Eltahawy Mona

Mona Eltahawy

Public figure: journalist, author, and commentator focused on gender, politics, and human rights. Born July 28, 1967 in Port Said, Egypt. Egyptian‑American writer and speaker known for advocacy of women’s rights and critique of misogyny in the Middle East and beyond.

Biographical Snapshot

Eltahawy has built a global profile as a bold commentator and essayist. She has contributed to major international outlets and delivered high‑profile talks on feminism, freedom of expression, and social reform. Her work often centers on the intersection of gender and political power, as well as the experiences of women in Arab societies and diaspora communities.

Notable Works & Media

• Headscarves and Hymens: Why the Middle East Needs a Sexual Revolution (2011; widely circulated and translated; expanded editions released in subsequent years)
• Regular op-ed contributions and reportage for major outlets including The Guardian, Foreign Policy, The Washington Post, The New York Times, and other reputable publications

News & Recent Focus

Her recent public focus has remained on gender equality, women’s rights, and reform in the Arab world, with commentary on sexual violence, censorship, and state power. She is known for shedding light on feminist movements, challenging patriarchal norms, and connecting local struggles to global conversations. She frequently participates in conversations about MeToo in the Middle East and advocates for autonomous, safe spaces for women and marginalized communities.

Recent Projects & Activities

• Public speaking at universities, literary festivals, and international conferences on feminism, human rights, and Middle East politics
• Ongoing journalism and opinion pieces for global audiences addressing gender justice and political accountability
• Engagements with advocacy organizations and think tanks focused on women’s rights, freedom of expression, and reform in the Arab world

Social Media & Online Presence

• X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/monaeltahawy
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monaeltahawy/
• Official website: https://monaeltahawy.com

Selected Publications & Media Presence

Beyond Headscarves and Hymens, Eltahawy’s bylines appear across leading media platforms, where she analyzes gender, power, religion, and politics. Her voice is often cited in discussions about feminist movements in the Middle East, the politics of reform, and global conversations on sexual autonomy and equality.