Human Rights Culture Central to Egypt’s National Strategy, Says Tarek Radwan

اجتماع لجنة حقوق الإنسان بمجلس النواب.

The Human Rights Committee of the Egyptian Parliament, led by MP Tarek Radwan, convened a meeting with Ambassador Alaa Youssef, head of the State Information Service. The session was attended by committee members including Yasser El-Hadibi, Mohamed Farid, and Naila Gabr, among others. The meeting aimed to review the efforts of the State Information Service in promoting human rights culture and enhancing societal awareness of citizenship, equality, and rights as part of the National Human Rights Strategy.

During the meeting, Ambassador Youssef provided a comprehensive presentation on the role of the agency in fostering public awareness of human rights and civil liberties. He emphasized that the agency operates from a comprehensive national vision that considers building informed societal awareness as a fundamental pillar for protecting rights and freedoms while safeguarding national achievements. This aligns with directives from President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi regarding the development of Egyptian citizens and strengthening national consciousness.

The committee heard detailed explanations about various programs and activities implemented by the agency through local media centers across different governorates. These initiatives aim to translate human rights concepts into community practices that promote values of citizenship, acceptance of others, and national cohesion while also aligning with major presidential initiatives such as “Decent Life” and “Bidaya.”.

Ambassador Youssef also highlighted the agency’s website as an informative platform that enables citizens and researchers to access official documents related to human rights. This includes showcasing legislative developments and legal reforms that have occurred in Egypt over recent years.

The ambassador reviewed research and documentation efforts by the agency through its peer-reviewed scientific journal “Studies in Human Rights.” Additionally, texts of the National Human Rights Strategy are available in both Arabic and English on digital platforms operated by the agency, which contributes to expanding societal knowledge about its objectives and implementation mechanisms.

The committee discussed the role of the Foreign Correspondents’ Press Center under the State Information Service in engaging with international media outlets. The center provides verified information on various Egyptian issues and monitors published content regarding human rights conditions in Egypt, addressing any inaccuracies based on official data.

Efforts to highlight achievements related to religious freedoms, establish principles of citizenship, empower women politically, economically, and socially were also discussed during the meeting. The committee addressed national efforts aimed at combating violence against women while promoting their participation across various public life sectors.

A broad dialogue ensued between committee members and Ambassador Youssef. MPs raised several questions regarding how the agency disseminates human rights culture, counters misinformation, and enhances communication with international media and public opinion. The ambassador provided thorough responses detailing the agency’s vision and future plans for improving awareness tools and media communication strategies.

In conclusion, MP Tarek Radwan affirmed that promoting human rights culture and strengthening societal awareness are key components in executing Egypt’s National Human Rights Strategy. He praised the State Information Service’s role in this area for providing accurate information and enhancing communication with both local and international public opinion. Committee members expressed their appreciation for Ambassador Youssef’s insights which reflected his diplomatic and media expertise while supporting Egypt’s efforts to uphold values of citizenship, rights, and freedoms.