Egypt to Implement Tougher Penalties for Spreading Disinformation

Egyptian authorities are intensifying efforts to combat misinformation with a comprehensive package of legal and institutional measures aimed at curbing rumors that officials say threaten national security and economic stability.

During its session on Wednesday, December 10, the Egyptian Council of Ministers reviewed several initiatives designed to strengthen the government’s capacity to address disinformation campaigns. The proposed measures include legislative amendments, specialized monitoring units, and enhanced institutional coordination.

The Council has directed the Ministry of Justice to draft amendments to the Penal Code, specifically targeting Article 380, which deals with penalties for spreading rumors. Officials stated that current fines are “insufficient” and require significant enhancement to create stronger deterrence against misinformation, especially considering “the danger they pose to the security of society and the national economy.”

Legal experts familiar with Egyptian media regulations note that this move comes amid growing government concern about the impact of social media platforms, which have become increasingly influential in shaping public opinion in Egypt. The country has previously implemented various laws regulating digital content, including the 2018 Cybercrime Law and regulations for social media accounts with large followings.

Beyond legislative changes, the government approved the establishment of specialized “Early Detection Units” within all ministries. These units will be responsible for monitoring, identifying, and countering rumors before they gain traction. The initiative represents a shift toward proactive rather than reactive approaches to misinformation.

The Council also emphasized the need for stronger institutional cooperation, particularly through the Council of Ministers’ Information Service. These efforts aim to create a coordinated response system that can quickly address emerging misinformation with “accurate, documented information.”

In a parallel development that underscores the government’s comprehensive approach, officials are accelerating the development of a draft law to regulate access to and circulation of official data. This legislation, which aligns with Article 68 of the Egyptian Constitution, seeks to balance transparency with data security concerns. The Council described this forthcoming law as an “effective tool for combating misinformation” by providing citizens with reliable information from official sources.

“The ability to access accurate information from authoritative sources is fundamental to countering false narratives,” said an Egyptian policy expert who requested anonymity. “However, the definition of what constitutes ‘rumors’ versus legitimate criticism will be crucial to how these measures are implemented.”

The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology has been tasked with developing specialized training programs for state employees. These programs will enhance technical capabilities in monitoring and verifying potential misinformation, creating a more technically proficient workforce within the government’s information apparatus.

Egypt’s approach mirrors similar initiatives in other countries grappling with digital misinformation. However, international human rights organizations have frequently expressed concerns about how such laws might impact freedom of expression and press freedom.

The timing of these measures coincides with Egypt’s ongoing economic challenges, including currency pressures and inflation concerns, suggesting authorities are particularly sensitive to information that could affect market stability or public confidence in economic policies.

As these initiatives move forward, stakeholders across Egyptian society—including media organizations, legal experts, and civil society groups—will be watching closely to see how the balance between combating harmful misinformation and protecting free expression is maintained in practice.