The Egyptian House of Representatives is currently discussing a draft law proposed by the government regarding refugees, following approval by the Defense and National Security Committee. This law outlines the process for submitting asylum applications and the timeline for decision-making.
According to the draft law, asylum seekers or their representatives must submit applications to the Permanent Committee for Refugee Affairs. The competent committee will then have six months to decide on the application if the asylum seeker entered the country legally, and one year if they entered illegally.
Priority will be given to applications from vulnerable groups such as persons with disabilities, the elderly, pregnant women, unaccompanied children, and victims of trafficking or violence. The competent committee will either grant refugee status or deport the asylum seeker, with notification of the decision given to the applicant.
The draft law also defines who qualifies as a ‘refugee’ and an ‘asylum seeker’, providing clarity on these terms. Overall, the law aims to establish a structured and fair process for handling refugee applications in Egypt.
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