Egypt’s National Council for Human Rights (NCHR) announced on Sunday that Ambassador Moushira Khattab has officially resigned from her position as president of the council, effective Saturday, May 31. Her departure marks the end of a historic tenure, as she was the first woman to lead the council since its establishment in 2003.
Ambassador Mahmoud Karem, the current vice president of the NCHR, will assume the role of acting president, according to an official statement released by the council. His leadership will continue through the remainder of the council’s current term.
Khattab’s resignation comes as she prepares to pursue a new position within an international organization. While specific details regarding her future role remain undisclosed, her resignation letter emphasized her gratitude to Egypt’s political leadership for their trust in her appointment, which followed her nomination by the House of Representatives in 2021.
“I extend my deepest appreciation to the political leadership for endorsing my appointment and to the members of the NCHR, who represent a distinguished body of human rights professionals,” Khattab wrote.
Khattab’s tenure was marked by key initiatives aimed at promoting human rights, expanding civic space, and improving Egypt’s international standing on human rights issues. Her leadership was also pivotal in guiding the council during a period of increased scrutiny and calls for reform from both domestic and international observers.
The NCHR confirmed that legal procedures are being initiated to formalize the leadership transition, in accordance with governing laws. As acting president, Ambassador Mahmoud Karem will lead the council in continuing its mandate, which includes monitoring human rights conditions, advising on policy reforms, and representing Egypt in human rights forums.
Amb. Karem, a seasoned diplomat and former ambassador to the EU and Japan, is widely respected for his experience in foreign policy and human rights advocacy.
