IRI Statement Regarding Raids on its Offices in Egypt

Arabic version

Washington, DC – This afternoon in Egypt, IRI’s offices were raided by security services.  IRI is dismayed and disappointed by these actions.  IRI has been working with Egyptians since 2005; it is ironic that even during the Mubarak era IRI was not subjected to such aggressive action.

Today’s raid is confusing given that IRI was officially invited by the Government of Egypt to witness the people’s assembly elections, and was in the process of deploying a high level international delegation to observe the third phase of elections on January 3 and 4, having successfully deployed witnesses for phases one and two. 

IRI has worked with Egyptian political parties and civil society to share technical skills and provide information about democratic participation.  IRI does not provide monetary or material support to political parties or civil society groups in Egypt.

Established in 1983, IRI is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization committed to advancing democracy worldwide by strengthening political parties, civic institutions, open elections and democratic governance. 

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