The Journey to Protection: Egypt’s Proposed Refugee Law
The Egyptian House of Representatives is currently in discussions regarding a draft law submitted by the government aimed at issuing a comprehensive refugee law. This draft law, which has been approved by the Defense and National Security Committee in the presence of the government, outlines the mechanisms for submitting asylum applications and the timelines for decision-making.
According to the proposed law, asylum seekers or their legal representatives must submit their applications to the Permanent Committee for Refugee Affairs, as established by the law. The competent committee is then required to make a decision on the application within six months for those who entered the country legally, and within one year for those who entered illegally.
Priority is given to applications submitted by vulnerable groups such as persons with disabilities, the elderly, pregnant women, unaccompanied children, or victims of human trafficking, torture, and sexual violence. The draft law also clearly defines the terms ‘refugee’ and ‘asylum seeker’, providing a framework for identifying and protecting those in need of international protection.