FM reviews Egypt's human rights record in UN, highlights Palestinian humanitarian crisis due to Israeli war

Egypt Today

24-02-2025

CAIRO – 24 February 2025: Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Emigration, Badr Abdelatty, delivered Egypt's statement in a recorded speech before the high-level segment of the 58th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, held in Geneva on Monday.
In his address, Abdelatty noted that this session of the Human Rights Council is being held under exceptional circumstances, due to the recent humanitarian crises witnessed around the world. He emphasized the need for the Council to play a vital role in alleviating the suffering of the Palestinian people, particularly in light of the unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe currently facing the residents of the Gaza Strip.
Abdelatty reaffirmed Egypt's rejection of the displacement of the Palestinian people, highlighting ongoing efforts to consolidate the ceasefire agreement and implement its three stages. He also stressed the importance of ensuring the delivery of humanitarian aid and early recovery support to the Gaza Strip, while preparing a comprehensive plan to rebuild the area without displacing the Palestinian population. In this context, he praised the pivotal role of humanitarian organizations, especially UNRWA, whose work remains indispensable.
The Minister also outlined Egypt's national efforts to improve human rights, following directives from President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. He explained that the Egyptian state has intensified efforts to implement the National Strategy for Human Rights, taking significant steps to enhance the human rights system. Notable measures include activating the Presidential Pardon Committee, launching a national dialogue, and introducing new legislation, such as the draft Criminal Procedures Law. In addition, Egypt continues to support projects aimed at enhancing economic, social, and cultural rights, along with initiatives to improve the rights of women, youth, children, the elderly, and people with disabilities.
Abdelatty further emphasized Egypt's commitment to cooperating with the Human Rights Council and its mechanisms through respectful dialogue that considers diverse circumstances and challenges. He also noted that this cooperation was evident in Egypt's submission of its fourth report to the Universal Periodic Review mechanism, which was discussed before the Council during its session on January 28, 2025.