Egypt approves accession to African disability rights protocol

Updated 9/25/2024 2:50:00 PM

Arab Finance: The Egyptian Cabinet has approved a draft presidential decree for Egypt’s accession to the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights, focusing on the rights of persons with disabilities, as per a statement.

This decision underscores Egypt’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its regional position within Africa and continue its engagement with African mechanisms focused on human rights.

It also aligns with Egypt's candidacy for the Human Rights Council for the 2026-2028 term.

The protocol aims to protect and promote the rights and dignity of people with disabilities across Africa, urging member states to incorporate these rights into their national policies and development agendas.

Additionally, the Cabinet approved another critical draft decree related to Egypt's participation in the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) capital increase.

Egypt subscribed to 414 shares in the EBRD’s capital, following a decision by the bank’s Board of Governors during its May 2023 meeting in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

This step follows Egypt's prior involvement in capital increases for other financial organizations, including the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the International Development Association (IDA).

The move aims to further Egypt's role in supporting initiatives within the EBRD’s operational countries, which align with Egypt's strategic goals for economic development.

In another development, the cabinet approved a draft decision from Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly regarding the establishment of the Supreme Council for Social Consultation in the field of labor.

This new body is set to foster collaboration and dialogue between the three key parties in labor relations: the government, employers, and workers.

Headed by the Minister of Labor, the council’s formation includes representatives from multiple ministries, such as industry, planning, economic development, and social solidarity, along with representatives from employers' organizations, labor unions, and stakeholders with economic and labor expertise.

The council also ensures the representation of women and marginalized groups, such as persons with disabilities and irregular workers.

The council’s mandate includes formulating national policies on social dialogue and labor relations, reviewing draft labor laws, and analyzing gaps in international and regional labor agreements.

It will also focus on developing solutions to prevent labor disputes, particularly during economic crises that could lead to the closure of projects.

To ensure its accessibility and transparency, the council will launch an official website or interactive platform to publish its decisions, recommendations, and activities, maintaining communication with its members and stakeholders across various governorates.