Overview

• The UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention ruled that Egyptian authorities have held Alaa Abd el-Fattah unlawfully under international law, citing lack of warrant, no fair trial, suppression of free expression and discriminatory treatment.
• The panel demanded Egypt release Abd el-Fattah without delay and provide him with enforceable compensation and reparations in line with its international obligations.
• Laila Soueif began her hunger strike in September 2024 and has now reached day 241 of protesting her son’s continued detention outside the Prime Minister’s residence.
• Prime Minister Keir Starmer has renewed diplomatic appeals to President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and is facing calls to take Egypt to the International Court of Justice for breaching the Vienna Convention.
• The case has intensified scrutiny of Egypt’s human rights record and prompted experts to urge the UK government to update its travel advice over risks of arbitrary detention.