Carter Center Calls for Release of Egyptian Human Rights Defenders

Contact: Deanna.Congileo@cartercenter.org

ATLANTA – The Carter Center and former U.S. President Jimmy Carter urge the Government of Egypt to dismiss all charges against renowned journalist and human rights defender Hossam Bahgat. "Hossam has devoted his life and work to advancing human rights for all Egyptians," said President Carter. "His dedication to his nation should be a source of great pride, not cause for retribution."

The Carter Center has observed an increasing pattern of retribution against those who exercise their rights to organize, to protest, and to shed light on policies that violate fundamental rights enshrined in Egypt's constitution and its international commitments. Many Egyptian activists have been arrested and tried under overly broad laws that punish actions protected under international human rights law. In addition to releasing Bahgat unconditionally, the Center urges the Government of Egypt to release April 6 movement leader Ahmed Maher, Mada Foundation Director Hisham Gaffar, and all those who have been treated as criminals for speaking, writing, and working peacefully to advocate human rights.

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A not -for-profit, nongovernmental organization, The Carter Center has helped to improve life for people in over 80 countries by resolving conflicts; advancing democracy, human rights, and economic opportunity; preventing diseases; and improving mental health care.  The Carter Center was founded in 1982 by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, in partnership with Emory University, to advance peace and health worldwide .