Egypt: Civil Society Demands Release of Detained Egyptian Dialogue Practitioner

Armed Egyptian security forces raided the offices of Mada Foundation , an NGO working on democratic participation and journalism training. The head of Mada Foundation’s board of directors, Hesham Gaafar, was detained and his lawyers have not been able to see him. Security forces searched his office, taking money and documents from the organization’s safe. They then searched Gaafar’s home, destroying personal property.

In the circumstances of increased polarization in Egypt over the last decade, Gaafar’s focus has been the initiation and support of constructive dialogue projects. He developed programs to build the capacities of democratic participation in Egypt, including supporting and empowering Egyptian women and families.

Sign up now to demand that the basic rights of Hesham Gaafar be respected and that he be released immediately.

Hesham Gaafar is a renowned and respected teacher, journalist, peace practitioner and builder of democratic participation. His contributions to society are ones that should be acknowledged and respected.