On Sunday, the European Union unveiled a significant aid package for Egypt, valued at $8 billion. This financial support comes at a critical time for Egypt, which is grappling with economic challenges. The EU’s decision is also driven by concerns over potential increases in migration to Europe, spurred by unrest and economic instability in neighboring regions.
This financial assistance is set to be formalized during a high-profile visit to Egypt. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, along with the leaders of Belgium, Italy, Austria, Cyprus, and Greece, are expected to sign the agreement. Egyptian officials have confirmed these plans.
The aid package, to be disbursed over the next three years, comprises both grants and loans. It aims to support Egypt, the Arab world’s most populous nation, as announced by the European Union Mission in Cairo.
An important document from the EU mission in Egypt highlights a significant upgrade in the relationship between the two parties. They have elevated their cooperation to a “strategic and comprehensive partnership.” This enhancement is set to broaden the scope of Egypt-EU collaboration across various sectors, both economic and beyond.
Part of the EU’s support will focus on strengthening Egypt’s border security, particularly along its border with Libya. Libya serves as a key route for migrants from Africa and the Middle East, fleeing conflict and poverty, aiming to reach Europe. Additionally, the EU will assist Egypt in providing refuge to Sudanese citizens escaping the ongoing conflict in their homeland.
Egypt has long been a sanctuary for migrants from sub-Saharan Africa, offering a reprieve from war and poverty. For many, Egypt represents a final destination or a temporary stopover on their journey to Europe, hoping to cross the perilous Mediterranean Sea.
Despite not being a major departure point for dangerous sea voyages to Europe, Egypt is under migratory pressure from the region. This pressure is compounded by fears that the conflict between Israel and Hamas could extend into Egyptian territory.
However, the aid package has faced criticism from international human rights organizations, concerned about Egypt’s human rights record. Amnesty International has specifically called out the agreement, urging European leaders to avoid complicity in the human rights abuses occurring in Egypt.
Amnesty International emphasizes the need for the EU to demand clear human rights benchmarks from the Egyptian government. Eve Geddie, the head of Amnesty International’s European Institutions Office, criticized Egypt’s restrictions on media, freedom of expression, and the ongoing crackdown on civil society.