Egypt has secured a seat on the United Nations Human Rights Council for the third time, a move hailed by the Foreign Ministry as a “new victory” for the state. But rights observers say the uncontested and diplomatically prearranged win must now be followed by measurable improvements at home.
The Foreign Ministry described Egypt's election, with 173 votes securing one of four African seats for the 2026–2028 term, as evidence of international support. In its official statement, the ministry said the result reflected “confidence in Egypt’s active role in human rights” and praised what it called Cairo’s “pivotal efforts in regional peace and stability.”
But critics pointed out that the outcome was effectively guaranteed. Hossam Bahgat, executive director of the Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights, told Al Manassa that the African Union submitted a closed slate with as many candidates as seats, effectively ensuring a win without contest.
“This is a diplomatic mechanism that predetermines the outcome,” Bahgat said. He emphasized that council membership does not imply endorsement of a country’s rights record. “Several council members have dismal rights records. The seat does not confer immunity from criticism or accountability.”
The Foreign Ministry linked the win to what it framed as recent progress, including Egypt’s National Human Rights Strategy, judicial reforms, and efforts to empower women and youth. But Bahgat called for clear, voluntary commitments during Egypt’s term.
“Membership should be an opportunity to show real seriousness on rights,” he said. “That requires commitments that are concrete, specific, and measurable—not vague language like we saw in past initiatives.”
Human rights lawyer and National Dialogue member Negad El-Borai agreed the win was noteworthy, but said it comes with “serious obligations.”
In a Facebook post, El-Borai called on the government to ease restrictions on local rights organizations, end impunity for abusers, and resolve the issue of prolonged pretrial detention. He also urged authorities to delay passing Egypt’s new criminal procedure law until proper consultation takes place.
“This law, as drafted, would gut the right to a defense and undermine citizens’ basic rights,” he said.
El-Borai urged the government to rethink its human rights policies and added that civil society is ready to help.
“This seat is a chance to start fresh. Let’s be up to the responsibility,” he wrote.
In its closing statement, Egypt’s Foreign Ministry said it would work to develop the council’s mechanisms “in a way that respects national contexts and cultural specificities.”
The UN Human Rights Council is composed of 47 member states, elected by the UN General Assembly. Members can vote on resolutions, lead investigations, propose special sessions, and influence the appointment of UN rights experts. Votes are cast by secret ballot and often reflect political alliances rather than rights records.
