Members of the Muslim Brotherhood from Egypt could be eligible for asylum in the UK. The Sunni political organisation once boasted over 2 million member in Egypt alone.
The group, which has branches across the Middle East, was in charge in Egypt under President Mohammed Morsi. But since he was deposed in a military coup in 2013, the Brotherhood has been outlawed.
The Home Office document, reported by Middle East Monitor, says that some members or former members of the group may be eligible to claim asylum because of the risk of persecution by the current Egyptian regime.
"Those with a high profile in the MB [Muslim Brotherhood] or who have been politically active, particularly in demonstrations, may be able to show that they are at risk of persecution, including of being held in detention, where they may be at risk of ill-treatment, trial also without due process and disproportionate punishment." The report goes on to say, "Additionally, high profile supporters or those perceived to support the MB, such as journalists, may also be similarly at risk of persecution. In such cases, a grant of asylum will be appropriate."
Egypt's Christian minority have suffered various attacks since the Arab Spring began, especially during the Morsi Presidency. The Coptic Pope Tawadros II, was among those who supported the removal of Morsi.
