The area covered by the Abyei Area Administration is located along the border with South Sudan and has a population of over 100 000.

The outbreak of conflict in May 2011 led to the displacement of thousands of people. Most were evacuated and settled in the neighbouring town of Agok where humanitarian services including health were provided. 

On 27 June 2011, a United Nations Security Council resolution ordered the establishment of the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei.

The security situation and the extent of infrastructure damage in Abyei, including to housing and service sites such as hospitals and clinics, has made it difficult for the population to return to their villages.