Satellite image of the Nile delta in Egypt
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Egypt An important link between Africa and the Middle East
Since President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi took office in 2014, civil society and the political opposition have found their scope for action increasingly limited. The division of powers is no longer guaranteed and the human rights situation is worrying. Freedom of opinion, freedom of assembly, press freedom and the work of non-governmental organisations are severely curtailed. Politics, the economy and society are increasingly coming under military control.
The Egyptian government has, to a large extent, been successful in mitigating the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic and keeping the country on a path to growth. However, the risk of social unrest remains high. The protests in 2011 were not just directed against an authoritarian regime. From the outset, people were also calling for jobs, affordable food and an end to corruption and nepotism. Egypt continues to face immense challenges when it comes to improving the economic and social situation of its people.
German development cooperation with Egypt
Due to its political, economic and security policy significance in the Middle East and North Africa region, Egypt is an important development partner for Germany. The aim of German development cooperation is to help improve the living conditions of the general population and boost reform efforts in politics and society.
At government negotiations in summer 2021, the German government committed new funding of 151.49 million euros to Egypt for development cooperation.
Core areas of cooperation are:
- Conserving nature and natural resources, protecting life on Earth
Area of intervention: water/wastewater - Climate and energy – Just transition
Areas of intervention: renewable energy and energy efficiency, sustainable urban development - Sustainable economic development, training and employment
Areas of intervention: private sector and financial sector development; technical and vocational education and training.
The BMZ is also engaged in activities aimed at improving governance, particularly strengthening civil society and empowering women and young people, and is involved in the areas of demographic development, digitalisation and administrative reform.
As at: 19/09/2022