Increasing Numbers of Refugees in Morocco

As of June 30, 2026, Morocco has recorded a total of 23,615 refugees and asylum seekers registered with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). Among these, Sudanese nationals represent the largest group of new registrations. This surge is particularly significant among unaccompanied minors, which is placing increasing pressure on the country's protective services. The latest figures reveal that Morocco is transforming from a transit country for migrants heading to Europe into a key asylum destination, offering protection and inclusion amidst the ongoing regional instability caused by the conflict in Sudan and forced displacements across the Sahel.

Sudanese Refugee Crisis and Its Impact

The data, released in the UNHCR's fact sheet for Morocco in the second quarter of 2026, illustrates the evolving migration dynamics within the country. The report indicates that Morocco is affirming its role as a crucial asylum country at the crossroads of Mediterranean and Atlantic migration routes. The influx of Sudanese migrants has been particularly pronounced, with the UNHCR noting that these individuals began arriving in significant numbers in 2024, following the escalation of conflict in Sudan. In fact, Sudanese nationals accounted for 68% of all new registrations in 2026, averaging about 233 new entries per month during this timeframe. This trend underscores the geographical expansion of the crisis stemming from the war in Sudan, which has forced individuals to seek refuge far beyond their immediate neighboring countries.

Among the total registered population, 10,538 individuals have been recognized as refugees, while 13,077 remain as asylum seekers awaiting decisions. This demographic includes individuals from over 60 different countries, with the Sudanese, Syrians, Guineans, Ivorians, and Central Africans forming the largest groups. The rising number of arrivals raises new protection needs, particularly as a significant portion consists of unaccompanied minors, who represented one in nine new registrations. The UNHCR has pointed out that this situation significantly increases the risk of protection challenges. The ongoing influx is straining Morocco's existing protection systems, necessitating a progressive strengthening of national asylum and protection frameworks in collaboration with the Moroccan government.

As reported by yabiladi.com.