Recent Cases of Religious Persecution

USCIRF Leadership Statements

Egypt’s Systematic Repression of Religious Freedom

Egypt is systematically enforcing laws, policies, and judicial decisions that repress non-Muslim religious life for those who have expressed religious beliefs that deviate from the state’s endorsed interpretation of Islam.

In recent months, Egyptian state security has escalated detentions, particularly against Christians and non-believers for purported violation of Egypt’s blasphemy law. This represents a concerning pattern of state-sponsored religious persecution that violates international human rights standards.

USCIRF’s Recommendations and Documentation

The designation as a Special Watch List country would formally recognize Egypt’s systematic violations and could trigger diplomatic pressure and policy responses from the United States government.

International Legal Obligations

USCIRF emphasizes that Egypt’s actions violate its obligations under international law, including commitments to freedom of religion or belief as recognized in various international human rights instruments. The systematic nature of these violations—targeting Christians, religious converts, Ahmadis, and non-believers—demonstrates a pattern of state-sponsored persecution rather than isolated incidents.

Call to Action

USCIRF is calling on the Trump administration and the State Department to:

The Path Forward

The escalating persecution of religious minorities in Egypt demands immediate attention from the international community and the U.S. government. USCIRF’s renewed call for Egypt’s placement on the Special Watch List reflects the urgency of the situation and the need for concrete action to protect fundamental human rights.

As Commissioner Elsanousi noted, while past efforts to release detained individuals have been commendable, addressing the root cause—the blasphemy law itself—remains essential to creating lasting change and genuine religious freedom in Egypt.