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Egypt - Universal Periodic Review

UPR 34, November 13, 2019
Recommendations by Canada

Background

According to UPR Info, a non-governmental organization (NGO) that tracks the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) process, in the first two cycles of the UPR, Egypt received 492 recommendations, of which 359 were accepted (an acceptance rate of 73%). Canada’s previous recommendations to Egypt related to ensuring due process for detainees; reviewing all laws on public assemblies; and amending its law governing NGO activities.

Although Egypt has undertaken several reforms since its last UPR appearance – notably repealing Law 70/2017 governing NGO activities and replacing it with less restrictive legislation (Law 149/2019) in August 2019 – important challenges remain.

Canada remains concerned by the human rights situation in Egypt. The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and human rights organizations have reported a deterioration of human rights in Egypt and warned against the shrinking space for civil society and the media, reflected by increased reports of repression of those deemed as critical of the government.

Although Egypt’s 2014 constitution protects a number of political and civil rights, significant progress remains to be achieved to ensure their protection. Restrictions on freedom of assembly, association, opinion, and expression are key areas of concern. Egypt recently enacted legislation to regulate online media, as well as the activities of journalists and activists. Human rights groups are concerned by the Egyptian Government’s response to protests in September 2019, reportedly arresting over 4,000 individuals.

Human rights organizations also note that human rights defenders continue to face reprisals for their work, including arrests, travel bans, and asset freezes. Reports from these organizations indicate that intimidation, arbitrary detention, enforced disappearances, and mistreatment of detainees are common. Observers have also expressed concern with mass trials, lack of due process, and the use of the death penalty.

Furthermore, concerns persist regarding ongoing repression and discrimination against the LGBTI community. While homosexuality is not illegal in Egypt, human rights organizations note that LGBTI persons are routinely arrested and charged with crimes of "indecency" and “debauchery.” In custody, LGBTI people are reportedly subject to degrading treatment, such as sexual violence and invasive forensic examinations.

Recommendations

Thank you, Mr. President.

Canada welcomes the steps undertaken by Egypt to enact less restrictive legislation governing the activities of NGOs. However, Canada remains concerned about the broader state of human rights in Egypt.

Canada recommends that Egypt:

1. Ensure that legislation allows for freedom of opinion and expression and freedom of assembly and association, to reflect the protections enshrined in Egypt’s 2014 Constitution and to align with Egypt’s international human rights obligations.
2. Take steps to protect the rights of LGBTI individuals and ensure that they are not subject to discriminatory arrest or prosecution under criminal charges of indecency or debauchery.
3. Take steps to protect human rights defenders and prevent pressure against them, including by lifting travel bans and asset freezes.

As recommended during Egypt’s last UPR in 2014, Canada calls on the Government of Egypt to ensure due process for prisoners, considering that a fair and independent legal system is a fundamental pillar of the rule of law and democracy.