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Omct individual regions map middle east and north africa 01
CAT status Status under the Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment State Party since 25 June, 1986
Reviewed 2002 Read review

Egypt

At a glance

Egypt has a structural issue with regard to the repression of protesters and dissidents in the country. Law enforcement uses excessive and disproportionate force against them, including enforced disappearance, mass arrests, torture and ill-treatment, and severe probation measures. Human rights defenders and journalists are often arbitrarily arrested and detained for peacefully expressing their opinions. The situation in detention is worrying, with many reports on the widespread use of torture, while the alleged perpetrators are rarely prosecuted. Prolonged solitary confinement and denial of family visits and of adequate medical care contribute to inhumane conditions of detention across the country. The authorities continue to arbitrarily arrest and detain migrants, refugees and asylum seekers, including children. Another issue is the arrest and prosecution of LGBTIQ+ individuals on the basis of their real or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity, who are often subjected to forced anal and sex determination tests, a practice that amounts to torture. The OMCT works to put an end to all forms of harassment, including at judicial level, against human rights defenders and calls for the release of all persons arbitrarily detained.

In recent years, Egyptian authorities have increasingly employed repressive tactics such as prolonged pre-trial detention, enforced disappearance, and judicial harassment to silence all critical voices, including through unfounded investigations for national security related charges.

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