Examining the Path Ahead: Facing Obstacles in Egypt’s Transition

With a first draft of its constitution written, the status of the Constituent Assembly in limbo, and parliamentary elections looming on the horizon, Egypt is facing several crucial tests in its transition at once. By their very nature, the outcomes of these obstacles will have long-lasting effects on Egypt’s political environment and will set Egypt’s path into the future. Given the importance of these events, it becomes necessary to assess where Egypt is headed and how best to support Egyptian aspirations for democracy. Join us in discussing the following questions, among others:

• Now that the Constituent Assembly has released a draft constitution, how have various sectors of Egyptian society reacted, and what changes might be made before the final form is completed?

• What role have civil society organizations and media outlets played in Egypt’s transition, especially during the constitution-drafting period, and what obstacles do they still face in accomplishing their work?

• What can we expect in Egypt’s upcoming parliamentary elections? How will recently formed parties fair against the Freedom & Justice Party, which dominated the previous parliamentary elections, and which issues facing Egypt will play the biggest role in determining the elections’ outcome?

• How can the U.S. best support the democratic aspirations of Egyptians as their nation is faced with these difficult obstacles in its transition? How have past U.S. reactions to political obstacles in Egypt affected Egyptian opinion and confidence in the U.S.?