Over 550,000 Sudanese Refugees Flee to Libya Since Conflict Began, UN Says

Tripoli, April 20, 2026 - More than 550,000 Sudanese refugees are estimated to have entered Libya since the outbreak of conflict in Sudan in April 2023, according to the United Nations refugee agency (UNHCR).

The agency reports that approximately 559,920 Sudanese nationals have crossed into Libya. Of these, 74,934 were registered after the start of the war, bringing the total number of Sudanese registered at the UNHCR centre in Tripoli to 91,494.

UNHCR said tightened border surveillance by Libyan authorities has pushed many refugees to take longer and more dangerous routes, with daily arrivals via Chad now averaging around 70 people.

The agency also noted that accurately tracking arrivals remains difficult due to irregular migration patterns and Libya’s vast, porous borders with Sudan, Chad, and Egypt. Many refugees reportedly move quickly toward coastal cities after crossing the border.

Displaced Sudanese are facing significant challenges in accessing healthcare services, with many unable to obtain medical treatment due to lack of documentation and the high cost of care, often charged at foreigner rates.

The report further warned of worsening humanitarian conditions, including widespread psychological distress linked to instability and the constant threat of homelessness. It also highlighted ongoing maritime search-and-rescue operations, with 18 incidents recorded in March alone-10 in eastern Libya and 8 in the west.

Security operations in eastern Libya have intensified, increasing the risk of arbitrary detention and forced returns to Sudan. The UNHCR cautioned that women, children, and persons with disabilities are particularly vulnerable to exploitation, abuse, and gender-based violence.