Sudanese Refugees Seek Stability in Morocco Amid Ongoing Conflict
A recent report from the Mixed Migration Centre highlights a significant transformation in the migration and asylum patterns of individuals fleeing the war in Sudan. Notably, Morocco has evolved from merely being a transit point towards Europe to becoming a preferred destination for many Sudanese seeking stability. Despite facing considerable living challenges, this North African nation is increasingly viewed as a safe haven.
The report gathered insights from 108 Sudanese refugees and asylum seekers across four key Moroccan cities—Rabat, Tangier, Oujda, and Agadir—between March and July 2026. It reveals that an overwhelming 93% of respondents left Sudan due to the outbreak of armed conflict in April 2023. Furthermore, 31% of those surveyed initially experienced internal displacement before opting for migration beyond Sudan’s borders.
The arduous journey to Morocco, characterized by significant danger and prolonged travel times, averaged around 16 months. Many of the participants traversed perilous routes through Algeria (96% of respondents), Libya (78%), and Chad (31%). Unfortunately, these journeys were fraught with risks, with many migrants reporting experiences of theft (68%), physical violence (66%), and arbitrary detention (50%). Other dangers included extortion, health risks, and instances of sexual violence.
Interestingly, Morocco emerged as the leading choice for settlement among those surveyed, with 19% indicating it as their preferred final destination, outpacing traditional European countries such as Spain (18%), the United Kingdom (18%), Canada (8%), and France (5%). The average length of stay for Sudanese migrants in Morocco since their arrival has been noted at about nine months. While 66% expressed an initial desire to continue their journey in the future, the reality suggests that a significant number are likely to settle in Morocco for extended periods.
The report also detailed that only 6% of respondents had made tangible plans to continue their travels, while 83% either planned to remain in their current locations within Morocco or were uncertain about their next steps in the upcoming three months. Legally and in terms of rights, there has been an increased willingness among migrants to engage with Morocco’s national protection framework; data shows that 79% of respondents are currently benefiting from international protection in Morocco, with 41% as asylum seekers and 38% as recognized refugees. Additionally, 13% of respondents expressed intentions to apply for asylum through the appropriate channels.
Despite these advancements, the report published in October highlighted significant living challenges, with 79% of respondents unable to meet their daily basic needs. A staggering 96% reported a need for humanitarian interventions, including shelter, economic opportunities, and healthcare. Recent data from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) indicates that Sudanese nationals continue to top the list of refugees in Morocco, with 6,816 individuals registered, accounting for 68% of new registrations in 2026 and averaging a monthly influx of around 233 individuals.
In response to the ongoing situation, the Sudanese Embassy in Rabat has initiated a voluntary return process for hundreds of Sudanese migrants in irregular situations, facilitated through Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca and coordinated with Moroccan authorities.
As reported by hespress.com.
