European Union’s $8 Billion Aid Package for Egypt Sparks Controversy

Part of the deal is to stem migration flows to Europe, but watchdog groups insist it overlooks the El-Sisi government’s record and breaches of human rights.

Rescued immigrant Wael Mahmoud Mohammed (C), lies in bed with other survivors at Rashid Hospital in Rosetta, northern Egypt, on Sept. 21, 2016, after a boat capsized in the Mediterranean off Egypt's north coast, drowning 42 people. Mohamed El-Shahed/AFP via Getty Images

YAOUNDE, Cameroon—The European Union has strongly defended its recent move offering financing to Egypt in return for migration curbs.

There has been widespread criticism that the move violates humanitarian law.