The Egyptian Cabinet has approved a new anti-human smuggling law that is in line with international standards, safeguarding the rights and addressing the needs of smuggled migrants.The law stipulates imprisonment and substantial fines for smugglers and accomplices. Punishment amounts to life imprisonment and fines above USD 25,000 when smuggling results in the death or disability of migrant women or children, or when links to organized crime and terrorism are substantiated.</p><p>Importantly, the law does not criminalize irregular migrants, but obliges the State to provide protection in line with Egypt’s international obligations. Under the new law, the Government will merge the National Coordinating Committees to Combat and Prevent Illegal Migration (NCCPIM), and Trafficking in Persons (NCCTIP).The new Committee will be tasked to address irregular migration and trafficking in persons under a unified mandate, using a comprehensive approach.
