Religion in Egypt
Egypt is an African nation surrounded by countries influenced largely by Islam. Historically, Egyptian society functioned as a homogeneous unit, though with internal divisions. Its primary religion is Islam, accounting for about 90 percent of the population, yet some Egyptians identify with a different faith: Christianity.
Christianity In Egypt
Christianity in Egypt dates back to the first century AD, when it is believed to have been brought by a group of Roman settlers. Though Christianity is not recognized officially in the first constitution of 1923, it has been accepted as an existing religion since its establishment in the fourth century.
Egypt is home to the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria, the largest Christian church in the Middle East. This church, in communion with Roman Catholicism, Greek Orthodoxy, and other Eastern Orthodoxy, has 5 million adherents in Egypt alone. Christians make up about 10 percent of the population in the country, most practicing Coptic Orthodoxy, but also other denominations.
Despite this, Christians in Egypt face discrimination in employment, access to education and political influence. Though constitutionally empowered to practice their faith in Egypt, Christians are subject to religious hostility and laws that many view as discriminatory, such as the prohibition against building or repairing churches.
Situation of Religious Freedom in Egypt
Egypt is a religiously diverse country and the Constitution of 2014 states that Islam is the official religion and allows for the limited rights of religious freedom. However, the government does not protect these rights in practice, and religious freedom is often restricted for Christians and other non-Muslims.
Most Christians face state-sanctioned discrimination, including limits on their religious freedoms, intimidation, harassment and violence. In recent years, the government has increased its efforts to crack down on religious minorities, arresting and prosecuting them on charges of blasphemy, inciting sedition and “contempt of religion.”
The government has been accused of using the legal system to target Christians, using it as an excuse to persecute them. The government has also been accused of supplying justifications for intolerance in the form of legislation and speeches, which produce a hostile environment for Christians.
How Christians Survive in Egypt
Despite the restrictions and discrimination, Christians continue to play a significant role in the cultural and political landscape of Egypt. They have managed to do this mainly through education and economic advancement. It is estimated that around 15 percent of university students in Egypt are Christians and many have gone on to pursue successful careers in business, government and the arts.
In addition to this, many Christians have found success in the tourism industry, which is a large part of the economy in Egypt. Christian-owned hotels, restaurants and other businesses have provided employment opportunities for Christians, and have been largely unaffected by other forms of discrimination.
Efforts to Ensure Religious Freedom in Egypt
There is great potential for Egypt to become an inclusive and accepting country, one that guarantees all its citizens the right to practice their faith without fear of persecution. Groups like the Tahrir Institute for Middle East Policy and the Egyptian human rights organization El Nadim are working to ensure that the people of Egypt are protected from religious persecution.
Their efforts include advocating for more inclusive laws that protect religious minorities and hold those who persecute minorities accountable. They also work to increase public awareness of the importance of religious freedoms and promote interfaith dialogue.
Potential Effects of Improved Religious Freedom in Egypt
Improved religious freedoms in Egypt could potentially lead to a stronger government. Recent political turmoil has been attributed in part to the lack of a unified national identity, which is rooted in religious differences. Increasing religious tolerance could help ease this tension and build bridges between the various religious factions.
Improved religious freedoms could also lead to a more diverse society and an influx of new investments. This increased investment could help revitalize and grow Egypt’s economy. Egypt has long been touted as a potential regional leader, and greater religious freedom could be key in achieving this potential.
Positive Outlook
There is still much work to be done in terms of guaranteeing religious freedom in Egypt. Despite this, the current outlook is relatively positive. The country has made strides in recent years towards greater religious tolerance, and there are groups and organizations working to ensure that all citizens are given the same rights and protections.
Role of International Support
International support is key to furthering the progress of religious freedom in Egypt. Political and economic pressure from other nations and international organizations can often be an effective way to encourage increased rights and protections for religious minorities in Egypt.
Conclusion
Though Christians in Egypt have faced discrimination for centuries, there are signs that the situation is improving. The government has taken steps to protect religious minorities, though more needs to be done. International support is key in ensuring that all citizens in Egypt are given the same rights and protections.
