Press Release
The Hague, 10 July, 2013
Egypt: Women and Revolution
‘This is a people’s revolution, and not a crisis or coup’
Egypt needs a new constitution that will realise the principles of the revolution, writes Egyptian author and women’s advocate Nawal El Saadawi
Gender Concerns International is observing the historic change of Egypt’s government with focus on the inclusion of women in political decision-making in the transition. Director Sabra Bano has recently been in direct contact with major women’s organisations, civil society groups and activists regarding women’s rights in Egypt during this crucial period and the long-term future.
Ms. Bano met with Nawal El Saadawi on July 9 th to share outlooks and opinions about changes that affect women’s human rights in Egypt. Ms. Bano said, “It was a pleasure to meet Nawal again and discuss gender concerns in Egypt. Gender Concerns International supported her campaign when she was the first woman candidate for president of her country in 2005 against Hosni Mubarak. Nawal is a source of inspiration not only to Egyptian women, but to others around the world who value justice and fairness.”
Egyptian-born Nawal El Saadawi, 81, is recognised internationally as an author, women’s rights advocate, physician and psychiatrist. She is visiting The Hague and Brussels this week to attend events on Egypt – co-organised by Gender Concerns International – at various institutions and organisations.
Ms. El Saadawi has been closely watching the revolution in her country, the revolution last year, and other governmental, societal and religious movements that have shaped the situation of women in Egypt over the last decades.
Ms. El Saadawi affirmed in the title of an essay on July 5th “this is a people’s revolution, and not a crisis or coup.” She added, “The will of the people is more powerful than military, police, religious or economic weapons. Here is the lesson of human history. There is no principle higher than truth and sincerity in the quest for freedom, justice and dignity.”
An unfaltering activism has made Ms. El Saadawi an ambassador of the common people of Egypt and a strong advocate for women’s human rights. She further wrote in her essay, “The Muslim Brothers’ rule tried to divide the people into believers and heretics, but it failed. We need a new constitution that will realize the principles of the revolution: equality for all without distinction of sex, religion or class...This is a historical revolution that will continue until all of its goals are realized.”
Sabra Bano said, “We look forward to further interaction with our network of women’s organisations and with Nawal to help monitor and raise awareness about changes in Egypt. Women have demonstrated time and again how they can be catalysts for positive change in situations like Egypt is now facing.”
For further details please contact:
Gender Concerns International, Raamweg 21-22 2596 HL, The Hague,
the Netherlands
E: info@genderconcerns.org P: +31 (0) 74445082
W: www.genderconcerns.org