Title: Does Egypt's mental health legislation balance patient rights and public safety?

Authors: Eid G. Abo Hamza; Moustafa Elmetwaly Kandeel; Alaa Abouahmed; Daniel Kissinger

Addresses: College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Sharjah, UAE; Faculty of Education, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt ' College of Law, Al Ain University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates; Faculty of Law, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt ' College of Law, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates; Faculty of Law, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt ' Counseling Program, School of Health Sciences, Stephens College, USA

Abstract: Trust is confidential we can provide a safe and therapeutic space for individuals seeking mental health treatment. Egypt's legal and ethical systems aim to safeguard the confidentiality of individuals seeking mental healthcare services. But cultural barriers and social stigma attached to mental healthcare may discourage individuals from seeking treatment which in turn, poses challenges to providing effective mental healthcare. The contemporary study presents a viewpoint on the present legislation relating to mental health in Egypt, what is good and what is bad, and how to improve it. This study focuses on how we can analyse the current legal and ethical frameworks supporting patient privacy, data security, and more. Accessing mental healthcare is not only a health issue but also a cultural and social challenge. The article, therefore, addresses the issue and the mental health legislation effective in the country for change of prospects. Overall, the study underlined the importance of confidentiality and upholding patient rights in mental healthcare, the continued need to reduce stigma the continued need to reduce stigma and improve access to quality mental healthcare services in Egypt.

Keywords: mental health legislation; patient rights; public safety; confidentiality in mental health; cultural barriers; stigma in mental health; legal framework; healthcare policy; mental healthcare reform; Egypt.

DOI: 10.1504/IJKL.2026.153435

International Journal of Knowledge and Learning, 2026 Vol.19 No.1, pp.1 - 15

Received: 09 May 2023
Accepted: 26 Apr 2024
Published online: 07 May 2026 *

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