Given Egypt’s own economic headwinds, Egypt is undertaking strenuous efforts to host a staggering number of foreign nationals and asylum seekers within its borders.
According to Wael Badawi, the Deputy Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Refugees, Migration and Combatting Human Trafficking, Egypt is currently home to nearly 9 million foreign residents and over 570,000 asylum seekers from 133 different countries. Badawi revealed these figures in a speech delivered at a high-level ministerial conference on migration, held in Copenhagen on Monday.
Remarkably, these foreign nationals and asylum seekers are granted access to Egypt’s public services, such as healthcare and education, on an equal footing with Egyptian citizens. This inclusive approach aligns with the goals of Egypt Vision 2030, the country’s national development plan, which aims to improve living conditions for all segments of the population – including citizens, immigrants and refugees.
“Egypt is following a holistic approach to the migration problem by focusing on the root causes of illegal migration and setting up legal and regulatory mechanisms to protect migrants and refugees from falling prey to human traffickers,” Badawi stated, underscoring the government’s multifaceted strategy.
This humanitarian response is all the more impressive. Yet, the country’s commitment to providing refuge and support to millions of displaced people speaks volumes about its compassionate and responsible global citizenship.
By welcoming foreigners and asylum seekers with open arms and ensuring their access to essential public services, Egypt is setting an example for the international community. This story offers valuable lessons on the importance of prioritizing humanitarian concerns alongside economic considerations when addressing the complex issue of global migration.
