Some of the suggested articles in Egypt’s draft constitution raise concerns as they threaten the rights of women and children, said Heba Morayef, representative of Human Rights Watch (HRW) in Cairo.

Morayef told Sawa Radio that the article on women’s rights in light of Sharia (Islamic law) is worrisome as it conflicts with the Egyptian constitution and Egypt’s commitment to non-discrimination in political and economic rights.

She explained that while the initial article prohibited “slavery and women and children trafficking”, the new one prohibits “slavery and violations of women and children’s rights” - she considered the new phrasing “too general” as it does not clearly state the prohibition of the international crime of women and children trafficking.

Human Rights Watch had released a report arguing that Egypt’s draft constitution does not offer enough reassurance on women and child rights, freedom of religion or a clear stance against torture.

 “A historic opportunity lays ahead of the constituent assembly to set the necessary foundations to ensure respect for human rights in the new Egypt – however, the current draft fails to live up to these standards in light of vague phrasing and restrictions that jeopardize the essence of many freedoms”, said Nadim Houry, deputy executive director of HRW in the Middle East and North Africa, last week.

Members of the constituent assembly have suggested that a final draft of the constitution may be ready in November for the people to vote on it, but no date has been set yet.