Egyptian Minister of Labor, Hassan Raddad, has emphasized that the launch of the new guide for standard procedures for employment abroad marks a significant step towards developing a system for Egyptian workers in foreign markets. This move aims to facilitate transition procedures, enhance protection and care, and ensure the rights of Egyptian workers abroad, in line with legislative developments and international labor market needs.
The new guide is part of the implementation of directives from President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to protect and care for Egyptian citizens at home and abroad, providing decent job opportunities and opening new prospects for Egyptian cadres in various countries. The launch event was attended by Eric Oschlan, Technical Team Leader for Decent Work in North Africa and Director of the International Labor Organization (ILO) office in Egypt and Eritrea, and Dr. Sebastian Lorion Sikaw, representative of the European Union mission to Egypt.
The Egyptian government is taking a keen interest in developing the employment system abroad by enhancing oversight of labor export procedures, raising awareness of rights and obligations, and providing necessary guarantees to protect Egyptian workers abroad. The new Labor Law No. 14 of 2025 includes amendments and additions aimed at keeping pace with labor market developments, enhancing oversight of labor export companies, and supporting the role of labor representation offices in monitoring the conditions of Egyptians abroad.
Minister Raddad stated that the Ministry of Labor has taken several steps to enhance the protection of Egyptian workers, including the establishment of a "pre-departure guidance unit" that aims to inform workers about the requirements of working abroad, their rights, and obligations. The Ministry is also implementing awareness campaigns to highlight the risks of irregular employment and the importance of adhering to legal and contractual procedures before traveling.
The new guide is the result of extended efforts to audit, document, and standardize procedures, contributing to facilitating the transition of Egyptian workers abroad, improving the efficiency of services provided to them, and ensuring their compatibility with national legislation and international labor standards. The Minister praised the cooperation with the ILO and the European Union in preparing the guide and developing related procedures and services.
The Ministry of Labor is continuing its work within the second phase of the "THAMM PLUS" project, which aims to enhance job opportunities for potential migrant workers by supporting vocational training and skill development according to foreign labor market needs. The project also seeks to promote regular and sustainable labor mobility paths and support bilateral agreements that provide decent job opportunities for Egyptians in EU countries.
Minister Raddad stressed that developing employment procedures abroad, standardizing services, and enhancing workers' awareness of their rights are essential elements in building a more efficient and sustainable system that balances labor market needs, employers' interests, and the rights and dignity of Egyptian workers. He confirmed the Ministry's continued efforts, in cooperation with national and international partners, to provide safe and organized job opportunities and enhance protection and care for Egyptian workers abroad.
Key points
- The new guide aims to facilitate the employment of Egyptians abroad and ensure their rights and protection.
- The guide was developed in cooperation with the International Labor Organization (ILO) and the European Union.
- The Egyptian government is working to enhance the protection of Egyptian workers abroad through various measures, including the establishment of a pre-departure guidance unit.
