Providing Legal Support During COP27 in Egypt

Prior to COP27, human rights organizations warned about the threats posed to activists seeking to protest at or near the UN’s climate conference.

United Nations’ appointed experts expressed concern that the political environment in Egypt would not allow for full participation of all individuals and organizations wishing to attend and make their voices heard at COP27. Called the “African COP,” only 20% of grassroots African climate activists ended up securing the credentials necessary to participate. 

Our Work

CliDef held a dozen webinars in advance of the conference to provide legal information; widely disseminated a “Know the Law'' guide; hosted a legal protection hotline; and provided local lawyers for in-person advice and representation services during COP27. Before and during COP, Egyptian activists organized massive protests resulting in more than a thousand arrested and jailed. CliDef’s support for their legal representation has enabled the release of two hundred of these activists.