The joint platform is an initiative from the Egyptian government and UN in Egypt to support cooperation between the government, UN, development partners and donors as well as boost coordination and provide sustainable development resources to migrants and refugees.

“Egypt provided generously basic services like health and education to most migrants, refugees and refuge seekers and takes additional measures to help those groups to face COVID-19 pandemic,” UN Resident Coordinator Elena Panova said during the launch ceremony, which was held at Egypt’s foreign ministry headquarters.

From his side, FM Sameh Shoukry stated that Egypt has hosted for decades those who needed protection and has adopted an approach based on respect for the human rights of migrants and refugees, integrating them into the Egyptian society while eliminating all forms of discrimination and ensuring that no one was left behind in sharing the benefits of social and economic developments.

According to the UNCHR’s latest numbers, Egypt hosts more than 265,000 registered asylum-seekers and refugees from 65 countries.