Shocked, Shocked: Egypt Cracking Down On Climate Activists In Run-Up To COP 27
Human Rights Watch said in a report based on interviews with more than a dozen academics, scientists and activists that government restrictions amount to a violation of basic human rights and throw into question the Egyptian government’s ability to meet basic climate commitments. Egypt’s government has engaged in a widespread crackdown on dissent in recent years that has detained thousands, many without trial, according to rights groups. Under President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi, Egypt has also intimidated activists and new laws have practically barred many civil society organizations from operating.
“The world needs more climate activism, not less, and there can be no such effective activism when the government treats civic groups as a threat, not an asset,” said Richard Pearshouse, environment director at Human Rights Watch, in the report. “The UN Framework Convention member states and the Secretariat should press the Egyptian government to make sure environmental groups feel it is safe to engage in and beyond the Cop.”
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All of those interviewed for the report spoke on the condition of anonymity for fear of reprisal, the group said, and six declined to speak at all. Those who spoke described harassment by authorities, obstruction, and a “general atmosphere of fear” in the country and said they were wary of voicing opinions that could be seen as critical even during the UN-led conference.
Some described a partial opening in government policy for environmental campaigns in the run-up to the summit, but only for initiatives deemed to be compatible with authorities’ aims, like trash collection. They said speaking up about the country’s use of coal, and mega-infrastructure projects such as the construction of a new administrative capital, are deemed too risky of issues to tackle.
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https://www.climatechangenews.com/2022/09/12/egypt-is-stifling-climate-activism-ahead-of-cop27-human-rights-group-reports/
