Rights groups accuse Egypt of targeting exiled human rights activists

A recent report from the Egyptian Human Rights Forum and the Egyptian Front for Human Rights accuses the Sisi government of systematically harassing Egyptians living abroad who have criticized its human rights record, according to Middle East Eye.

The report is based on interviews with 10 human rights defenders who fled Egypt between 2017 and 2020. These activists claim they have faced intimidation from Egyptian authorities, including being added to terrorist watchlists and receiving sentences in absentia. Many allege they have been denied consular assistance, and some have had their citizenship revoked.

Rights groups also accuse Egypt's security forces of closely monitoring these exiled activists, with their families in Egypt being subjected to harassment, random detentions, and questioning.

"The government views the influence of the country's exiled activist community as a serious threat," explained Samar Elhussieny, program director at the Egyptian Human Rights Forum, speaking to Middle East Eye.

Activists report that these tactics have deeply impacted their lives, often leaving them in a state of legal uncertainty and in constant fear of extradition.

Sisi’s government has faced widespread criticism from the U.S. and international human rights organizations since he assumed power through a military coup in 2014. It is estimated that around 60,000 political prisoners are currently detained in Egypt, with many human rights activists forced into exile to escape retaliation.