File Photo: The opening of the session of the United Nations Human Rights Council. AFP
In a statement, the country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the result a new diplomatic achievement that reflects the breadth of international support for Egypt’s candidacy.
The 47-member council, which is composed of five regional groups, renews about one-third of its seats each year through a rotation system.
Egypt contested the election as part of the African Group, alongside Mauritius and South Africa.
To win a seat, candidates must obtain an absolute majority of votes from UN member states in a secret ballot and are expected to submit voluntary human rights pledges outlining their commitments and cooperation with UN mechanisms.
Egypt will serve a three-year term beginning 1 January 2026.
This marks Egypt’s third term on the council—two of which have come during President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi’s tenure.
This underscores confidence in Egypt’s active role in advancing human rights globally, the ministry added.
The statement also described the victory as a key pillar in Egypt’s ongoing efforts to promote and protect human rights and fundamental freedoms, highlighting significant progress made in recent years.
These include the launch of the National Human Rights Strategy in 2021, the submission of four consecutive executive reports—most recently delivered to President El-Sisi on 30 September.
The country will also begin preparing a new national strategy following the current one’s completion under El-Sisi’s directives.
Reforms have also extended to the modernization of Egypt’s criminal justice system, the development of rehabilitation and correctional centers, expansion of social protection programs, and empowerment initiatives for women, youth, and people with disabilities.
The ministry noted that Egypt’s election reaffirms international recognition of the country’s achievements in strengthening democracy, the rule of law, and citizenship, as well as its role in fostering regional stability and peace—most recently exemplified by hosting the historic Sharm El-Sheikh Peace Summit on 13 October.
It further expressed gratitude to the countries that supported Egypt’s bid, pledging to contribute actively to the council’s work in a balanced and inclusive manner that respects cultural specificities and national contexts, while advancing economic, social, civil, and political rights.
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