“We live in fear,” Layla whispers quietly over the phone, making sure no one can overhear her. She escaped from Sudan with her husband and six children last year, seeking safety in Libya. Like all the Sudanese women interviewed by the BBC about their experiences of being trafficked to Libya, Layla’s name has been changed to protect her identity. Please be aware that this story contains distressing details.
In a shaky voice, Layla recounts how her home in Omdurman was raided during Sudan’s violent civil war in 2023. After fleeing to Egypt, they paid traffickers $350 (£338) to take them to Libya, promising a better life and job opportunities in cleaning and hospitality. However, upon crossing the border, the traffickers turned violent, holding them captive, demanding more money, and physically assaulting them. Layla’s son was injured and needed medical attention after being repeatedly beaten.
Despite being released after three days, Layla’s troubles in Libya were far from over. Her husband disappeared, her daughter was raped, and the family faced discrimination and threats. They are now trapped in Libya with no means to leave or return to Sudan. Facing hunger, homelessness, and violence, Layla struggles to provide for her children and keep them safe.
The story of Layla is just one of many tragic tales of Sudanese refugees in Libya. Millions have fled Sudan due to the civil war, with over 210,000 now seeking refuge in Libya. The journey to Libya, once seen as a beacon of hope, has turned into a nightmare for many, with reports of trafficking, violence, and abuse.
The harrowing experiences of Layla, Salma, Jamila, and Hanaa shed light on the harsh reality faced by Sudanese refugees in Libya. From rape and captivity to hunger and discrimination, these women’s stories paint a grim picture of the challenges they endure in search of safety and stability. Libya’s status as a transit point to Europe has made it a dangerous place for migrants, with reports of human rights violations and crimes against refugees.
As the international community grapples with the refugee crisis in Libya, the voices of Layla, Salma, Jamila, Hanaa, and countless others serve as a reminder of the urgent need for action to protect and support vulnerable populations in conflict-ridden regions. Their stories demand attention, empathy, and solidarity in the face of unimaginable suffering and injustice.