Egypt’s new asylum law sparks concerns over refugee rights

Egypt passed its first asylum law this week, raising fears among rights groups of a "security-focused approach" that may weaken refugee protections, according to AFP. Signed by President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, the law comes as Egypt struggles with an economic crisis and an influx of refugees from Sudan and Gaza.

The UNHCR reports over 845,000 registered refugees in Egypt, though the government claims to the country hosts nine million migrants and refugees. The law transfers refugee registration from the UNHCR to Egyptian authorities, creating a committee to oversee asylum processes.

Critics argue the law was rushed, lacks consultation, and criminalizes housing refugees without police notification. Of particular concern is that the law grants authorities power to act against refugees during national security crises.

Amid rising anti-refugee sentiment and strained resources, activists warn the law could erode protections, leaving refugees vulnerable in a country already grappling with financial and logistical challenges.