It took a decade.
After a decade of struggling against an incorrect religious designation on his identification documents, an Egyptian Christian man has succeeded in having his religious affiliation accurately reflected. Known only as Elias for security reasons, this Cairo resident was mistakenly listed as Muslim on all official records due to a clerical error by Egyptian authorities. This misidentification severely impacted his family’s life, including their ability to participate in Christian activities and access Christian schools for his children.
Despite numerous attempts to correct this error, Elias faced persistent rejection of his requests, leading to significant discrimination and hindering his family’s religious practices. However, thanks to the efforts of ADF International and its network of allied attorneys, a resolution was reached. The government has now directed the necessary changes to Elias’s documents to correctly represent his Christian faith.
Elias’s case highlights a broader issue faced by religious minorities in Egypt, where changing one’s religious designation on official documents can lead to harassment and discrimination. According to Kelsey Zorzi, Director of Global Religious Freedom at ADF International, this situation is not uncommon and reflects ongoing challenges in aligning laws with religious freedom standards. The group is pleased with Elias’s successful resolution but continues to support others facing similar issues.
In Egypt, where ID cards must list religious affiliation, errors can lead to significant consequences, including violations of religious freedom. Christians in Egypt frequently face various forms of persecution, from public harassment to violence that forces them from their homes. The government’s positive statements about the Christian community contrast with the reality of inadequate protection and support.
Additionally, ADF International is advocating for Nour Girgis and Abdulbaqi Saeed Abdo, two Christian men detained since 2021 over their association with a Facebook page supporting Christian converts from Islam. The group is pursuing international legal avenues to secure their release, and Abdo has recently begun a hunger strike to protest his unjust detention.