Human Rights Watch Monday reported that the Egyptian government is severely curtailing environmental groups’ ability to carry out independent policy, advocacy and field work essential to protecting the country’s natural environment. The report comes as Egypt prepares to host the 2022 UN climate conference (COP27) in November.

Human Rights Watch conducted interviews with staff members of critical human rights and environmental groups; many said they are wary of publicly engaging at COP27 and fear government reprisal. The concern is heightened because the most significant environmental issues in Egypt are a result of government and military activities. The report also raised issues like restrictions on funding, harassment of environmental groups, challenges registering organisations and research obstacles due to strict permit requirements.

Following an interview with Egypt’s Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry in May, 36 organizations released a statement asking the government to ease its grip on civic space and uphold the rights to freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly to ensure a successful climate summit.