Executive regulations of Egypt’s new NGOs Act expected soon
CABINET WATCH- The final executive regulations of the new NGOs Act should be issued soon after the Madbouly Cabinet gave the regs preliminary approval during yesterday’s meeting. They have been with cabinet for a final review since February, after having previously expected to be released at the end of 2019.
Background on the law: The bill, which was ratified in August of last year, replaces the controversial Law No. 70 of 2017 that generated considerable criticism both in Egypt and overseas. It received both praise and criticism after it passed the House last year, with supporters applauding the removal of jail sentences for funding-related violations and detractors saying that it does not offer enough protections for civil society. Need a refresher on the key points of law? We’ve got you covered.
Also approved during yesterday’s meeting:
- An initiative from Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development to grant Egypt a one-year moratorium on debt repayments from 7 July 2020 to 30 June 2021;
- A decision to consolidate the public treasury and Egypt Mint into a unified entity;
- Setting up a state-owned company based in the Suez Canal Economic Zone to repair and upgrade railway cars.