Egyptian Christians have faced systemic bias because national ID cards display citizens’ religion, according to a multifaith network.

The requirement has made it harder for believers to access jobs, education and justice, and converts from Islam were not able to legally change their status.

‘We need to create a social movement,’ said a spokesperson from the multifaith network, Empower Women Media, as calls grow to end Egypt’s religion-on-ID policy. According to Christianity Today, advocates warned the rule fuels discrimination against Christians despite constitutional protections.

Amira Butros, a Coptic Christian, fled her home after a Muslim neighbour attacked her and accused her of converting others. “Local authorities refused to file her complaint because she was a Christian,” the report said.

Butros sought refuge in a Cairo safe house run by Help for the Persecuted.

Shirin Taber, the executive director of US-based Empower Women Media, said removing religion from IDs would “give better opportunities for people to live their lives.” Her group launched a campaign urging Cairo to reform the law.

Egypt’s constitution guarantees religious freedom, but advocates claimed the government rarely investigated violence against Christians. The country’s 10 million Christians, which is around ten per cent of the population, remain the largest Christian community in the Middle East.

Taber added: “We feel that addressing things like the identity card but also supporting businesses, artists, athletes, creatives and content creators will help advance the movement in the region.”