Feb 24 • 11:08 UTC 🌍 Africa AllAfrica

Egypt: NGO Denounces the Detention and Torture of Eritrean Refugees in Egypt

A human rights NGO reports that over 3,000 Eritrean refugees have been detained in Egypt this year, with many alleging torture and sexual violence.

A recent report by Human Rights Concern - Eritrea (HRCE) reveals alarming statistics regarding the treatment of Eritrean refugees in Egypt, indicating that more than 3,000 people have been detained since January 10th of this year. Many of these refugees have reported severe forms of abuse, including torture by beatings, burns from hot water and corrosive substances, and instances of sexual violence. The testimonies were collected by the NGO, providing photographic evidence of the abuse, which highlights a significant human rights crisis facing these vulnerable individuals.

HRCE also pointed to the tragic deaths of two young children, reportedly due to the arrest of their mother, underscoring the severe impact of such detentions on families and children. Furthermore, there are concerns that some detainees may have already been forcibly deported to Eritrea despite being registered with the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR), which is meant to protect them from such actions. This situation raises serious questions about the adherence to international refugee laws and the safety of refugees in host countries.

In light of these findings, HRCE has called on the Egyptian government to uphold its obligations under international law, urging the international community and the United Nations to intervene and advocate for the rights of refugees. The implications of this report extend beyond Egypt, as it sheds light on the broader crisis affecting refugees globally and the need for stronger protections and support for vulnerable populations fleeing conflict and persecution.

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