Acknowledging our shortcomings on human rights is a must in Egypt

these allegations, claiming that instances of abuse are rare exceptions to the prevalent norm of upholding human rights, and declaring these organizations to be ignorant of actual conditions on the ground in Egypt.

As this debate takes place, we Egyptians are lost amidst intensive and violent mistreatment and a culture of abuse, wherein influential citizens manipulate marginalized ones; wealthy citizens take advantage of the less fortunate; men, at large, mistreat women; and so on. Lately, to disassociate themselves from any criminal allegations, many powerful, wealthy citizens have resorted to hiring “bodyguards,” who are often willing to engage in illegal acts for which their employers cannot be held responsible.

The state’s argument, that the national stability of our large population necessitates draconian methods of government (occasionally entailing repressive measures), is easily countered by arguing that enforcing the rule of law will create the needed stability. The state’s philosophy of broadening the definition of human rights by claiming that it entails more than individual legal rights — such as the right to education, health and other state services — simply signals to lawbreakers that they may persist in their offences. Moreover, this philosophy overlooks the fact that the state is the entity responsible for addressing all issues equally and comprehensively.

The Egyptian state believes that the issue of human rights is politicized. Unfortunately, I tend to agree that a few nations make use of this flaw — only when needed — to exert pressure on Egypt. However, we should not bother with defending Egypt’s human rights status on issues that conflict with our religious beliefs and moral values. Acknowledging that we have shortcomings in the area of human rights, as in most other areas, is the first step to addressing the problem. To realize true progress in this controversial matter, we must educate Egyptians, inclusive of the ruling authorities, on the best methods for managing our citizens.

QMohammed Nosseir, a liberal politician from Egypt, is a strong advocate of political participation and economic freedom. Twitter: @MohammedNosseir