The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has raised concerns over the rapid influx of Sudanese refugees into Chad. According to data released on September 25, 2026, over 55,000 individuals have crossed the border since the start of the year, despite insufficient humanitarian resources. This surge in refugee arrivals has put a strain on the region, with over 400 people traversing the main crossing points daily.
The acceleration of Sudanese displacement into Chad is attributed to the deteriorating security situation in various Sudanese regions. Clashes, airstrikes, and drone attacks in Darfur, Kordofan, and Blue Nile State have forced more families to seek refuge abroad. Additionally, climate-related challenges, including drought, have exacerbated living conditions for the affected populations. As a result, nearly one million Sudanese refugees have found shelter in Chad since the conflict began in April 2023.
The UNHCR has highlighted the pressing issue of underfunding for humanitarian efforts. Only 18% of the $1.6 billion required for the Regional Refugee Response Plan has been mobilized to date. This funding shortfall hampers the relocation of new arrivals, with over 190,000 refugees still living in precarious conditions near the border due to inadequate resources for relocation to better-equipped reception sites.
The crisis in Sudan has led to approximately 11.3 million internal and external displacements, underscoring the exceptional scale of the humanitarian crisis. The UNHCR's data indicates a significant increase in refugee arrivals, with an average of over 400 individuals crossing the border daily in the past week, representing nearly twenty times the daily average recorded in recent months.
The majority of refugees have entered Chad through the Adré and Tiné crossing points. Efforts to address the humanitarian needs of these refugees are underway, but the UNHCR's ability to respond effectively is hindered by the funding shortage. As a result, many refugees continue to face dire living conditions, emphasizing the need for increased support and resources.
Chad has emerged as one of the primary host countries for populations fleeing the conflict in Sudan. The country's infrastructure and resources are being stretched to accommodate the large influx of refugees, further complicating the humanitarian response. The situation demands sustained international attention and support to mitigate the crisis.
The UNHCR continues to monitor the situation closely, advocating for increased funding and support to address the growing humanitarian needs. The organization's efforts focus on providing critical assistance, including relocation to safer areas, to refugees fleeing the conflict in Sudan.
Key points
- Over 55,000 Sudanese refugees have crossed into Chad since January 2026.
- The UNHCR has raised concerns over underfunding, with only 18% of the required $1.6 billion mobilized.
- The conflict in Sudan has resulted in approximately 11.3 million internal and external displacements.
