Strength & Solidarity 47. Gaza: Is the global human rights system at risk?
Nov 15, 2024
Hossam Bagat, Executive Director of the Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights, and Nabil Rajab, a foundational figure in the Bahraini human rights movement, discuss the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where thousands have perished amid ongoing conflict. They explore global responses and citizens' protests, alongside Egypt's complex role in the situation. The conversation delves into challenges facing human rights advocates due to geopolitical tensions and debates whether to reform or dismantle the global human rights system, highlighting the urgent need for innovative approaches.
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Scale Of Human Cost And US Support
- The Watson Institute and UN reports quantify massive Palestinian deaths from direct violence and indirect causes like starvation and lack of medical care.
- The US supplied over $22.7 billion to support Israel and related operations by Sept 30, 2024, shaping the conflict's dynamics.
Egyptian Protesters Detained Over Gaza
- Hossam describes Egyptian repression of protests and detention of activists who challenged Egypt's border policy with Gaza.
- Many protestors remain in pretrial detention charged under terrorism laws and never tried.
Economic Levers Shape Policy
- Egypt's alignment with US and IMF interests explains its restrictive border policy and reluctance to challenge Israel.
- Economic dependence and annual US military aid shape Egypt's constrained foreign policy choices.