human rights defender

Mohamed Abo Horeira

Organization affiliation

  • Egyptian Coordination for Rights and Freedoms

HRD's year of birth

1987

HRD's Gender

Man

Type of HRD

  • Lawyer

HRD's thematic area of engagement

  • Civil and political rights

HRD's geographical origin

Urban

Current Status

In prison (sentenced)

HRD's bio and work

Mohamed Abo Horeira is an Egyptian human rights defender and lawyer known for his extensive work in advocating for civil and political rights. He has played a significant role in defending the rights of political detainees and advocating for freedom of expression in Egypt. As a legal expert, Mohamed has provided legal assistance to numerous activists, journalists, and ordinary citizens who have been subjected to arbitrary detention, unfair trials, and other forms of state repression. His commitment to justice and human rights has made him a prominent figure in Egypt's human rights community. However, his activism has also made him a target of state authorities, leading to his arrest and imprisonment. Despite the risks, Mohamed continues to be a vocal advocate for the rule of law and the protection of human rights in Egypt. His work has garnered both national and international recognition, underscoring the importance of legal advocacy in the fight against repression and injustice.

Detained since

Oct 31, 2018

Charge(s)

  • Terrorism

Sentence

The First Circuit of Terrorism Felonies, acting as the Emergency State Security Court based at Badr Criminal Court, under the presidency of Judge Mohamed Saied El Sherbiny, issued a verdict on 5 March 2023, in case number 1552/2018 State Security Supreme, commonly known in the media as the Egyptian Coordination for Rights and Freedoms case, sentencing him to 15 years of rigorous imprisonment.

Geolocation of detention

Country or area of detention

Region of detention

  • Africa: Northern Africa

Location of detention - City/Town

Badr City

Location of detention - Facility

Badr City - Badr 3 Prison

Allegations / reports of ill-treatment

He suffers from severe vision problems and wears prescription glasses, as he can barely see with one eye. He has been denied family visits for years and remains held in solitary confinement, with no contact with other detainees. Even access to medication is prohibited.

Recent case update / evolution

He has experienced a deterioration in his health while in detention, following a hunger strike in protest against what he described as “inhumane” conditions of detention.

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