Sudanese Refugees Embrace Morocco as a Safe Haven
A recent report by the Mixed Migration Centre has unveiled significant changes in the migration and asylum patterns of individuals fleeing the ongoing conflict in Sudan. Contrary to its previous role as merely a transit point towards Europe, Morocco has now emerged as a preferred destination for many Sudanese refugees, offering a semblance of stability and safety, despite the various socio-economic challenges they face.
The study, conducted between March and July 2026, surveyed 108 Sudanese refugees and asylum seekers across four key Moroccan cities: Rabat, Tangier, Oujda, and Agadir. The findings reveal that a staggering 93% of respondents fled due to the outbreak of armed conflict in Sudan, which began in April 2023. Notably, 31% of those surveyed initially experienced internal displacement before deciding to emigrate.
The journey from Sudan to Morocco proved perilous and lengthy, averaging approximately 16 months. This arduous trek involved navigating through multiple transit countries, with 96% of participants passing through Algeria, 78% through Libya, and 31% through Chad. The report highlights that these migrations were fraught with danger, as migrants faced numerous violations, including theft (68%), physical violence (66%), arbitrary detention (50%), as well as bribery, extortion, health risks, and sexual violence.
Morocco: A Preferred Destination
Among the notable insights from the report is the emergence of Morocco as the top choice for permanent settlement among Sudanese respondents, with 19% expressing a desire to remain there, surpassing traditional European destinations such as Spain (18%), the United Kingdom (18%), Canada (8%), and France (5%). On average, Sudanese refugees have been residing in Morocco for about nine months. While 66% initially expressed intentions to continue their travels in the future, the data suggests that a significant majority are likely to remain in Morocco for extended periods.
Legally and ethically, the report indicates a growing interest among refugees in accessing national systems and international protection in Morocco, with 79% currently benefiting from protected status (41% as asylum seekers and 38% as recognized refugees). Furthermore, 13% of other respondents indicated their intention to submit asylum applications to the relevant authorities.
Despite these advancements, the report, published in October, also reflects on the substantial challenges faced by refugees. A concerning 79% reported struggling to meet their daily essential needs, while 96% expressed the need for humanitarian interventions, including shelter, economic opportunities, and healthcare.
Recent data from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Morocco highlights that Sudanese individuals constitute the largest group of refugees in the country, totaling 6,816 people, representing 68% of new registrations for 2026, with a monthly influx averaging around 233 individuals.
In response to the ongoing situation, the Sudanese Embassy in Rabat has initiated a voluntary repatriation program for hundreds of Sudanese migrants in irregular situations, coordinating efforts with Moroccan authorities since September.
As reported by hespress.com.
