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The American Security Project (ASP) hosted an event titled “Egypt: Past, Present, and the Future.” The featured speaker at the event was Dr. Mona Makram-Ebeid, a former Member of the Egyptian Senate.

Egypt has been at the forefront of many discussions over the last few years as it has seen popular upheaval against perceived injustices. Protestors took to the streets and toppled a leader to usher in an era of democracy. However, the power vacuum after Mubarak left office left the country scrambling. The parliament was dissolved, new elections were held making Muhammad Mursi and the Muslim Brotherhood big winners.

The hopes of a secular and democratic Egypt began to fade with the election which prompted another protest against Morsi. This time, Morsi was ousted with the help of the military and Adly Mansour is made the interim President. There is still hope that the government adopts a Constitution that gives more power to the people and protects minority rights of those in Egypt.

At the event, Dr. Makram-Ebeid spoke about the prospects of democracy in Egypt, and what the current struggles mean for democracy in the country.  She highlights the need for politics to dispense of radical ideologies and accept a modern, egalitarian stance toward running the country. This would best achieve democracy and protect the Christian minorities that are being targeted by political groups, including the Muslim Brotherhood.

She also touched upon the subject of terrorism in the Sinai Peninsula, the military and strategic relationship between Egypt and the United States, and women in politics.

You can watch and listen to the event below:

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