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Left Behind: Sudan's Lost Children | NowThis World

NowThis・4 minutes read

The civil war in Sudan during the 1980s led to the displacement of thousands of children, known as the "Lost Boys and Girls," many of whom undertook a dangerous journey to Kakuma Refugee Camp in Kenya, where they faced starvation and violence. Despite a UN recommendation for resettlement in the U.S. in 1999, security concerns after September 11th prevented many from leaving, leaving them in Kakuma with dwindling food rations and limited educational resources.

Insights

  • The civil war in Sudan during the 1980s led to the tragic displacement of countless children, known as the "Lost Boys and Girls," who undertook dangerous journeys to escape violence and hardship, with many ultimately residing in the Kakuma Refugee Camp in Kenya, where they faced ongoing challenges such as food shortages and limited educational opportunities.
  • In 1999, despite the UN's recommendation to resettle 3,600 refugees in the U.S., heightened security concerns after September 11th halted their admissions, leaving these vulnerable individuals stranded in Kakuma, exacerbating their struggles with inadequate resources and support.

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Recent questions

  • What is a refugee camp?

    A refugee camp is a temporary settlement built to provide shelter and aid to people who have fled their home country due to conflict, persecution, or disaster. These camps are often established by governments or humanitarian organizations to offer basic necessities such as food, water, medical care, and security. Refugee camps can vary in size and conditions, ranging from well-organized facilities with access to services to overcrowded and under-resourced areas. The goal of a refugee camp is to support displaced individuals and families until they can return home or find permanent resettlement solutions.

  • How do children become refugees?

    Children become refugees when they are forced to flee their home country due to war, violence, persecution, or natural disasters. This often occurs in situations where their safety is threatened, and they may be separated from their families during the escape. Many children embark on dangerous journeys, facing numerous challenges such as starvation, dehydration, and exploitation. The experience of becoming a refugee can have profound psychological and emotional impacts on children, as they navigate the trauma of displacement and the uncertainty of their future. International laws and conventions exist to protect the rights of refugee children, ensuring they receive necessary support and care.

  • What challenges do refugees face?

    Refugees face numerous challenges that can significantly impact their well-being and ability to rebuild their lives. These challenges include limited access to basic necessities such as food, clean water, and healthcare, often exacerbated by overcrowded living conditions in camps. Additionally, refugees may encounter legal and bureaucratic obstacles when seeking asylum or resettlement in a new country. Psychological trauma from their experiences can also hinder their ability to adapt to new environments. Education opportunities for refugee children are frequently inadequate, limiting their future prospects. Overall, the journey and life in exile can be fraught with difficulties that require comprehensive support from governments and humanitarian organizations.

  • What is the role of the UN for refugees?

    The United Nations plays a crucial role in addressing the needs of refugees through its specialized agency, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). The UNHCR is responsible for protecting the rights of refugees and ensuring they receive essential assistance, including shelter, food, and medical care. The agency works to facilitate resettlement opportunities for refugees in third countries and advocates for their rights on an international level. Additionally, the UNHCR collaborates with governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders to develop policies and programs that support refugees and promote durable solutions to their plight, such as voluntary repatriation or local integration.

  • How can I help refugees?

    There are several ways individuals can help refugees, starting with raising awareness about their plight and the challenges they face. Donating to reputable organizations that provide aid and support to refugees is a direct way to contribute, as these funds can be used for food, shelter, education, and healthcare. Volunteering time and skills with local refugee assistance programs can also make a significant impact, whether through tutoring, providing legal assistance, or helping with integration efforts. Additionally, advocating for policies that support refugee rights and resettlement can help create a more welcoming environment for displaced individuals. Engaging in community initiatives that promote understanding and solidarity with refugees can foster a more inclusive society.

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Summary

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Lost Children of Sudan's Civil War

  • The civil war in Sudan during the 1980s resulted in up to 2 million deaths, forcing thousands of children, known as the "Lost Boys and Girls," to flee to Kenya, specifically the Kakuma Refugee Camp established in 1992.
  • Many children undertook a perilous thousand-mile journey to Ethiopia, facing starvation, dehydration, and violence, with only a fraction surviving to reach Northern Kenya, where they lived on food rations for nine years.
  • In 1999, the UN recommended 3,600 refugees for resettlement in the U.S., but post-September 11th security concerns halted admissions, leaving many stranded in Kakuma, facing reduced food rations and inadequate education resources.
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