The Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Working Group of the United Nations announced that it is set to review and examine Egypt’s human rights record on January 28, as part of the comprehensive periodic review organized within the current session, which spans from January 20 to 31.
Egypt has previously undergone three reviews in February 2010, November 2014, and November 2019.
The review of Egypt is based on three primary sources: the national report prepared by the Egyptian authorities, reports from human rights experts and specialized UN bodies, and information submitted by stakeholders, such as non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and national human rights institutions. This comprehensive approach aims to assess Egypt’s implementation of previous recommendations and highlight developments in the field of human rights.
The Egyptian delegation is led by Ambassador Badr Abdel Aty, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Migration, and Egyptians Abroad, and Chairperson of the Supreme Permanent Committee for Human Rights. Representatives from Algeria, Bulgaria, and Kuwait serve as the rapporteurs (“troika”) for Egypt’s review, facilitating discussions and preparing the final report. Representatives from all UN member states will participate in the open dialogue, fostering the exchange of expertise and best practices.
This review represents a vital opportunity to discuss the dire state of human rights in Egypt amidst international stagnation regarding systematic inhumane practices in the country. It also provides a platform to assess the extent of the Egyptian authorities’ compliance with the international and UN treaties and conventions they have ratified.