Womens' safety in Egypt in limbo

Tension is rising again in Egypt's Tahrir Square.

And this time, the women are speaking out.

The New York Times reports the public space known for ousting the Mubarak regime is now a nest for sexual assaults.

President Mohammad Morsi called a meeting Sunday to find solutions to increase women's safety.  

Drafting legislation to criminalize sexual harassment was proposed.

However, Women’s rights advocates say the bill won't help them face the stigma they get when they report to authorities. 

Ultraconservative Islamists are blaming the women for speaking up.

Islamist preacher Ahmed Abdullah belongs to that contingent.

He called women, quote - speaking like ogres, without shame, politeness, fear or even femininity.

Journalist Hania Moheeb was one of the first victims to speak about the assaults.  She says the remarks are scandalous

Moheeb adds that, quote - ignorance might be an excuse, but when somebody in the legislature makes such comments, they’re encouraging the assailants.

Flickr Photo by: oxfamnovib

STORY WRITTEN BY: SATURN DE LOS ANGELES