Ahead of the UN’s Human Rights Review on January 28, Egypt intensifies repression of dissent through arbitrary detentions and investigations against critics including human rights advocate Hossam Bahgat. Authorities also arrested a TikTok user for criticisms of President al-Sisi. The crackdown aligns with heightened government efforts to suppress opposition as they prepare to defend their human rights record.
Amnesty International has reported an escalation in Egypt’s crackdown on peaceful dissent leading up to its upcoming human rights review by the UN on January 28. Recent actions by authorities include arbitrary detentions and politically motivated investigations against critics such as prominent human rights defender Hossam Bahgat and opposition politician Hisham Kassem. Additionally, other individuals, including a TikTok user, have faced arrests for expressing dissenting views ahead of significant commemorative events.
Egypt’s human rights situation is under scrutiny as the UN’s Universal Periodic Review approaches. Amnesty International has documented persistent violations, including arbitrary detentions, torture, and intimidation tactics employed against dissidents. The backdrop of this review, coupled with the anniversary of the 2011 Revolution, signifies a critical time for human rights advocacy in the country as the government attempts to suppress dissent.
In light of the impending UN review, Egypt’s government intensifies its repression of dissenters, highlighting a commitment to stifling opposition rather than improving its human rights record. Notable figures have been subjected to criminal investigations and detention, underscoring the precarious state of civil liberties in Egypt. These actions are a clear indicator of the political climate as the country navigates international scrutiny.
Original Source: www.amnesty.org
