Press Release
The “Committee for Justice” (CFJ) has expressed strong condemnation and rejection of the repressive measures employed by Egyptian authorities against journalist and human rights defender Rasha Azab, emphasizing that these practices represent a blatant violation of human rights and freedom of expression.
CFJ highlighted that targeting Azab is a clear attempt at intimidation, aiming to impose restrictions on public freedoms, posing a severe threat to the overall climate for journalism and human rights in Egypt.
This comes in parallel with Azab’s open sit-in at the Egyptian Journalists’ Syndicate headquarters, which began on December 16, 2024. She is protesting what she described as “thuggish practices” by the Ministry of Interior and the National Security Agency, having exhausted all legal avenues to no avail.
Azab revealed that the security pressures and harassment she faces include threats of arrest, surveillance, and denial of her legal rights. Examples include being denied access to surveillance footage after her car was stolen and the Public Prosecution’s refusal to disclose the status of investigations into her complaints.
She also reported that the Housing and Development Bank rejected her application for a mortgage loan, citing “security instructions,” and recounted an incident where two individuals who were following her were allowed to flee after the Azbakeya Police Station refused to file a report, claiming “higher orders.”
In response, CFJ categorically rejects these oppressive measures, calls for their immediate cessation, and demands that Azab and other human rights defenders receive the necessary protection. The committee underscores the importance of fostering a safe and supportive environment that enables journalists and human rights advocates to exercise their basic rights freely and securely. CFJ also urges Egyptian authorities to adhere to laws and the constitution, which guarantee these rights.
