Sudanese Refugees in Cairo Face Legal, Social Challenges Amid Rising Tensions
In Cairo, Sudanese refugees face significant challenges after fleeing their war-torn homeland, with many waiting for asylum identification cards from the UN refugee agency, Arab News revealed in an article yesterday.
These cards, intended to provide legal protection and access to services, have not alleviated fears of rising xenophobia and police scrutiny. A new Egyptian law requires undocumented migrants to regularize their status by the end of September, creating a legal limbo for many refugees, as administrative fees can exceed $1,000.
Since the onset of conflict in Sudan, over 500,000 Sudanese have fled to Egypt, yet many face difficulties obtaining residency due to lengthy appointment wait times. The Egyptian government has intensified security operations, leading to mass arrests and deportations of Sudanese nationals without proper asylum procedures. Social tensions have escalated, with some Egyptians blaming refugees for rising living costs amid economic strain.
Many Sudanese families struggle to secure basic needs, including education for their children, as schools refuse enrollment. The influx of refugees has strained local resources, prompting calls for better management of the situation. The UNHCR reports a dramatic increase in asylum seekers, with Sudanese individuals now comprising over 60% of those registered in Egypt, highlighting the urgent need for support and integration amidst ongoing humanitarian challenges.
