Egypt's Supreme Court Backs Women Judges Against Conservatives

Egypt’s women judges applauded a Constitutional Court ruling on Sunday, saying that women can be appointed to the country’s top advisory court.

The body’s general assembly voted overwhelmingly against female judges, reigniting a debate within the country over women holding senior government posts, particularly in the judiciary.

The Cairo-based New Women’s Foundation voiced their frustration in a press conference:

“We are pleased that the court has revoked the decision, but there is still a long way to go before we are able to have a place in Egypt’s upper parts of society,” said Eman, a recent law graduate who had participated in the protests in February and early March against the State Council’s ruling. via Bika Masr

Nasser Amin, a legal expert, said however the ruling was not “decisive” and debates within the administrative courts could still continue along the conservative-liberal faultline. There is another meeting on March 22.

“This is a conflict between liberals and conservatives within all instituations of the state,” he said. “The Constitutional Court could have put an end to it by saying discriminating against women in public office is unconstitutional and must stop.” via AP