Sudanese in Egypt: The realities of their continued presence and the challenges of migration
Despite reports indicating a recent exodus of Sudanese nationals from Egypt, the overall scene on Egyptian streets still reflects a significant and substantial presence of our Sudanese brothers and sisters. This noticeable presence, clearly visible in the neighborhoods of Cairo, Giza, and other governorates, transcends mere temporary refuge; it expresses the deep historical and social ties that bind the people of the Nile Valley amidst the complex geopolitical and economic transformations sweeping the region.
General context and historical background of the crisis
The Sudanese presence in Egypt cannot be understood in isolation from the bloody events that have unfolded in Sudan since mid-April 2023. The armed conflict between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces led to one of the largest waves of displacement in modern African history. Egypt, by virtue of geographical proximity and long-standing historical ties, became the first and safest destination for hundreds of thousands of Sudanese families fleeing the ravages of war. This movement is rooted in a long legacy of the “Four Freedoms” agreements, which regulated movement, residence, work, and property ownership between the two countries, making Egypt a natural extension and safe haven for Sudanese.
Stay and leave dynamics
While some data indicates that hundreds of thousands have left, either voluntarily returning to relatively safe areas in Sudan or migrating to third countries (Europe or the Gulf states), the largest group remains in Egypt. This is due to several factors, most notably the ongoing security situation in Khartoum and Darfur, and the destruction of infrastructure there, which makes the option of returning too risky for many. Conversely, some face economic challenges within Egypt due to high inflation rates and rising living costs and rents, which may explain the partial exodus, but it does not negate the fact that their numbers remain high and influential on the current Egyptian social fabric.
Regional and international importance and influence
This issue has dimensions that extend beyond local borders. Egypt bears a significant economic burden in hosting these massive numbers, sharing resources and public services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure with them, at a time when the global economy is suffering from successive crises. Internationally, this situation places the international community and UN organizations before their responsibilities to provide the necessary support to countries hosting refugees. The Sudanese presence in Egypt is not merely a statistic in migration records; it is a vital indicator of regional stability, as Cairo plays a crucial role in preventing the humanitarian crisis from worsening. This underscores the pivotal role of Egypt in maintaining regional security and peace in the Horn of Africa and North Africa.
