Civil society groups say Egypt's draft law falls short of real change
Egypt’s parliament approved changes to a controversial law regulating the work of civil society organizations, but many of the groups are unimpressed and say the draft bill needs more work.
CAIRO — Many human rights and relief groups are taking aim at "reforms" the Egyptian parliament approved recently in a draft bill regarding civil society organizations (CSOs) — changes they say are as bad as existing restrictions. Activists are recommending that President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi send the draft back for further amendment.
Lawmakers approved the changes July 15. The president has 30 days from that date to review the draft. Unless he rejects it, the draft law will take effect.
