Amnesty International’s European Institutions Office Foreign Policy Advocate, Hussein Baoumi, is calling on EU members of parliament to ensure that the €7.4 billion in aid and loans being given to Egyptian President Abdelfattah al-Sisi is spent in line with the union’s laws. Baoumi highlights the systematic silencing of dissent in Egypt, with individuals being imprisoned for peacefully disagreeing with the government’s economic policies. Despite receiving over €140 billion since 2013, the lives of Egyptians continue to deteriorate as loans and bailouts are needed to sustain the country. Baoumi emphasizes the need for accountability and respect for human rights in Egypt, especially in light of the recent EU funding pledge to the country.
Baoumi stresses the importance of holding the Egyptian government accountable for its repressive actions and calls for reforms, including the immediate release of peaceful detainees, opening civic and political space, and respecting human rights in the lead-up to the 2025 parliamentary elections. Baoumi also highlights the role of the European Parliament in ensuring that EU funds are spent in accordance with EU law and that Egypt implements necessary reforms to address the root causes of economic instability. Failure to do so will result in continued suffering for Egyptians. Baoumi concludes by urging the EU to help Egypt change its course and prioritize human rights and economic prosperity.
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