The impact of the European neighbourhood policy's action : plan in promoting human rights in Egypt

Abstract

In its policy statements and in the founding treaties, the European Union places a significant emphasis on democracy, human rights, the rule of law and reform. Respect for Human Rights has been included in practically all of the EU's agreements with third countries in the form of what is referred to as the 'essential clause'. By reference to Egypt as a case study, this thesis examines the relationship between the EU's objectives in advocating reform and respect for Human Rights in the southern Mediterranean region, and how these objectives are perceived in such countries. By evaluating the impact on elections and the media in Egypt, this dissertation argues that the ENP has helped in strengthening EU-Egyptian relations at an economic level, but failed to be a sufficient transformative policy that brings Egypt's political system more closely into line with that of the EU.