The Republic of Croatia expresses concern over the Cairo Criminal Court’s sentencing 43 international NGO members to jail terms of up to five years, ordering the closure of their offices and seizure of their assets. We believe that this sends a negative message to the Egyptian people, who have unequivocally chosen a democratic system that guarantees the freedom of thought, speech and actions, as well as to the international partners.
In the processes and challenges facing the Egyptian society NGOs play and extremely important role, therefore we expect a legal framework to be secured for their activities in accordance with international standards, and that problems and disagreements be resolved through dialogue not force. Croatia will continue to follow the court proceedings and is willing, in cooperation with the EU partners, to offer assistance in setting up a suitable legal framework.