Egypt Submission to the 34th UPR

Introduction

CSW is a human rights organisation specialising in freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) for all.

This submission seeks to highlight particular concerns regarding the right to FoRB in the Arab Republic of Egypt, as well as restrictions on freedom of expression, assembly and association.

During the second Universal Periodic Review (UPR) cycle in 2014, Egypt accepted eight recommendations pertaining to FoRB, which were mostly non-specific and included calls for Egypt to encourage initiatives that promote ‘respect and religious tolerance’ (South Sudan, Cuba, Oman) and create ‘better understanding between all people and religions’ (Azerbaijan). The country was further urged to promote social dialogue to bring positive values to religious discourse (Jordan, Pakistan). Egypt noted Cape Verde’s recommendation to strengthen protections of the rights of religious minorities, particularly the right to freedom of worship, and to end ‘all impunity for violations of these rights.’

Read the Submission on the Arab Republic of Egypt in full.