Egypt has achieved notable success in combating illegal migration, as highlighted by Foreign Minister Dr. Badr Abdel-Atty. During the launch of the fourth National Action Plan to Combat and Prevent Illegal Migration (2024-2026), he credited the effective coordination among various national agencies for this accomplishment.
Dr. Abdel-Atty pointed out that Egypt has not seen any illegal vessels depart from its shores since 2016, indicating the strength of the country’s anti-smuggling initiatives. The new action plan builds on a decade-long strategy, aiming to enhance Egypt’s ongoing efforts to address illegal migration.
The Foreign Ministry is committed to addressing migration issues, integrating them into its broader focus on Egyptians abroad. Dr. Abdel-Atty outlined various initiatives undertaken by the ministry, including consular services, multilateral negotiations, and bilateral agreements aimed at tackling the root causes of illegal migration while promoting safe migration pathways.
International cooperation is crucial in these efforts, according to Dr. Abdel-Atty, who highlighted Egypt’s collaboration with the European Union and its commitment to international frameworks such as the Palermo Protocol and the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families.
As regional conflicts have led to increased migration flows, Egypt has proactively worked to create a safe and stable environment for migrants and refugees. Dr. Abdel-Atty expressed appreciation for the contributions of both national and international partners in supporting these initiatives.