The acquittal of an Egyptian military doctor accused of carrying out forced “virginity tests” on women protesters is yet further proof that military courts are incapable of dealing with cases involving human rights abuses, Amnesty International said today.
The case arose from a complaint filed by Samira Ibrahim, 25, one of the women who endured the “virginity tests” in March 2011.
“Once again, the Egyptian military have failed women, particularly those like Samira Ibrahim, who have shown tremendous courage in challenging the military establishment in Egypt,” said Hassiba Hadj Sahraoui, Deputy Middle East and North Africa Director at Amnesty International.
“This decision is not only a travesty of justice but further proof that cases of human rights abuses by the military should be dealt with in civilian courts.”
Amnesty International called on the Egyptian military to respect a decision by an administrative court banning “virginity tests” and to ensure women who were forced to endure tests have access to justice and reparations.