While Cartoon is a form of art that addresses children through simple drawings and clear dialogue, it could function as the perfect medium for adults to tackle some of the most complicated and controversial issues. As many websites continue to suffer from the blockade, alternative methods of expression contribute to progress the political and social dialogues. From 24 May till now, 130 websites have been blocked preventing readers in Egypt from accessing online news websites, according to Association for Freedom of Thought and Expression (AFTE). Not only does the blockade cripple the freedom of the press, but also it is considered unconstitutional as it violates Article 57 stipulating the public’s right to know and to access information. Moreover, critics and opponents of the governments have continued to suffer from arbitrary arrests and detentions, forced disappearances, imprisonments and acts of torture. Egyptian cartoonists are no exception; Islam Gawish who is known for his satirical slant on political issues was arrested earlier in January 2016 for allegedly “running a website without a license”. Gawish publishes his work on the Facebook page “elwarka” – or a sheet of paper – which is followed by more…
An Overview on Caricature Art in Egypt Amid Crackdown on Press Freedom
August 2, 2017
