Between the Millstones: the Situation of Migrant and Refugee Women in Egypt

The number of Sudanese nationals seeking refuge in Egypt has reached unprecedented levels, especially after the outbreak of war in Sudan in April 2023, making Sudanese nationals the largest expatriate group in the country. They are followed by Syrians and, in smaller numbers, migrants from South Sudan, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Yemen, Somalia and Iraq. At the same time, Egypt is facing an economic crisis that cannot be ignored. This crisis is the result of a variety of factors, including global influences and the burden of foreign debt, which have led to a rapid rise in prices. However, in recent months, there have been numerous cases of hate speech and incitement against migrants and refugees in Egypt, as evidenced by posts on social media, official statements, such as those made by the president and prime minister, and media contributions, especially on talk shows. Asylum seekers and migrants are blamed for the rise in food prices and housing costs and are seen as contributing to the worsening economic crisis.

Author: Shima Samy, head of data analysis unit of Seif Foundation

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