Ragia Omran: Abused in Egypt
Ragia Omran: Abused in Egypt
The human rights activist discusses the rising violence against women in Egypt and why she refuses to stay silent.
Sexual harassment and attacks on women in Egypt were a problem before the January 25 revolution, but in the two years since the Arab Spring came to Cairo, the problem has grown worse.
Violent assaults - groping, stripping and rapes have become increasingly frequent at the heart of the uprising, Tahrir Square.
Sexual assault in Egypt, activists say, has become a weapon of war against women. Many have long stayed silent, but not anymore.
One of those making their voices heard is Ragia Omran, a prominent lawyer, human rights activist, and feminist. She talks to Al Jazeera about the women abused in Egypt, the role of women, and why she refuses to stay silent.
"Egyptian women have always historically participated in public life ... not only as protesters but also defending people. The role of women threatens. We are in a patriarchal society. Women are a big part of the group demanding more rights, there is a strong sense of women empowerment, however the society is not accepting that.
http://www.aljazeera.com/programmes/talktojazeera/2013/03/2013330111515490735.html
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