The Egyptian Law
Navigating the legal processes is complex for those seeking justice for such
crimes. Despite the Egyptian law’s penalties for those misusing information
technology to compromise personal data, punishing blackmailers remains
challenging. These penalties include imprisonment for a duration ranging from
two to 몭ve years, along with a 몭ne ranging from 100,000 to 300,000 pounds for
individuals found guilty of using communications to frame someone as publicly
immoral or to damage their “reputation and honor.”
Furthermore, there is a near consensus that a uni몭ed law is indispensable in
combating violence against women. Seven feminist organizations collaborated
on formulating such a law, championed by MP Nashwa al-Deeb. She garnered
support from over 60 parliamentarians, and the proposed legislation is
anticipated to be deliberated in the Egyptian House of Representatives.
Once approved, the proposed law will address various de몭ciencies resulting
from the fragmentation of current legislation on violence. It aims to address
critical needs by incorporating community protection mechanisms, recognizing
the pivotal role of relevant committees in raising awareness, providing
rehabilitation for victims and their families, and establishing shelters for those
facing threats. The legislation also endeavors to criminalize domestic violence
and marital rape while bolstering procedures that not only encourage reporting
but also safeguard individuals and their families.
Informal Initiatives to Contain Reality
Numerous feminist organizations in Egypt are actively engaged in o몭ering legal,
technical, and psychological support to women facing cybercrimes, recognizing
online violence as a pervasive threat to their psychological and physical wellbeing.
In an interview with SMEX, lawyer Hala Douma, coordinator of the support
o몭ces at the New Woman Foundation, disclosed that approximately 90% of
support requests are from women who have experienced online violence. The
foundation also handles cases of blackmail separately, extending legal,
psychological, and technical assistance to the victims.
Similarly, the Egyptian Women Lawyers’ Foundation for Women’s Rights plays a
crucial role in supporting women who have been blackmailed online. Heba Adel,