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Egypt: Copts

Asked by Sir Edward LeighConservativeForeign, Commonwealth and Development OfficeTabled Answered 31 October 2024UIN 10039

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment he has made of the potential implications for his policies of recent reports of violence against Coptic Christians in Egypt.

Answered by Mr Hamish Falconer

The UK will champion freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) for all, including through the UN, G7, in multilateral fora and in bilateral relationships. No one should live in fear because of what they do or do not believe in. The Egyptian Government has stated a firm commitment to protect the rights of Coptic Christians and their freedom of worship. Protections for freedom of religion are enshrined in the constitution. President Sisi has publicly committed in recent years to uphold minority rights and FoRB. I will continue to make clear to the Egyptian authorities the importance we attach to these issues.

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