The Acting Head of UN Women, Lakshmi Puri, called for Egyptian women’s voices to be heard without threat of violence, in statement issued on Tuesday.

"Egypt’s women have been at the heart of the vibrant civil society movement that continues to press for the rights of all Egyptians," said Puri.

She stressed that women's participation in public life and the inclusion of their needs and priorities in any political solution is a prerequisite for inclusive democracy in Egypt.

She added, "UN Women is concerned by reports of the high prevalence of sexual assaults against women in public spaces," urging all parties to take a firm stand and show zero tolerance for all forms of violence against women and girls.

Puri concluded her statement saying that Egypt’s women have the right to fully participate in political dialogue without fear or threat of violence and their voices are essential to a peaceful and prosperous Egypt.