Christians’ situation in Egypt improves, though many still consider them ‘second-class citizens’ – Catholic World Report

While the situation of Christians has improved in Egypt under its current president, many continue to regard the minority as second-class citizens, a Coptic Catholic bishop has said. In a June 24 report to the Catholic charity foundation Aid to the Church in Need United States, Bishop Kyrillos William Samaan of the Coptic Eparchy of Assiut said that Christians are underrepresented in many sectors and are sidelined in administrative positions. The Catholic leader asked for equality in the country, saying, “We are not asking for much and we are being realistic. Unfortunately, there are still many people who consider Christians to be second-class citizens.” Asked how the mistreatment is manifested, Bishop Kyrillos said, “For example, Christians are underrepresented at universities. Not only in terms of student numbers, but particularly among the faculty and the administration of the university. Every now and then, a Christian is appointed but this is mere show.” “Overall, Christians are usually passed over, even when they are equally qualified,” Bishop Kyrillos said, adding, “This is also the case in public administration and the army.” He called for a change in mentality, for other religions to start treating Christians as their equals, in adherence to calls made by the country’s head of state, President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi who, the bishop says, constantly talks about “the equality of all Egyptians.”

Christians’ situation in Egypt improves, though many still consider them ‘second-class citizens’ – Catholic World Report