Egypt has been granted observer status on the Steering Committee on New and Emerging Digital Technologies (CDDIT) of the Council of Europe, following a decision adopted by the Council's Committee of Ministers during its meeting earlier this month.

The Egyptian delegation is scheduled to participate in the committee's upcoming meeting, which will take place from July 21 to 23.

Strengthening Egypt's International Digital Presence

The development marks another milestone in the efforts of Egypt's Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) to expand the country's presence in international forums focused on emerging digital technologies and to deepen cooperation with European institutions in this strategic field.

The observer status will enable Egypt to engage more closely in discussions surrounding digital governance, emerging technologies, and the development of international standards.

Expanding Cooperation With the Council of Europe

The ministry has been actively involved in several Council of Europe initiatives and programs, including:

South Programme V, which focuses on protecting human rights, the rule of law, and democracy through shared standards across the Southern Mediterranean.
The Human Rights Education for Legal Professionals (HELP) training program.
International training on Artificial Intelligence Risk and Impact Assessment Methodology, covering human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.

Active Participation in AI and Data Protection Initiatives

Egypt's Ministry of Communications has also participated in the Lisbon Forum 2025, organized by the Council of Europe, as well as a range of international events addressing:

Artificial intelligence governance
Personal data protection
Digital rights
Emerging technology regulation

The new observer role further strengthens Egypt's engagement with global efforts to shape responsible digital transformation, artificial intelligence governance, and international technology policy.