Author
Egypt’s legal system demonstrates inconsistencies with international law when it comes to the administrative detention of foreigners. The law does not set a maximum time limit for this type of detention and gives the executive authority the power to detain foreigners indefinitely under the pretext of deportation, without clear standards or any judicial oversight. In the event that a deportation is not possible, such as when a person’s country refuses to take them back, this type of detention then becomes a form of prolonged imprisonment that may last for months or even years, in very poor conditions that include overcrowding, lack of medical care, and risk of torture. It also involves legal problems, like not informing people why they are being held or not providing translators.