DBA: Sudanese refugees forcibly deported from Egypt and UNHCR bears responsibility
The Darfur Bar Association (DBA) confirmed that Sudanese refugees were forcibly deported from Egypt to Sudan recently after fleeing the horrors of the ongoing war, while holding the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) fully responsible for their humanitarian situation.
The refugees explained -according to a statement made by the Association on Friday- that they suffered during their arrest and detention in security departments throughout the deportation period. The refugees went on to explain about the hardships they encountered in attempting to adjust to the cold and weather fluctuations on the road.
Many refugees reported that they witnessed deaths among the deportees due to malnutrition and diseases after their arrival in Sudan, while dozens of others are still awaiting deportation, according to the Association’s statement.
The Association reiterated its appreciation for Egypt’s role in receiving thousands of Sudanese refugees fleeing the war. However, the deported refugees reported that some of them were carrying valid cards issued by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and explained that they had contacted (UNHCR) through their relatives to relay information regarding their arrest, however, no measures were taken to protect them.
The Darfur Bar Association expressed its deep regret for the difficult humanitarian conditions facing these refugees, and pointed out the clear failure of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees to fulfill its legal responsibilities towards refugees.
The Association stated that the (UNHCR) bears full responsibility for protecting refugees in accordance with International Laws, and must intervene urgently to ensure their rights to obtain the necessary protection.
It also stressed that returning these refugees to conflict areas, in light of the current situation in Sudan, is a clear violation of human rights principles, calling on the Egyptian authorities to take into account the conditions of these refugees and stop the process of forced deportations.
The Darfur Bar Association and its partners held the (UNHCR) fully responsible for this humanitarian situation, and called on the High Commissioner Office to take all possible measures to protect Sudanese refugees in line with its legal obligations.
