As President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi marks his tenth year in power, Egypt is teetering on the brink of chaos. Egyptians are crushed by an economic crisis, oppressed by a military security state, and frustrated by gross mismanagement. In the Journal of Democracy’s latest online exclusive, Shady ElGhazaly Harb predicts that this anger and loss of faith will drive Egyptians to erupt.
It’s been more than a decade since the Arab Spring uprisings. The following Journal of Democracy essays catalog Egypt’s commitment to democracy over the years and Sisi’s descent into the personalistic, repressive, and impulsive leader that rules the country today.
Why Egypt Is Growing More Unstable Fast
The economy is spiraling, public frustration is mounting, and the regime is becoming more repressive. The next time Egyptians come to the streets, they will be looking for more than promises and free elections.
Shady ElGhazaly HarbThe Autocrat-in-Training: The Sisi Regime at 10
Egypt’s general-turned-president has spent lavishly, cemented the military’s political and economic control, and, afraid of suffering Mubarak’s fate, become increasingly repressive. But with crushing inflation and everyday people suffering, is Sisi losing his grip?
Hesham SallamCracks in Sisi’s Façade
Egypt’s upcoming presidential elections are a sham. But the opposition can still take advantage of this moment to push for genuine reforms that the country desperately needs.
Waleed ShawkyThe Arab Spring at 10: Kings or People?
A decade ago, Arab peoples stood up and sought to replace their rulers with a more democratic political project. But Arab autocrats have a project of their own. Can the people gain ground in the struggle for self-government, or will their rulers bear it away?
Tarek MasoudCan Egypt’s Democratic Hopes Be Revived?
In 2011–13, the undemocratic political outlook of both secular and Islamist actors helped to ensure the failure of democracy in Egypt. Today, the populace appears to have backed away from democratic demands, yet pockets of resilient activism offer a basis for hope.
Amr HamzawyEgyptian Youth’s Digital Dissent
The military-backed regime of President al-Sisi seems secure, but study of the Egyptian internet reveals that the regime has failed to win over the young.
Adel Iskandar
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