In a country where traditional beliefs and taboos dominate discussions surrounding sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), Edraak Foundation in Egypt is challenging the harmful social norms and stigma that limit women’s control over their bodies. Edraak has worked to create awareness, advocate for change, and empower women and girls, especially in marginalised and rural areas. Their efforts aim to break down barriers and address systemic discrimination that prevents women from making informed healthcare decisions.
Their AmplifyChange project, implemented over two years, established focal points in three key regions of Egypt: Cairo, Dakahlia, and Aswan. These focal points brought together community leaders, parents, medical teams, and local actors to open dialogues about SRHR issues. These discussions laid the groundwork for developing a practical and culturally sensitive toolkit that activists, NGOs, and health service providers can use to address SRHR challenges at the community level to engage in meaningful advocacy for women’s bodily autonomy.
Her Body, Her Right
Central to Edraak’s strategy was a comprehensive advocacy campaign titled Her Body… Her Right. Conducted in collaboration with seven partner NGOs and feminist groups, the campaign used webinars, social media posts, live Q&A sessions, and storytelling initiatives to challenge myths, raise awareness, and empower women with knowledge. One of the highlights of this campaign was the development of podcasts about the impacts of stigma around female sexuality in Egypt and in Morocco. Personal stories highlighted practices such as single women being refused timely gynaecological treatment without the permission of a male relative, with severe health consequences. These encouraged others to speak out, and the campaign collected testimonies from 15 other women about their experiences of medical discrimination and societal pressure.
Edraak also provided immediate support to over 20 women and girls through a live Instagram session with a gynaecologist. Participants could ask questions about uterine diseases, menstrual health, contraception, and more.
Collective action for lasting change
In addition to raising awareness, the campaign led to tangible advocacy wins. For example, Edraak and its partner organisations issued a joint statement condemning the actions of a gynaecologist who breached patient confidentiality by sharing patients’ stories on social media. This breach not only violated medical ethics but also perpetuated harmful narratives about women’s honour and rights. The campaign succeeded in bringing the issue to the attention of authorities, resulting in an investigation and broader public discourse about the ethical responsibilities of medical professionals. This example served as a powerful reminder of the importance of holding institutions and individuals accountable to protect women’s rights.
The initiative has faced significant challenges, both practical – e.g. lack of internet connectivity in remote areas – and cultural, such as resistance from conservative and anti-rights groups in person and online. Despite these challenges, key successes have had a lasting impact:
- a collaborative approach bringing together seven NGOs and feminist groups, which amplified reach and breadth of message
- a qualitative research study, “How Do Women in Egypt Make Medical Decisions Regarding Their Sexual and Reproductive Health?”, providing valuable insight into the barriers women face and a vital resource for advocacy efforts
- the establishment of an SRHR alliance among the partner organisations, marking a significant step toward sustaining collective action on these issues
Looking to the future, Edraak aims to expand its efforts by establishing an SRHR Academy for the MENA region, offering workshops, courses, and resources to raise awareness about bodily rights, comprehensive sexual education, and period equality as well as cultivating a new generation of feminist leaders.
Edraak’s initiative demonstrates the power of collective action, innovative advocacy, and sustained community engagement in challenging harmful norms and promoting women’s bodily autonomy. By addressing both the immediate needs of women and the systemic barriers that limit their rights, Edraak is paving the way for a future where every woman in Egypt can make informed decisions about her health and life. While resistance from conservative forces remains a challenge, the foundation’s commitment to fostering societal change and empowering women offers a hopeful and transformative vision for the future.
