Poverty, racism and forced disappearances: why Sudanese war refugees are leaving Egypt for Europe
In Cairo’s Faisal district, those who fled conflict at home say they face violence and uncertainty, making a voyage across the Mediterranean their only hope
TL;DR
- Approximately 1.3 million Sudanese refugees are in Cairo, having fled the civil war in Sudan.
- Refugees report facing racism, arbitrary arrests, and human rights violations in Egypt.
- There has been a surge in deportations of Sudanese nationals since late 2025, reportedly without risk assessments.
- Lack of legal status makes refugees vulnerable to detention and exploitation, with difficulties finding affordable housing and fair employment.
- The increasingly hostile climate is pushing refugees to consider returning to Sudan or attempting to cross the Mediterranean to Europe.