The Right to Live Movement (El-Hak Fe El-Hayah) launched a Facebook page calling ‎for a second peaceful vigil in front of the Ministry of Justice on 15 September to ‎demand the right to divorce and remarry for Egyptian orthodox Christians.‎

The first vigil, which was also organised by the Right to Live Movement, took place on 7 ‎July at the same location.‎

Three demands were named on the Facebook page:‎

Those who are already divorced to be entitled to remarry through a notary in the registry ‎office without acquiring a permit from the Church. This, in effect, would mean that Copts would no longer be governed by a different marital law than Muslims, except when it comes to polygamy.‎

The right of a couple to divorce through a notary if both parties agree.

The consistent application of the 1938 regulations by courts without having to present ‎a certificate from the Church.

“The movement would like to bring to attention the fact that these demands do not by ‎any means cause pressure against the Church or Christian dogma. These demands are ‎simply a legal way out for those whose lives experience irreconcilable differences,” the ‎statement reads.‎

“After the 7 July protest, another group who have suffered under the restrictions ‎governing the Copts’ personal status appealed to the Church to be given the right to a ‎normal life and the ability to have a family after the failure they faced in their first ‎marriages. They demonstrated in front of the Cathedral in order to be heard. The result ‎was that they were beaten and subjected to what became known as the Battle of the ‎Dog.”‎

“Until the publishing of this statement our demands are being ignored by the bodies ‎concerned and we are being viewed as sinners to be punished by deprivation from the ‎basic human right of having a normal life and family, which is enshrined in Egypt’s ‎constitution.”‎

“Pope Shenouda had repeatedly said in his sermons that whoever wanted to divorce and ‎remarry outside the Church was free to do so. Accordingly, we refuse to burden the ‎Church with our demands. But, so far, the state hasn’t provided a civil, legal way out for ‎those who want to divorce and remarry.”‎