Is the Egyptian ICJ declaration a departure from its traditional post-1979 role as a peace mediator? Is Cairo preparing for a new war with Tel Aviv? The answer is simple: No. If anything, the declaration represents a desperate diplomatic move by a regime whose political relevance and regional power are steadily eroding.
Inside Egypt’s secret scheme to detain and deport thousands of Sudanese refugees
Thousands of Sudanese refugees have been detained by Egypt in a network of secret military bases and then deported back to their war-torn country often without the chance to claim asylum.
Experts said state abuses against refugees and migrants are likely to increase as a result of the new $8 billion EU funding package, which includes more than $200 million for migration control. The deal is part of a part of a broader EU approach of partnering with third countries – many with poor human rights records – to reduce migration.
“These agreements are unlikely to stem the flow [of migrants],” said Hossam el-Hamalawy, an Egyptian journalist and scholar who researches the country’s military and security services. “Instead, they may exacerbate casualties and further empower the already dominant military, which lies at the root of many issues in Egypt.”