Why Egypt’s Brutal ‘Rabaa Massacre’ Never Went To Court, Even After 10 Years?

Rights groups are calling for accountability over the deaths of hundreds of people in Egypt 10 years ago. The deaths occurred when security forces dispersed a protest against the ouster of the country’s first democratically elected president. 

The crackdown escalated and included activists and politicians from various political backgrounds. Rights groups claim that over 800 people were killed during the dispersal. 

Many of those accused of involvement in the protest were convicted in a mass trial in 2018. Human rights organizations are demanding truth, justice, and reparation for the victims and their families.

The brutal ‘Rabaa Massacre’ in Egypt, one of the worst protester killings, hasn’t gone to court despite a decade passing. 

Despite extensive evidence, including eyewitness accounts, pictures, videos, and documentaries, no real justice has been served. 

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On August 14, 2013, Egyptian security forces fired at around 85,000 protesters in Cairo’s Rabaa al-Adawiya square who were demonstrating against the removal of President Mohammed Morsi by the military. 

Human rights organizations report that between 600 and over 1,000 people were killed. Investigations in Egypt blamed the protesters to some extent but acknowledged excessive force by security forces. 

Laws granting immunity to military leaders and amendments to the Supreme Constitutional Court have hindered accountability. 

International efforts to seek justice have faced obstacles, as Egypt hasn’t fully joined relevant international courts. 

The principle of “universal jurisdiction,” which allows any country to prosecute war crimes committed anywhere, is difficult in this case due to diplomatic immunity and lack of extraditions. 

Additionally, political considerations play a role, and focus has shifted to other countries. However, changing global attitudes toward Egypt’s government may provide a little hope for justice in the future.