Egypt’s decision to suspend Syrian residency renewals pending security checks has left Syrians in the country uncertain about their future. The new law, ratified on December 17, gives the government authority over refugee status and has raised concerns among rights groups.
The UNHCR estimates six million Syrians live as refugees worldwide, with around 1 million expected to return home within the next six months. However, many Syrian residents in Egypt fear being forced to return to a country still reeling from a 13-year civil war.
Egypt is suspending the renewal of existing residency permits pending security checks, affecting hundreds of thousands of Syrians who hold permits for tourism, education, or business. The decision has been made on security considerations, with concerns about internal security in Egypt after Bashar al-Assad’s ouster.
Rights groups have criticized the law, citing an ambiguous definition of a refugee and giving authorities the right to deport anyone deemed not qualified. “We are afraid of the unknown,” said Ahmed al-Akhras, owner of a car spare parts business, who recently applied for UNHCR refugee status. He fears returning home due to the instability in Syria.
The new law includes provisions protecting refugee rights to work, health, and education, but has raised concerns about the country’s treatment of refugees. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty described the law as a balance between upholding international commitments and preserving national security. However, human rights organizations have expressed skepticism over the law’s ability to protect refugee rights.
The UNHCR is set to continue advocating for clear asylum procedures in Egypt, while Egyptians are awaiting clarity on their status under the new law.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/uncertainty-clouds-fate-syrians-egypt-after-assad-ouster-2024-12-24