Unfolding Human Rights Concerns in Egypt
An independent human rights expert has raised alarming concerns regarding Egypt’s persistent misuse of anti-terrorism laws to silence human rights defenders. Mary Lawlor, the Special Rapporteur on human rights defenders, noted that despite recent improvements—like releasing some detainees and developing a national human rights strategy—the continuous application of these laws remains problematic.
The Dark Practice of ‘Recycling’ Charges
Lawlor highlighted a worrying trend known as “rotation” or “recycling,” where human rights defenders are re-charged with similar offenses, even after they have served their sentences. “What is particularly striking is the continued detention of human rights defenders past their release date,” she stated, echoing concerns raised in 22 previous communications to the Egyptian government.
Specific Cases Under Scrutiny
Particularly troubling is the plight of Ms. Hoda Abdel Moneim, who was not released on her due date of November 1, 2023, but faced new charges instead. She is currently navigating two new trials for accusations virtually identical to those for which she had completed her sentence, posing a clear breach of legal principles.
Similarly, Aisha al-Shater was charged again with the same terrorism-related accusations linked to her earlier sentencing. In another case, Ibrahim Metwally, who has been held without trial since 2017, continues to face fresh charges despite being granted conditional release twice by the court.
Inhumane Detention Conditions
Lawlor expressed outrage over the dismal living conditions for these defenders, revealing that they suffer health issues compounded by lack of medical treatment. “It is unacceptable for prison authorities to deny recommended surgery or bar transfer to a hospital,” she emphasized. Their reported denial of adequate medical resources signals a troubling abandonment of humane treatment standards.
Call for Accountability
In light of these violations, the UN expert is urging Egyptian authorities to fulfill their international human rights obligations. Lawlor maintains communication with the authorities, advocating for a systematic reevaluation of their policies against human rights defenders. The urgent need for accountability in light of continuous detainments and charges looms large as Egypt’s human rights narrative remains fraught with distressing challenges.
– UN expert Mary Lawlor criticizes Egypt’s misuse of anti-terrorism laws. – Human rights defenders face repeated charges post-release, indicating ‘recycling’ practices. – Hoda Abdel Moneim, Aisha al-Shater, and Ibrahim Metwally have endured unjust detention. – Detainees suffer from inadequate medical treatment and poor conditions. – Urgent calls for Egypt to meet international human rights obligations continue.
The situation for human rights defenders in Egypt remains critical as anti-terrorism laws are used to unjustly imprison individuals, with repeated charges indicating systemic abuse. The alarming practice of ‘recycling’ charges undermines legal rights and dignity. Furthermore, appalling detention conditions pose severe threats to health and wellbeing, spotlighting the pressing need for reforms and compliance with international human rights standards.
Original Source: african.business
