The human rights situation in Egypt in 2024 remains dire, characterized by systematic repression of dissent, significant economic challenges, and a political landscape that stifles genuine opposition. Here’s an overview of the political, economic, and social contexts influencing human rights in the country, along with significant events that have shaped the current landscape:
Political Context
The political environment in Egypt is still dominated by President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, whosecured another term in the presidential elections held in December 2023. These electionswere marred by widespread allegations of repression, as genuine opposition candidateswere barred from participating[1][3]. The climate surrounding the elections was one ofsevere restrictions on freedoms of expression, association, and peaceful assembly[2][4].Throughout the year, the government has targeted critics, leading to numerous arrests andprosecutions of activists and journalists[3][5]. A particularly notable case involved thesentencing of 29 rights activists to prison terms in a mass trial that lacked due process[1][4].
In 2023, a “national dialogue” was initiated to address political grievances, but it was effectively suspended as opposition figures withdrew in protest against renewed crackdowns on dissent[2][5]. This dialogue was intended to provide a platform for political reform but failed to bring about any meaningful changes due to the government’s oppressive tactics[3][4].
Economic Context
Economically, Egypt is facing a severe crisis characterized by high inflation, rising poverty rates, and inadequate social protections[1][3]. The government’s economic policies, particularly the deal with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) that led to the floating of the Egyptian pound, have resulted in significant currency depreciation and soaring food prices[2][4]. Between August 2022 and July 2023, food prices increased by 68%, putting immense pressure on the population’s ability to afford basic necessities[2][5].
In response to these challenges, President Sisi announced a minimal increase in the public sector minimum wage in September 2023. However, many experts deemed this increase insufficient, given the inflationary pressures faced by the population[3][5]. The government’s budget allocations have also prioritized debt repayment over essential services, further limiting access to healthcare and education[1][4].
Social Context
Socially, the human rights landscape in Egypt is marked by widespread discrimination and violence against marginalized groups, including women, religious minorities, and LGBTQ+ individuals[1][4]. Women and girls continue to face significant barriers to their rights, while religious minorities are often subjected to systemic discrimination[2][5]. Reports have also indicated ongoing forced evictions and demolitions of informal settlements, which have displaced thousands of residents[3][5].
Refugees and asylum seekers in Egypt have faced arbitrary detention and forced expulsions, reflecting a broader pattern of human rights violations against vulnerable populations[4][5]. The situation for these groups remains precarious, with limited legal protections and frequent abuses[3][5].
Significant Events
Several key events have shaped the human rights situation in Egypt in 2024:
Presidential Elections:
The December 2023 elections, which lacked genuine competition, highlighted the ongoing suppression of political dissent in the country[2][4]. Many opposition figures were barred from running, and the elections took place in a climate of severe restrictions on basic freedoms[1][3].
International Relations:
In September 2023, the U.S. government waived human rights conditions on military aid to Egypt, drawing criticism from human rights advocates[2][4]. This decision underscored the complex relationship between international support and domestic human rights practices, as it was seen as undermining efforts to hold the Egyptian government accountable for its abuses[3][5].
Ongoing Repression:
Throughout 2024, Egyptian authorities have continued to detain critics and activists, with reports of torture and enforced disappearances persisting[1][4]. There have also been documented cases of targeting the families of dissidents living abroad, indicating a broader strategy of repression that extends beyond Egypt’s borders[3][5].
In summary, the human rights situation in Egypt in 2024 is shaped by a combination of political repression, economic hardship, and social discrimination[1][4]. The government’s continued crackdown on dissent, coupled with a failing economy, presents significant challenges for the protection and promotion of human rights in the country[2][5].