Egypt Intensifies Crackdown on Online Creators, Citing Morality Laws: HRW

Egypt Intensifies Crackdown on Online Creators, Citing Morality Laws: HRW
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Egyptian authorities have escalated a campaign of arrests and prosecutions targeting social media content creators, according to a report released by Human Rights Watch (SRW). Since late July 2025, at least 37 individuals—primarily women and including one child—have been arrested or prosecuted for posting videos online, often on TikTok, that authorities claim violate “public morals” and “family values.”

The charges, based on Article 25 of Egypt’s 2018 Cybercrime Law and vague penal code provisions, include accusations of “undermining societal principles,” “public indecency,” and “money laundering.” Convictions can result in prison sentences of up to three years and substantial fines.

Among those detained are dancers, influencers, and comedians, with many accused of publishing “indecent” content. The campaign has been accompanied by a coordinated media effort and public complaints by pro-government lawyers. Lawmakers have also suggested a possible ban on TikTok if it fails to comply with “societal values.”

Human Rights Watch criticized the campaign as a violation of fundamental rights, including freedom of expression and nondiscrimination. It called on Egyptian authorities to release those detained, drop the charges, and reform laws used to restrict online speech.