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Economic development of the Bedouin population. The Committee notes the Government’s reply to its previous direct request, indicating that the Government of Egypt attaches importance to the Bedouin populations of the country. It states that all the laws and special systems relating to the indigenous populations apply, whether in the fields of education, employment, medical care or training, in addition to other benefits granted by the State to such persons in view of environmental conditions and mobility. The Government has also indicated generally that the State has carried out large projects aimed at improving their living conditions and offering them appropriate employment opportunities. It indicates that vocational training has been provided to these populations, and refers to several vocational efforts in particular.

Respect for the customs and traditions of the Bedouin population. While noting these indications, the Committee recalls that it has been many years since it received a general appreciation of the way the Convention is applied in the country. While noting that the Government is deploying efforts to extend development opportunities to the Bedouin population, as required inter alia in Article 2 of the Convention, it is less apparent whether the general development effort relating to these populations promotes the development of their own cultures, and the continued enjoyment of their way of life in so far as they decide to maintain their culture (Article 7 and other provisions).

The Committee therefore requests the Government to provide in its next report an indication of the special measures that have been adopted with respect to these populations, to which it has referred in its report, and a general appreciation of how the aims of the Convention are being applied in the country.