(Cairo, Egypt - 13 April 2025) The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Egypt and the Ministry of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation (MoPEDIC) convened today an inception workshop with key national stakeholders to kickstart the preparations for the upcoming Egypt Human Development Report (EHDR) 2025. The workshop aims to ensure that the forthcoming EHDR addresses the most pressing development challenges facing Egypt today and advocates for people-centered policies, with a strong focus on inclusivity, innovation, and resilience in the face of national and global transformations. 

Opening remarks were delivered by Dr. Rania Al Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation, and Alessandro Fracassetti, UNDP Resident Representative in Egypt. This was followed by a presentation delivered by Dr. Magued Osman, Lead Author of the report. 

Attending the workshop was Dr. Ashraf El Araby, President of the Institute of National Planning (INP) in addition to representatives from government entities, independent experts, academia, CSOs/NGOs, private sector and development partners. 

In her speech, H.E. Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation said:  "As we begin preparations for the Egypt Human Development Report 2025, this flagship initiative serves as both a diagnostic and a catalyst, bridging gaps between basic needs, human capital, and empowerment, while spotlighting key drivers of inclusive and sustainable growth in the backdrop of an evolving world order. Capitalizing on previous editions, and with a renewed focus on jobs, productivity and opportunities, the report aims to put forth a collaborative and data-driven process via contributions from national experts and wide stakeholder engagement, ensuring synchronization with national commitments." 

From his side, Alessandro Fracassetti, UNDP Egypt Resident Representative, stated: "The Human Development Reports are more than just data and analysis. They are nationally owned, inclusive platforms for dialogue and reflection—rooted in research, but driven by people’s real priorities and lived experiences. As we navigate complex global shifts—from technological disruption to climate volatility—this report offers an opportunity to reimagine Egypt’s development trajectory.” 

This upcoming edition follows the latest Egypt Human Development Report, produced in 2021, titled “Development, a Right for All: Egypt’s Pathways and Prospects.” That report marked a milestone after more than a ten-year gap, offering a comprehensive review of Egypt’s development journey from 2011 to 2020.  

As preparations begin for the 2025 edition, UNDP and the ministry reaffirm their commitment to producing a report that is data-driven, inclusive, and forward-looking—offering valuable insights and practical solutions to accelerate sustainable development across Egypt in the context of an increasingly interconnected and uncertain world. 

The EHDR 2025 will be developed through a participatory process involving national experts, sectoral consultations, civil society and youth voices, ensuring it reflects the aspirations and challenges of all Egyptians.