The United Nations Working Group (UNWGAD) on Arbitrary Detention has this week ruled that the British-Egyptian writer Alaa Abd el-Fattah is being arbitrarily detained in Egypt in violation of international law. 

In a detailed 15-page opinion, the panel of independent UN experts found that Alaa’s continued detention is unlawful on multiple grounds. These include a lack of arrest warrant, violations of Alaa’s right to free expression and a fair trial and the discriminatory nature of the detention based on his political views. In November 2023, following the submission on Alaa’s case by his lawyer, FairSquare joined 33 other human rights organisations in writing to the UNWGAD to consider and announce their opinion at the earliest opportunity.

This crucial ruling comes amid growing pressure on the UK government to do more to secure Alaa’s release. Last week, over 100 parliamentarians and 32 human rights organisations wrote to the Prime Minister urging decisive action. On 22 May, Keir Starmer raised Alaa’s case directly with the Egyptian President. Laila Soueif, Alaa’s mother, remains on a full hunger strike in protest against her son’s ongoing imprisonment. 

James Lynch, FairSquare’s co-director, commented following the ruling: 

“This UN ruling marks a pivotal moment for Alaa and his family. It has clear legal implications for the Egyptian government, who must immediately release Alaa without delay. It also underscores the urgent need for the British government to deploy all tools at its disposal to secure his freedom, particularly with the immediate risks to the health of Laila Soueif and Alaa himself.”