On April 23, Egyptian security forces arrested 18 activists outside of the UN Women’s office in Cairo for peacefully demonstrating solidarity with women in Gaza and Sudan. According to The Egyptian Front for Human Rights, a number of those arrested were physically assaulted, and their phones were taken away. Most of those arrested were released the following day on bail of 5 to 10 pounds, after being accused of joining an illegal group and participating in an illegal gathering. This development highlights Egypt’s repression of civic activism in the country. The World Movement for Democracy urges Egyptian authorities to respect people’s right to freedom of assembly and expression.

Learn more about this development here.