On 15 June, at the Ministry of Social Affairs, the first in a series of consultations on the new draft NGO law, was held. The unprecedented invitation to 90 representatives of NGOs -- including all human rights organisation -- was extended by the minister of social affairs in response to negative local and international coverage of the draft law.
As the discussion unfolded, it became apparent that it was not the substance of the law but the climate of mistrust between government and NGOs that had caused the controversy. A second NGO consultation in Alexandria has been scheduled for 18 July, 1988 with further consultations scheduled in Upper Egypt.
The law is an essential instrument of social change and liberalisation. However, the law in itself is not sufficient to create progress or build a partnership. If the government and NGOs are to be partners in development, then overcoming mutual mistrust is a priority. The process of consultation and consensus building on the proposed changes to the draft law will promote mutual trust and make any potential partnership more credible. This process will also enhance a supporting culture, a culture which applauds positive participation and voluntary work, which encourages dialogue and respects diversity and the rule of democratic law.
The Ministry of Social Affairs has started a new chapter in its relationship with NGOs. The 15 June consultation signaled the start of a genuine consensus building process. NGOs have welcomed this process, a first step in the struggle to negotiate the terms of a new social contract based on mutual trust. There is some way to go before this end is achieved.
*This week's Soapbox speaker is a partner at the Shalakany Law Office and a civil rights activist.
On 15 June, at the Ministry of Social Affairs, the first in a series of consultations on the new draft NGO law, was held. The unprecedented invitation to 90 representatives of NGOs -- including all human rights organisation -- was extended by the minister of social affairs in response to negative local and international coverage of the draft law.