A United Nations special investigator has initiated a formal examination into the troubling case of Egyptian-Turkish poet Galal El-Behairy, whose detention across three nations has raised alarm bells among human rights advocates worldwide.
The UN's special rapporteur on torture, Dr. Alice Edwards, confirmed her office would scrutinise the treatment of the acclaimed writer, who has faced imprisonment in Lebanon, Egypt and Turkey under circumstances that have drawn international condemnation.
A Poet's Perilous Journey
El-Behairy's ordeal began when he was first detained in Egypt in 2018 following the publication of his poetry collection 'The Finest Women on Earth', which contained verses critical of the Egyptian government and military. His subsequent sentencing to three years imprisonment sparked outrage among literary and human rights communities.
Following his release from Egyptian custody, the poet's troubles continued as he faced new legal challenges in Lebanon before ultimately seeking refuge in Turkey. However, his sanctuary proved temporary when Turkish authorities detained him, leading to his current precarious situation.
International Outcry Grows
Human rights organisations have documented numerous concerns regarding El-Behairy's treatment throughout his various detentions. Reports suggest he has faced:
- Extended periods of solitary confinement
- Denial of adequate medical care
- Restricted access to legal representation
- Psychological pressure and intimidation tactics
Prominent literary figures and free speech advocates have rallied to his cause, organising global campaigns and petitioning governments to intervene on his behalf.
UN Steps In
Dr. Edwards' investigation represents a significant escalation in international attention to the case. As the UN's leading authority on torture prevention, her involvement signals the seriousness with which the global community views the allegations surrounding El-Behairy's treatment.
'When a poet's words become grounds for imprisonment across multiple jurisdictions, we must question the state of free expression and fundamental rights,' stated a spokesperson for PEN International, which has closely monitored the case.
The investigation is expected to examine whether international laws against torture and ill-treatment have been violated throughout El-Behairy's complex transnational detention saga.
