Sudanese Refugees Find New Home in Morocco Amidst Ongoing Conflict
A recent report by the Mixed Migration Center has revealed significant changes in the migration patterns of individuals fleeing the ongoing war in Sudan. It highlights that Morocco is no longer merely a transit point for those seeking to reach Europe; instead, it has emerged as a preferred destination for many refugees seeking stability, despite the difficult living conditions they face.
The report, which surveyed 108 Sudanese refugees and asylum seekers in key Moroccan cities—Rabat, Tangier, Oujda, and Agadir—between March and July 2026, sheds light on the arduous journeys these individuals undertook to reach Morocco. The primary reason for the majority of Sudanese respondents (93%) leaving their home country was the outbreak of armed conflict in April 2023. Notably, 31% of those surveyed were internally displaced before opting to migrate outside national borders.
The ground routes taken by these refugees were characterized by extreme dangers and lengthy durations, averaging about 16 months from Sudan to Morocco. Many traversed through perilous transit countries, with 96% passing through Algeria, 78% through Libya, and 31% through Chad. The report details a range of severe risks encountered during their travels, including theft (68%), physical violence (66%), arbitrary detention (50%), along with issues such as bribery, health risks, and sexual violence.
Among the most striking findings was Morocco’s emergence as the top destination for those surveyed, with 19% expressing a preference to settle there permanently, surpassing traditional European destinations such as Spain (18%), the United Kingdom (18%), Canada (8%), and France (5%). The data indicates that while 66% of respondents initially showed a desire to continue their journey in the future, most are likely to settle in Morocco for extended periods. On average, Sudanese refugees have been in Morocco for about nine months.
The legal and human rights landscape for these refugees in Morocco is also evolving. The report indicates a significant uptake of the national protection system, with 79% of respondents currently benefiting from international protection status in Morocco—41% as asylum seekers and 38% as recognized refugees. Additionally, 13% expressed intentions to apply for asylum through the appropriate channels.
However, the report, published in October, also highlights considerable stress and living challenges faced by these refugees. A staggering 79% reported being unable to meet their basic daily needs, while 96% indicated a need for humanitarian interventions, including shelter, economic opportunities, and healthcare services.
Recent data from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in Morocco reveals that Sudanese individuals constitute the largest group of refugees in the country, numbering 6,816 and accounting for 68% of new registrations in 2026, with a monthly influx of approximately 233 individuals. In response to the ongoing crisis, the Sudanese Embassy in Rabat initiated a voluntary repatriation program in September for hundreds of Sudanese migrants in irregular situations, coordinating efforts with Moroccan authorities.
As reported by hespress.com.
