In a recent call to Egyptian authorities, Human Rights Watch (HRW) has urged the dismissal of terrorism-related charges against Hossam Bahgat, the executive director of the Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights (EIPR). Bahgat’s confrontation with legal authorities arose following his brief detention and subsequent release on a 20,000 Egyptian pound (approximately US$398) bail. He has been charged with participating in activities of a terrorist group, financing a terrorist group, and disseminating false news. The charges emerged in the wake of Bahgat publishing a report calling for an investigation into alleged abuses at 10th of Ramadan 6 Prison.
Bahgat was summoned for questioning by the Egyptian Supreme State Security Prosecution regarding the report’s sources. The authorities perceive the report as false news compromising national security. The interrogation concluded with Bahgat’s release under conditions, although the investigation remains active. In response, EIPR has publicly denounced these actions. HRW views these proceedings as part of a broader campaign against independent human rights activities in Egypt, as noted by Amr Magdi, a senior researcher at the organization.
This incident is not isolated; it marks the fourth time Egyptian authorities have pursued EIPR members since 2020. Previously, in November 2020, three senior officials of EIPR were detained after engaging with foreign diplomats on Egypt’s human rights status, resulting in their eventual release due to international intervention, including from actress Scarlett Johansson. Despite being released, EIPR continues to face tight government scrutiny through asset freezes and repeated detentions.
The challenges faced by Bahgat trace back over a decade, notably through the notorious ‘NGO foreign funding’ case that led to travel bans on numerous human rights defenders, inhibiting their operational capabilities. Although travel restrictions were briefly eased for Bahgat in 2024, the revival of charges suggests sustained governmental pressure.
Complementing HRW’s position, Amnesty International has previously drawn attention to dire conditions within Egypt’s detention facilities, underscoring the concerns raised by Bahgat and EIPR. The international legal community remains watchful of Egypt’s stance towards human rights organizations, anticipating potential repercussions for civil society’s ability to operate.
For more detailed information, refer to the original report from JURIST.