Background
With the dramatic increase in internal displacement in Sudan, the number of ‘gathering sites’ sheltering internally displaced people (IDPs) across the country continues to grow. Displacement is now protracted. Return to areas of origin is impeded, and there are limited alternatives to gathering sites, which are not equipped or appropriate for longer term shelter. With the Government’s announcement to reopen schools, there is now an urgent imperative to find solutions that both support children’s return to education, and ensure access to appropriate, safe and sustainable shelter. The resumption of the use of schools for education puts into question the current use of these buildings as gathering sites. Any movement of IDPs from schools will need to consider protection risks and alternative shelter options given the displacement situation is likely to continue. According to information from the Site Management Sector, 991 gathering sites hosting over 183,010 people were identified and mapped between August and November 2023. According to DTM data, the total population of IDPs is estimated at 4,955,538 (973,444 Households) to date. The majority of IDPs are living within host communities. It is against this background and the commencement of relocation planning in some states that the ICCG has developed a common position on relocation of IDPs, in line with Sites hosting internally displaced people in Sudan: ICG Guidance on mitigation, response and way forward (ICCG Guidance Note).
ICCG Position on Relocation and Alternative Solutions to Gathering Sites:
1. The ICCG recognizes and supports the critical need for the resumption of education, but pragmatic planning is required that balances access to education with the need for safe and dignified shelter for displaced people. Alternative solutions should be fully explored before relocation is considered. The ICCG reiterates that all relocations should be planned and conducted in compliance with the principle of Do No Harm, international human rights and humanitarian law, and in a manner that protects in particular the rights to life, dignity, liberty and security of all people affected.
2. The ICCG opposes the establishment of camps and camp-like sites, unless as a measure of last resort after all alternative options have been exhausted.
3. The ICCG maintains that any relocation or alternative solutions to gathering sites be planned in full consultation with displaced people and relevant stakeholders and be within the existing capacities and resources of relevant line ministries and humanitarian partners.