https://sudantribune.com/article/66780
Eritrean refugees and asylum seekers in Egypt face systematic human rights abuses, including mass arrests, physical torture, and forced deportation back to Eritrea where they risk further persecution . As of early 2026, reports indicate that over 3,000 Eritreans are being held in Egyptian detention centers under harsh conditions.Documented Forms of AbusePhysical Torture: Detainees have reported severe beatings and burns inflicted with hot water and corrosive substances.Sexual Violence: There are widespread reports of sexual abuse and gender-based violence against both men and women in detention facilities.Arbitrary Detention: Many Eritreans are held for prolonged periods in police stations and prisons without charge or trial. Some have died in custody under unknown circumstances.Extortion: Traffickers and occasionally security officials have been accused of holding Eritreans for ransom, using physical violence to extort money from relatives abroad.Denied Access to Protection: Authorities often deny detainees access to the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) , preventing them from seeking asylum and making them vulnerable to "refoulement" (forced return).Forced Deportation (Refoulement)Egypt has faced condemnation from UN Human Rights experts for its policy of collective expulsion.Deportation to Persecution: Forcefully returned Eritreans are often considered "traitors" and face torture, indefinite military service, and enforced disappearance upon arrival.Lack of Due Process: Deportations frequently occur without individual risk assessments or the opportunity to challenge the removal in court.Security Force CollusionReports from organizations like Human Rights Watch have documented collusion between Egyptian security forces and human traffickers, particularly in the Sinai Peninsula.Handing Over Victims: Security officials have reportedly handed escaped victims back to traffickers or directly to the Eritrean Embassy to facilitate deportation.Lethal Force: Border guards have historically used lethal force against migrants attempting to cross the border into Israel.