Thousands flee Sudan's North Kordofan as paramilitary attacks intensify

A significant wave of displacement is unfolding in Sudan's North Kordofan state, with thousands of civilians forced to abandon their homes due to escalating attacks by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The Sudan Doctors Network confirmed on Friday that more than 4,500 individuals have fled the Bara locality, seeking refuge from the deteriorating security situation and widespread violations committed against civilians.

Dire Conditions for the Displaced

In a statement published on the social media platform X, the medical group detailed the dire circumstances of the flight. Their field reports indicate that while approximately 1,900 of the displaced have reached the relative safety of El Obeid city, many others remain stranded along the route. These individuals are enduring harsh conditions, grappling with severe shortages of food, clean water, and adequate shelter as they escape the conflict zone.

A Broader Pattern of Displacement

The figures from the Sudan Doctors Network align with a larger, alarming trend of displacement in the region. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) also reported a sharp increase in people fleeing Bara due to worsening insecurity. This recent exodus contributes to a staggering total of over 35,000 civilians displaced in just a four-day period, highlighting the rapid escalation of the humanitarian crisis.

The Wider Sudanese Conflict

This violence in North Kordofan is a direct consequence of the wider war that erupted between the Sudanese army and the RSF on April 15, 2023. Despite numerous international and regional mediation attempts, the conflict persists, having already resulted in approximately 20,000 fatalities. According to United Nations and local reports, the war has created one of the world's most severe displacement crises, forcing over 15 million people from their homes as either refugees or internally displaced persons.