Religious oppression in Egypt is on the rise, even as the government makes insincere gestures towards tolerance. The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) included Egypt on its Special Watch List in its 2026 report, highlighting severe violations against Coptic Christians and problematic blasphemy laws rooted in Article 98(f) of the criminal code. Additionally, both the Ahmadiyya movement and the Bahá’í community are facing intensified repression, as they are denied essential rights such as identity documents and burial privileges. With the European Union being Egypt’s largest trading partner, proponents are urging better protection for these minority groups, emphasizing that safeguarding religious freedoms is not just a moral obligation but also in Egypt’s best interest.
Current State of Religious Freedom
The landscape for religious freedom in Egypt is increasingly dangerous for minorities. The USCIRF’s findings for 2026 indicate that conditions for religious expression are “poor.” Various religious groups encounter systemic repression, discriminatory laws, and violence from extremist factions. Coptic Christians, who represent about ten percent of the Egyptian population, are often targets of violence, with their places of worship and personal property attacked regularly. Local authorities frequently fail to take action against these atrocities, exacerbating the climate of fear.
Persecution of Religious Groups
Coptic Christians are not alone in their struggles. The government’s blasphemy laws, specifically Article 98(f), are weaponized to intimidate not only Copts but also other religious minorities. These laws criminalize any act perceived as insulting towards “heavenly religions,” further stifling free expression. Furthermore, the Ahmadiyya Muslim sect has been labeled a “threat to Islam” by the Muslim Brotherhood. Efforts to promote Sunni orthodoxy have resulted in the closure of Ahmadiyya media outlets, while its adherents face arrest and mistreatment.
The Bahá’í community in Egypt faces particularly acute challenges. Officially unrecognized, they are denied legal status and thus face issues in marriage, civil identification, and burial rights. Fatwas issued by Al-Azhar, religious authority in Egypt, have made it nearly impossible for Bahá’ís to access public burial grounds. They are compelled to utilize an overcrowded, historic cemetery in Cairo, where space is severely limited.
International Response and Moral Obligations
In response to the ongoing situation, 115 European parliamentarians united in a statement calling upon Egypt to eliminate religious discrimination and ensure that the rights of Bahá’ís, as well as other religious minorities, are upheld. This joint statement highlights concerns raised by the United Nations regarding identification registration, freedom from harassment, and overall community rights.
As Egypt pursues a free-trade agreement with the EU, President Sisi’s regime has attempted to implement measures that portray a commitment to religious tolerance. However, the European Union, while providing substantial support to Egypt, must also prioritize human rights. Balancing these factors will be a complex challenge, as securing religious freedom is fundamentally a moral issue. Addressing these human rights violations would not only enhance Egypt’s international standing but also lead to more equitable governance, ultimately benefiting all citizens.
The situation for religious minorities in Egypt remains dire, and increased international pressure is crucial for fostering any meaningful progress. The ethical obligation to uphold fundamental rights transcends mere political strategy, demanding immediate attention and action.