UNHCR, Egypt Collaborate on New Asylum Management Framework Following Legislative Milestone

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has announced its collaboration with the Egyptian government to develop a transitional plan for an asylum management system that aligns with international and regional standards.

This partnership follows the recent approval of Egypt's landmark "Foreign Asylum Law" by the country’s parliament, marking a significant step in regulating refugee and asylum seeker affairs.

In an interview with "Al-Masry Al-Youm", the UNHCR confirmed its active engagement with Egyptian authorities in shaping the new law. Before its passage, the agency provided comments on key provisions in the draft legislation published earlier this month. Since its approval, the UNHCR has extended its feedback to address all aspects of the legislation and will continue working closely with the government to refine its implementation.

Since 2019, the UNHCR and Egypt's Ministry of Foreign Affairs have collaborated on several initiatives to strengthen the country’s asylum capacity. This collaboration has included drafting working papers, hosting roundtable discussions, and conducting workshops, particularly in partnership with the Refugee Law Committee. These efforts have focused on establishing a legal and institutional framework consistent with international human rights and refugee law standards.

The new "Foreign Asylum Law" establishes a specialized government committee to oversee refugee affairs. This committee will receive and review asylum applications, determine their outcomes, and maintain comprehensive statistical data on refugees in Egypt. It will report to the Council of Ministers and work in coordination with the UNHCR to ensure the process adheres to international protocols.

The legislation sets specific timeframes for processing asylum applications, requiring submissions from individuals who entered Egypt legally within six months and from those who entered irregularly within one year.

Refugees granted status under the law will receive several critical protections and rights, including:

- Protection against refoulement: Refugees cannot be extradited to their home country or habitual residence if doing so poses a threat to their safety.

- Legal recourse: Access to the judiciary for the protection of their rights.

- Economic and social rights: Permission to work, access to education, and recognition of foreign academic qualifications.

- Travel documents: Issuance of official travel papers for international mobility.

A Turning Point for Refugee Rights in Egypt

The "Foreign Asylum Law "represents Egypt's first comprehensive legislation aimed at regulating the status and rights of refugees and asylum seekers. It is seen as a significant step forward in formalizing the country's response to the growing number of individuals seeking asylum within its borders.

As one of the primary host countries for refugees in the region, Egypt’s commitment to a regulated asylum framework not only strengthens its domestic policies but also serves as a model for regional cooperation in addressing migration and displacement challenges.

The UNHCR reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Egypt in implementing the law and ensuring that the asylum management system meets the highest international standards. This partnership underscores the shared responsibility between global organizations and host nations in protecting the rights and dignity of refugees.