July 25, 2026
The Arab Foundation for the Support of Civil Society and Human Rights expresses its deep concern over the recent verdict issued by the Alexandria Economic Court against Engineer Tamer Sherine Shawky, sentencing him to three years’ imprisonment on multiple charges, including spreading false news and insulting a public official. The charges stem from his exercise of the right to freedom of opinion and expression through views he posted on social media.
The Foundation believes that the criminal prosecution of individuals solely for expressing their opinions or engaging in peaceful criticism constitutes a clear violation of the fundamental rights and freedoms guaranteed by the Egyptian Constitution. It also runs contrary to Egypt’s international obligations, particularly under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which guarantees the right to freedom of opinion and expression and permits restrictions on this right only under narrowly defined circumstances that meet the principles of necessity and proportionality.
The use of custodial sentences in cases involving publication and peaceful expression contributes to the shrinking of civic space and fosters an atmosphere of fear and self-censorship. Such practices undermine public participation and restrict the free exchange of information and ideas.
The Foundation reiterates that freedom of opinion and expression is not a crime. Differences of opinion or peaceful criticism of public policies should never serve as grounds for criminal prosecution or imprisonment.
The Arab Foundation calls on the Egyptian authorities to
End the use of legal provisions to criminalize the peaceful exercise of freedom of expression, whether on social media or through any other platform.
Respect Egypt’s constitutional and international obligations to protect the right to freedom of opinion and expression.
Review legislation that imposes custodial penalties for publication- and expression-related offenses, bringing it into conformity with international human rights standards.
Ensure that no individual is subjected to prosecution or punishment for peacefully exercising their right to express their opinions.
