Egypt’s state-run television has taken several anchorwomen off the air until they lose weight, the broadcaster’s chief told AFP, drawing criticism from rights groups but also praise from some commentators.
Egyptian public television has been struggling to compete with private satellite channels with slicker programming.
Safaa Hegazy, the head of the Egyptian Radio and Television Union which runs state television, said six to eight anchorwomen would be affected by the decision.
The move “is within the framework of developing the broadcaster, in form and content,” she said. Hegazy said she told the anchorwomen “that they can work in production during the period they need to lose weight.” “They can then return to the screen,” she said.
The move provoked a backlash from rights groups who labelled it discriminatory.
The Women’s Center for Guidance and Legal Awareness in Egypt called the decision “shameful” and said it was contrary to Egypt’s constitution. Hegazy dismissed allegations the decision was sexist.

Source: Arab News