Aeon, the international online magazine, released an article on 6 October about Egypt's current situation under President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi's rule.
The article highlights the widespread human rights abuses and crackdowns on free speech and dissent in Egypt. It mentions the numerous cases of arbitrary arrests and detention, torture, and enforced disappearances, primarily targeting journalists, activists, and opposition figures.
The author of the article argues that Sisi's regime has taken an authoritarian turn, with the government using the judiciary to silence its critics, impose censorship, and limit the freedom of association and assembly.
The article also touches on the economic situation in Egypt, which has been further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a high level of inflation and unemployment. The author suggests that the government's economic policies, which prioritize large infrastructure projects, have failed to address the root causes of poverty and inequality in the country.
Despite these issues, the article acknowledges that Sisi remains popular among many Egyptians who see him as a strongman capable of restoring stability after years of political turmoil. However, the author argues that the government's failure to address the underlying grievances of the population, including corruption, nepotism, and lack of accountability, will only lead to further discontent and unrest.
The article concludes with a call for the international community to pressure Egypt's government to improve its human rights record and respect democratic principles. It suggests that Western countries should reconsider their military and economic support for the regime, as this only serves to legitimatize its repression and undermine the prospects for democracy in the country.