Rights Group Highlights Military Control of Fishing Sector

An Egyptian human rights organization, EgyptWide, has reported that military-controlled fishing and aquaculture projects in four northern lakes have worsened poverty and unemployment, contradicting government claims of economic progress. The report highlights that local fishers have been denied access to traditional fishing areas and faced arbitrary arrests, with over 140 detained between March 2020 and July 2024. Instead of reducing poverty, these military-led initiatives have displaced local businesses and increased economic pressures, driving communities towards dangerous migration routes. EgyptWide argues that this reflects a broader trend of military dominance over Egypt’s economy since 2014, marked by a lack of accountability and diminished civilian oversight.

Want More Context? 🔎