Source: Baha'i World News Service

http://news.bahai.org/story/454

On June 15, 2006 the Baha'i World News Service reported, "Proponents of religious freedom around the world are expected to watch closely the appeal by the government of a case on which an Egyptian court will hold a hearing next Monday. The case concerns an administrative court's ruling in April in favor of an Egyptian Baha'i couple who sought not to have their religion falsely identified on government documents, such as ID cards, without which most rights of citizenship are unobtainable. Under pressure from conservative elements of Egyptian society, the government has appealed that decision, taking it before the Supreme Administrative Court. The initial ruling and the appeal have drawn extensive media attention in Egypt and the Arab world as the implications go far beyond the Baha'is who are directly involved, explained Hossam Bahgat, director of the Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights (EIPR), an independent Egyptian human rights organization. 'This case is important not only for Baha'is but for all Egyptians as it will set an important precedent in terms of citizenship, equality, and freedom of religion,' said Mr. Bahgat. 'There is a huge interest in this case.'"