Khattab was addressing the 79th Ordinary Session of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights in Gambia.

She noted that Egypt's 2014 constitution dedicated an entire section to human rights, ensuring legislative harmony with international human rights agreements.

The ambassador also highlighted the NCHR’s participation in the 79th session as a testament to Egypt's commitment to enhancing and protecting human rights locally and regionally.

Khattab underscored Egypt's dedication to empowering women, with 44.5 percent of the NCHR members being women. She emphasized the importance of civil society organizations' involvement in human rights discourse.

The ambassador also addressed several critical issues, including female genital mutilation (FGM), which she described as a "crime and a blatant violation of human dignity."

She spoke about her role in coordinating a societal movement against FGM with various partners, including non-governmental organizations, and highlighted Egypt's legislative efforts to strengthen penalties.

Furthermore, Khattab expressed deep concern about the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, labelling it as "a shame on humanity."

She reaffirmed Egypt's steadfast support for the Palestinian people's right to self-determination. Khattab outlined Egypt's efforts, including hosting displaced Palestinians, providing humanitarian assistance, and negotiating the release of hostages.

Moreover, Khattab reiterated Egypt's support for South Africa's stance on holding human rights violators accountable, joining South Africa's case against Israel in the International Court of Justice.

She called on African countries to recognize the State of Palestine established by UN General Assembly Resolution 181 (1948) and highlighted Egypt's support for Sudan through refugee reception and substantial humanitarian aid.

Khattab renewed Egypt's call for international action to protect civilians in Gaza and end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, urging the international community to fulfil its responsibility to protect human rights and ensure accountability for violations.

She praised Egypt's role in regional cooperation on human rights issues and its participation in initiatives and commitment to sharing best practices with other African countries.

In this context, Khattab acknowledged the challenges facing the human rights movement in the Arab and African regions, especially amid ongoing conflicts and political instability. She stressed the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation to enhance human rights in the region.

The session's president and vice president commended Egypt's speech, appreciating Egypt's efforts and the NCHR’s role in consolidating human rights in the country.

Taking place from 14 May to 3 June, the 79th Ordinary Session of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights is being held in hybrid format, with only members of the Commission and staff of its Secretariat attending physically while all other participants attending the session online.