Launch of the Joint Programme for Migrants and Refugees in Egypt

Your Excellency Assistant Minister Amr Al Guwaily, 

Your Excellency Ambassador Christian Berger

Your Excellency Ambassador Wael Badawi,

Your Excellencies from the Ministry of Health and Population and Ministry of Education and Technical Education, 

Your Excellencies and ladies and gentlemen, 

I am honored to be here today to join in launching the Joint UN Programme under the Joint Platform for Migrants and Refugees in Egypt. The Joint UN Programme is the result of the longstanding vision and leadership from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and of course the partnership and support from the European Union. The programme we launch today is a reflection of Egypt’s strong engagement as one of the Champion Countries of the Global Compact on Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration, and of Egypt’s Commitment to the Global Compact for Refugees. 

Allow me today to reflect on three points: first, on people on the move in Egypt; second, on the efforts of the Government in this area; and third, on the Joint UN Programme as a result of the work of the Joint Platform for Migrants and Refugees in Egypt.  

Egypt has long welcomed foreigners as their guests, but recent conflicts in neighboring countries, economic instability, and environmental challenges have led to an unprecedented influx of refugees and people on the move. Over 780,000 refugees are now registered with the UNHCR in Egypt. Estimates project that the number is likely to be over 1 million by next year, in addition to new migrants. 

In many cases, men, women, boys, and girls, are fleeing violence and persecution, seeking safety and stability. Egypt's strategic geographic location makes it both a transit hub and a destination for those escaping dire circumstances, but also for those looking for a chance at a better life. Migrants and refugees in Egypt bring value, enriching the society and economy in countless ways. Some have brought their own capital into the country, opening businesses, and investing in Egypt. The presence of migrants and refugees in Egypt reinforces our spirit of diversity, mutual understanding, and our commitment to humanitarian values.

This brings me to my second point: Let us be clear: Egypt is a host to millions of migrants and refugees. And this hospitality extends also to the less fortunate.

His Excellency, Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, at the 79th UNGA noted:

“Egypt will also continue to shoulder its responsibilities as part of the humanitarian response to the crises that are sweeping our region, which has made Egypt the third country in the world to receive asylum applications during the year 2023. The number of refugees [and migrants] exceeds 10 million. Under the leadership of His Excellency President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, we continue to bear the largest bear the largest share of support for our brothers from Arab and African countries, but there are limits which cannot be exceeded because of what the burden implies for Egypt. The international community, is therefore, duty-bound to fill the funding gap and to mobilize the necessary resources to meet the needs of humanitarian operations and meet the needs of refugees fleeing conflicts.”

We need to recognize the important contribution that Egypt makes at its own expense opening its social services to migrants and refugees, both in terms of education and health care. In the education only, the Government of Egypt invested over USD 72 million in 2023 to support migrant students in elementary and higher education. Similar investment is provided by Egypt in the health sector, with many health centers and clinics across Egypt, open to migrants and refugees. These are critical services.

The question is how we can amplify these efforts through the Joint Platform and how we can support the Government to continue further inclusion and create a more resilient society. 

Because the challenges are enormous – economic, social, administrative – which come with scaling up access to essential services. These systems which are already under strain due to the recent economic crisis, now face the additional pressure of having to serve a growing number of people. Prolonged waiting periods for obtaining valid residency further delay access to critical services and undermine the protection and care of those who are most vulnerable.

Without a doubt, Egypt has the potential to further establish itself as a global champion in the successful integration of migrants and refugees, and particularly in safeguarding the rights of those seeking international protection. Yet, it cannot and should not take on this endeavor alone.

Your excellencies, ladies, and gentlemen, today I want to emphasize the vital importance of sharing the responsibility of upholding the rights of migrants and refugees. As one of the primary host countries in the region, Egypt stands at a crossroads in its response, facing unprecedented challenges brought on by global displacement.

The responsibility for caring for and safeguarding people on the move cannot rest solely on the shoulders of Egypt; it demands a collective response from the international community, and also the recognition of the need to scale-up support to NGOs and grass-roots partners. These organizations deeply understand and effectively respond to the challenges and needs of migrants and refugees. 

Having outlined Egypt’s efforts and commitments, let me now turn to my last point – why we have gathered. The Joint UN Programme, which we launch today, harnesses the diverse expertise of UNHCR, IOM, UNICEF, and WHO. Together, they will work hand-in-hand with the Government to enhance access to education and health care services for vulnerable migrants and refugees, as well as address protection needs. You will soon hear a presentation from my colleague on additional details of the Joint UN Programme.   

The Joint UN Programme is a direct result of a Situational Assessment carried out by the members of the Joint Platform for Migrants and Refugees. In 2021, the platform was launched with a whole-of-government approach, alongside UN, development partners, civil society and other stakeholders – to rally around a collective mechanism to identify and strengthen the efforts to assist migrants, refugees, and their host communities in Egypt. 

Together, we can amplify our efforts through the Joint Platform as the mechanism for policy dialogue, identification of needs, programmes and initiatives, with the purpose to uphold the rights of all persons on the move, especially those who are most vulnerable.

Your Excellency Assistant Minister Al Guwaily, colleagues from various Ministries, Ambassador Berger and the EU, thank you for your support and partnership in driving this work forward. I also appreciate the presence of Ambassadors, development partners, and the dedicated network of NGOs involved. Special thanks to the UN Country Team for their commitment and expertise in driving this initiative forward.

The broad and distinguished presence here today is a powerful testament to our collective commitment to the Government of Egypt. This gathering truly reflects the spirit of the Joint Platform and the newly launched Joint Programme – let us continue to work and share responsibility, ensuring that Egypt remains a beacon of compassion and leadership in upholding the rights of migrants and refugees, with dignity for all.  

I thank you,       

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