Egypt (Washington Insider Magazine) – Seven international human rights organizations, including Human Rights Watch (HRW), have called on the UN Human Rights Council to take urgent action against widespread human rights violations in Egypt. Despite previous joint statements in 2014 and 2021, the situation has further deteriorated, with the Egyptian government continuing to suppress dissent, detain activists, and stifle free speech.
Key Concerns Raised:
- Ongoing Crackdown: Thousands remain imprisoned, including journalists, activists, and political opponents, with counterterrorism laws used to justify detentions.
- Freedom of Expression Suppressed: Egypt is one of the largest jailers of journalists, with strict media censorship and repressive laws limiting press freedom.
- Gender-Based Violence & Discrimination: Women’s rights defenders face harassment, arrest, and prosecution for speaking out against sexual violence.
- Use of Enforced Disappearances & Torture: Authorities systematically silence critics through intimidation, disappearances, and inhumane prison conditions.
- Abuse of Exiles’ Families: Security forces target family members of dissidents living abroad to suppress opposition.
Call for UN Action:
The rights groups urge UN member states to:
- Issue a follow-up joint statement or resolution condemning Egypt’s human rights violations.
- Demand reforms that allow freedom of speech, fair trials, and end political detentions.
- Hold Egypt accountable for failing to meet its human rights commitments, including those made during COP27.
