to violence and lack critical support services. The international humanitarian response has been inadequately funded, limiting the assistance available to those affected. Education, protection, and mental health resources are dwindling, exacerbating the trauma faced by the displaced population.
The conflict in Sudan has led to significant humanitarian challenges, particularly for families fleeing to Chad. Despite the resources and efforts of humanitarian organizations, there is an urgent need for increased funding and educational support for the many displaced individuals. Ensuring proper protection and mental health care remains critical as these communities seek stability and hope in the aftermath of violence.
Original Source: www.care.org
