Civil society in Egypt is governed by the provisions of the Law on Non-Governmental Societies and Organizations (No. 84 of 2002), available in English and Arabic, and the Executive Statute on Law 84 of 2002 (Ministry of Insurance and Social Affairs Decree No. 178 of 2002), which implements and clarifies the provisions of the parliamentary law. Despite the restrictive nature of its civil society laws, Egypt has a large and vibrant civil society sector.
The regulator for associations, foundations and unions is the Ministry of Social Solidarity, and for Not for Profit companies the Ministry of Industry and Trade.
Registration is obligatory; but informal (unregistered) associations are prohibited. The grounds for denial of registration are vague, inviting the exercise of excessive government discretion. Requirements relating to the General Assembly meetings require the Government to be notified in advance and for a Ministry representative to be present. Grounds for dissolution are also unclear, inviting the exercise of excessive government discretion. Sanctions for legal violations include imprisonment.
Research from the International Center for Not-for-Profit Law in 2007 indicates there are 24,500 registered NGOs operating in Egypt.
Recent events in Egypt, which concluded in the resignation of President Mubarak and the assumption of authority by the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces, will undoubtedly bring about changes in both the regulation of NGOs and in the activities and role of civil society more generally. Civil society organisations, including established and nascent political parties, have been at the forefront of the change process in Egypt.
The International Programme has not worked explicitly with the Egyptian regulator on matters of NGO regulation, but has held discussions with the League of Arab States (Arab League) in preparation for a regional conference on best practice.
For more information about our work in Egypt, please contact Robin MacGregor at robin.macgregor@charitycommission.gsi.gov.uk