Economic expert Abdel Hamid Batikh: The Egyptian state has presented a unique humanitarian model by accommodating millions of refugees of various nationalities without establishing isolated camps.
The world’s celebration of the International Day of Migrants and Human Solidarity underscores Egypt’s pivotal role in inclusion and humanitarian and economic support.
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Engineer Abdel Hamid Bateekh, economic expert and pioneer in community work, community development issues, and human rights in Egypt and abroad, affirmed that celebrating the International Day of Migrants, coinciding with the International Human Solidarity Day, represents an important opportunity to highlight shared human values—foremost among them respect for human dignity, support for the most vulnerable groups, and the promotion of principles of justice and solidarity among peoples.
Engineer Abdel Hamid Bateekh explained that migration has become one of the most complex global issues as a result of armed conflicts, climate change, and economic crises, which have driven millions of people to seek safe havens that provide a minimum level of stability and a dignified life.
In this context, he pointed out that the Egyptian state has presented a unique humanitarian model in hosting millions of migrants and refugees of multiple nationalities without establishing isolation camps, instead integrating them into society and providing access to basic services in education, healthcare, and employment—reflecting a genuine commitment to international conventions and humanitarian values.
He added that Egypt has not limited its role to hosting, but has practiced human solidarity in its broadest sense, particularly toward countries experiencing conflicts and wars, foremost among them solidarity with the Palestinian people and the Gaza Strip, through political, humanitarian, and relief support, opening crossings, facilitating the entry of aid, and receiving the injured—clearly demonstrating that human solidarity is not merely a slogan but a practical reality.
Engineer Abdel Hamid Bateekh also addressed the human rights dimension of migration, noting that migrant and displaced women are the most vulnerable to risks and violations, whether during displacement journeys or after arrival. This has been evident in recent waves of displacement, especially the displacement of women from Sudan and other countries, where many face risks of violence, exploitation, and the absence of legal and social protection.
He stressed the importance of the role played by civil society organizations and human rights institutions in supporting migrants and refugees—particularly women—by providing psychological and moral support, legal assistance, and empowerment programs that contribute to their protection, integration, and ability to rely on themselves.
From an economic perspective, he explained that migration is not necessarily a burden; rather, it can represent a positive addition to the economy if managed wisely, by benefiting from skills and expertise, strengthening economic integration policies, and creating a fair legislative and regulatory environment that safeguards everyone’s rights.
He concluded by emphasizing that celebrating the International Day of Migrants and the International Human Solidarity Day should serve as a starting point for strengthening partnerships between the state, civil society, and the private sector, and for building comprehensive policies based on human rights and sustainable development—believing that true human solidarity is the path to confronting crises and building a more just and equitable future for all.
