Egypt's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Egyptian diaspora have intensified efforts to manage migration, aligning with President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi's directives. A comprehensive strategy addresses the root causes of irregular migration, shifting from short-term support to sustainable partnerships. This approach aims to connect migration with development, creating new opportunities for Egyptian youth to secure decent and safe employment.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has launched seven programs to facilitate the transition of trained Egyptian workers to seven European countries. Egypt is also leading a national effort to develop a training and qualification system that meets international labor market needs. This initiative opens up new job prospects for Egyptian youth, promoting safe and systematic migration, supporting the national economy, and achieving development goals.
The year 2026 marks a significant milestone, as it will have been ten years since any irregular migration boats departed from Egyptian shores to Europe. This achievement reflects the success of Egypt's comprehensive approach to combating irregular migration, which focuses on addressing the phenomenon's root causes, protecting citizens' lives, and fighting human trafficking and migrant smuggling.
Egypt's efforts have led to a 67% decrease in irregular migration to Europe among Egyptians this year. This decline underscores the effectiveness of national initiatives in protecting citizens and preserving their lives. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also secured over $500 million in international funding for projects related to migration governance and around $50 million for a program supporting migrants, refugees, and host communities.
Egypt has implemented 179 events, training programs, and workshops to build institutional capacities. The country has also completed the legal and institutional framework for its national asylum system, in line with national laws and international commitments. Despite these efforts, Egypt continues to face increasing burdens due to hosting millions of refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants fleeing regional crises and conflicts.
Egypt provides essential services to these individuals, adhering to its policy of not establishing camps. However, the country faces a decline in international funding for refugees and host communities, widening the gap between needs and available resources. This situation amplifies the economic and developmental challenges Egypt faces in managing migration.
Egypt reiterates its call for the international community to fulfill its commitments and shared responsibilities towards countries bearing increasing migration-related burdens. The country seeks sustainable financial and technical support, addressing the root causes of irregular migration and refugee crises, particularly armed conflicts. Egypt emphasizes the principle of shared burdens and responsibilities in managing migration.
Key points
- Egypt has not seen any irregular migration boats depart for Europe in the past ten years.
- The country has secured over $500 million in international funding for migration-related projects.
- Egypt hosts millions of refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants, seeking increased international support.
