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Egyptian court hands down surprise victory for press freedom

Egypt's Supreme Constitutional Court has struck down a restriction on launching newspapers, but a replacement law that parliament is considering is an unknown entity.
A general view of the Press Syndicate in Cairo, Egypt June 12, 2017. REUTERS/Mohamed Abd El Ghany - RTS16PRS
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CAIRO — Numerous journalists and media figures believe freedom of the press in Egypt is being threatened as never before, but from time to time, hope still glimmers that what remains can be preserved.

Egypt’s Supreme Constitutional Court ruled June 3 that one article of a press "organizational law" passed in December is unconstitutional. The section restricts individuals from launching newspapers that aren't affiliated with a political party, news syndicate or association. Individuals must partner with a company, and the company's shareholders must be Egyptians.

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