25 February 2026
To Whom It May Concern,
Subject: Urgent Call for Action Regarding Harassment of Eritrean Refugees in Egypt
We, the Eritrean Human Rights Defenders, are writing to express our profound concern and condemnation regarding the ongoing harassment and mistreatment of Eritrean refugees in Egypt.
Since the beginning of this year, we have witnessed a large increase in reports detailing very bad violations of basic human rights of Eritrean refugees in Egypt. This includes mass arrests, torture, and sexual violence, along with separation of Eritrean children from their parents who have been arrested. Tragically, two of these children have lost their lives as a result of this distressing situation.
Eritreans have also been taken to the Eritrean embassy and some may have already been refouled to Eritrea. Reports suggest that around 3,000 Eritrean refugees are currently detained in Egypt.
It is unconscionable that those who have managed to escape the most repressive regime in Eritrea are subjected to further victimization and persecution in seeking refuge. Such treatment is not merely unjust; it is a fundamental violation of human rights.
As human rights defenders, we call upon all stakeholders to acknowledge and act upon this urgent situation. Specifically, we urge that:
- The Egyptian government must take full responsibility for the protection of human rights and adhere to the established principles of human rights law.
- International human rights organizations must intervene immediately, without delay, to ensure the safety and dignity of Eritrean refugees in Egypt.
We urge all stakeholders involved to act immediately to prevent further human rights abuses perpetrated against Eritrean refugees.
Thank you for your attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely,
Eritrean Human Rights Defenders
eritrean.humanright.defenders@gmail.com
