The proposed new family law is one of the most prominent bills submitted to the Egyptian House of Representatives in the previous session and is expected to be included in the legislative agenda for the second session. The bill was referred to a joint committee of the Constitutional and Legislative Affairs Committee and the offices of the Social Solidarity and Family Committee, the Committee on Persons with Disabilities, the Religious Affairs and Endowments Committee, and the Human Rights Committee.
Despite the approaching date for the resumption of the House of Representatives' second session, there has been no discussion on the proposed family law, sparking concerns about its fate. Earlier, there were rumors about the government's withdrawal of the bill, but the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Hani Azhar, denied these claims, stating that the government had fulfilled its role by submitting the bill to the parliament.
The Minister of Parliamentary Affairs emphasized the government's respect for the constitutional and legislative process, expressing openness to all opinions and proposals that will be presented during the discussion of the bill. The government had approved the bill as a first step towards achieving balanced legislation that aligns with constitutional provisions and satisfies citizens' concerns.
Before the bill was submitted to the parliament, the Social Solidarity Committee held a hearing to discuss the Egyptian family file and explore ways to develop the legislative framework governing it. The committee aimed to update the framework to keep pace with social changes while preserving societal values and constants from various social, religious, cultural, and legal aspects.
Since the bill's submission to the parliament and its referral to the relevant committees, none of the committees have started discussing the family law, despite calls for its urgent consideration. The Azhar Sheikhdom had previously announced that it had not been presented with the proposed family law and denied participating in drafting any of its articles.
The proposed family law for Egyptian Christians was also submitted by the government and referred to the same committees. The law aims to provide a comprehensive framework for family-related issues, taking into account the diverse needs of Egyptian society. Its inclusion in the legislative agenda for the second session is eagerly anticipated.
Key stakeholders, including the government, parliament, and various committees, are expected to engage in discussions and debates on the proposed family law. The law's development is crucial for addressing family-related concerns and providing a modern framework that aligns with Egypt's social and cultural context.
Key points
- The proposed family law is expected to be included in the legislative agenda for the second session of the House of Representatives.
- The government has denied rumors of withdrawing the bill, emphasizing its commitment to the constitutional and legislative process.
- The Azhar Sheikhdom has denied participating in drafting the proposed family law, citing a lack of engagement with the bill.
