Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2005, published 95th ILC session (2006)

Discrimination (Employment and Occupation) Convention, 1958 (No. 111) - Egypt (Ratification: 1960)

Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention. Equality of opportunity and treatment of men and women. The Committee notes with interest that it is now possible in Egypt for women to assume the post of a judge, which was not the case previously. It notes the Government’s indications that this development has been achieved due to: (i) the role that the National Council for Women plays in raising awareness on gender equality issues; and (ii) the religious authorities clarifying that Islamic law does not prohibit women from taking up judicial posts. The Government states that men and women can now be appointed as judges on an equal basis, consideration being given only to their professional qualifications. The Committee invites the Government to continue to provide information on the measures taken or envisaged to promote equality of opportunity and treatment of men and women in employment and occupation, including the activities carried out by the National Council for Women and other competent bodies, and on any further progress made in this regard.

The Committee is raising other points in a request addressed directly to the Government.