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Egypt’s crackdown on journalists escalates
EGYPT'S relentless crackdown on journalists has taken a dark turn, with 81 journalists added to the government's so-called "terrorism watch list" – meaning that they are likely to be detained if they displease the government or security services. This move raises concerns about their safety so severe that they are effectively forced into exile.
US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis meets with Egypt's President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi at the Pentagon on 3 April 2017. We have questions.
The Egyptian authorities have intensified their suppression of press freedom by targeting journalists who challenge the government's narrative. Eighty-one journalists have been targeted, including four Al Jazeera journalists who are now in exile. Journalists including Bahaa Eldin Ibrahim and Rabie al-Sheikh have been in prison for years, supposedly awaiting trial for terrorism offences.
Journalists in exile are therefore prevented from visiting their families back home, for fear of being arrested on false charges. Such actions undermine press freedom and endanger journalists' essential role in informing the public and upholding democracy.
Al Jazeera's head of journalists protection calls for support
Dr Yasir Gashi, head of Journalists Protection at Al Jazeera, calls upon human rights organizations and press freedom advocates to support Bahaa Eldin Ibrahim, Rabie al-Sheikh and other imprisoned journalists in Egypt. Al Jazeera emphasizes the importance of solidarity with these brave individuals and demands their immediate release from unjust imprisonment they face grave human rights violations. Gashi adds: "The international community is urged to demand their immediate release."
The safety and well-being of journalists imprisoned in Egypt have become an escalating concern – as they face ongoing violations of their rights. Enforced disappearances and torture are just some of the horrifying experiences endured by these journalists, highlighting the deteriorating state of human rights in general in Egypt.
The Egyptian government's systematic targeting of critical journalists was underscored by Al Jazeera's journalist protection department reporting that four of its own journalists also face exile. The release of the "terrorism watch list" highlights the urgency of the situation.
Gashi says: "human rights organisations, media outlets, and individuals passionate about press freedom must unite to pressure authorities to release all imprisoned journalists immediately." Egypt's crackdown on journalists, exemplified by including 81 journalists on a terror list, flagrantly violates press freedom and human rights.
See a motion passed at the May 2023 London Freelance Branch meeting