The humanitarian situation in Chad continues to escalate as thousands of refugees and returnees flee the ongoing conflict in Sudan, placing immense pressure on local infrastructure and resources. According to the UNHCR Chad and CORE Sudan Emergency Situation update dated 26 October 2025, the number of displaced individuals arriving in eastern Chad is projected to reach nearly 973,000 by the end of the year. This includes both Sudanese refugees and Chadian nationals returning under dire circumstances, many of whom are in urgent need of shelter, food, water, and protection services.
The influx has prompted a coordinated response from UNHCR and its partners, including the Commission Nationale pour l'Accueil et la Réinsertion des Réfugiés et des Rapatriés, the International Organization for Migration, and various humanitarian agencies. Biometric registration efforts are underway in key locations such as Abéché, Adré, Am Nabak, and Farchana, with over 777,000 individuals already registered or pre-registered. These efforts are critical for ensuring accurate data collection, targeted assistance, and protection for vulnerable populations, particularly children and those with special needs.
The emergency response focuses on several priority sectors, including protection, child welfare, camp coordination, and management. Refugees are being hosted across multiple provinces in eastern Chad, including Ouaddaï, Wadi Fira, Sila, and Ennedi Est, where temporary shelters and community support systems are being rapidly scaled up. Despite these efforts, the sheer volume of arrivals has strained available resources, highlighting the urgent need for increased international support and funding to sustain relief operations.
UNHCR continues to adapt its strategies to meet the evolving needs of displaced populations, emphasizing the importance of maintaining dignity, safety, and access to essential services. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing assessments guiding the deployment of aid and personnel. As the crisis deepens, the humanitarian community calls for sustained engagement and solidarity to prevent further deterioration and to uphold the rights and well-being of those affected by the conflict.