Khartoum, Sudan – (African Boulevard News) – The United Nations high commissioner for refugees (UNHCR), Filippo Grandi, has urged the countries bordering Sudan to “keep their borders open,” especially at a time when Sudan is facing internal strife and violence.
Sudan has been engulfed in civil unrest for the past two months, with the military ousting the former leader, Omar al-Bashir, and taking control of the country. The situation has led to widespread violence, displacing thousands of people who have fled across the border to neighboring countries.
In a statement released on Sunday, Grandi said that the neighboring countries have a “critical role to play in providing safety and assistance to those fleeing violence and persecution.” He also urged the countries to “ensure access to asylum procedures and not to forcibly return refugees or asylum-seekers to danger.”
Countries like Chad, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Libya, and South Sudan share borders with Sudan and have already seen an influx of refugees fleeing the violence.
Grandi pointed out that Sudan itself has a long history of hosting refugees from neighboring countries and that “it is now time for neighboring countries to reciprocate by keeping their borders open and providing protection to those in need.”
He also called on the international community to support the countries in the region that are already hosting refugees and to provide them with the resources they need to cope with the influx.
The UNHCR estimates that over 100,000 people have been displaced within Sudan since the military took control, and thousands more have fled to neighboring countries.
“The people fleeing violence and persecution in Sudan are in dire need of protection and assistance,” said Grandi. “The neighboring countries must come together to ensure that these vulnerable people are not left to suffer alone.”
As the situation in Sudan continues to unfold, it is crucial for neighboring countries to show solidarity and support for their fellow African nation during this difficult time. With the borders open and proper resources in place, the refugees and asylum-seekers fleeing the violence will have a better chance of rebuilding their lives in safety and security.
