U.N. praises rights in Egypt terror law

CAIRO, April 22 (UPI) -- Analysts with the United Nations praised a Cairo decision to include human rights in its draft of a counter-terrorism law set to replace a state of emergency.

Martin Scheinin, an independent expert working for the United Nations on the rule of law in anti-terror measures, met with top officials in Cairo to review a counter-terrorism law set to replace a 25-year state of emergency in Egypt, the U.N. news agency reports.

In 2006, Cairo extended a state of emergency that imposes harsh restrictions on free speech, permits indefinite and arbitrary detentions and prohibits the peaceful assembly of more than five people.

"I was able to have open and extensive discussions with key stakeholders regarding the country's counter-terrorism law and practices," Scheinin said, adding that decisions on human rights aspects were encouraging.

Fathi Sorour, speaker of the People's Assembly in Cairo, said the constant threat of terrorist activity in the region requires a harsh line on counter-terrorism, Egypt's State Information Service reports.

Sorour added, however, the draft law set to replace the state of emergency weighs human rights and state security equally.

The state of emergency in Egypt is set to expire May 28, 2010.

Scheinin added following consultation with legal officials in Cairo that he would remain active on the issue throughout the year.

"I will continue my dialogue with Egypt with a view to submitting a full public report on its counter-terrorism law and practice by the end of 2009," he said.