Pew: The Tahrir Square Legacy: Egyptians Want Democracy, a Better Economy, a Major Role for Islam

Two years after Egyptians first poured into Cairo’s Tahrir Square chanting “Down with Mubarak” the legacy of the Arab Spring remains uncertain. Elections have been held and a new constitution is in place, but Egyptian politics are still very much in flux, with fundamental political issues unresolved. Still, polling since the uprising shows that Egyptians have some clear – and ambitious – priorities. They want democratic rights and institutions, a major role for Islam in political life, and an improved economy – a challenging set of demands for President Mohamed Morsi and the new cadre of Egyptian leaders.



Egyptians consistently express lofty democratic aspirations. In a 2012 Pew Research Center poll, two-in-three said democracy is the best form of government, while just 19% said that in some circumstances a non-democratic form of government is best. Only 13% said it doesn’t really matter what kind of government runs the country.

Moreover, there is a strong desire for specific democratic rights and institutions. About eight-in-ten (81%) considered it very important to live in a country with a judicial system that treats everyone in the same way, while roughly six-in-ten said it is very important to have a free press (62%); free speech (60%); and honest, competitive elections with at least two political parties (58%).

Fewer say it is very important to live in a country with equal rights for women, religious freedom for minorities, and uncensored internet access. Nevertheless, majorities do rate each of these as at least somewhat important.

http://www.pewglobal.org/2013/01/24/the-tahrir-square-legacy-egyptians-want-democracy-a-better-economy-and-a-major-role-for-islam/

Interesting the 'fair judiciary' ranks up there with an 'improved economy' to Egyptians. That must say something about the nature of the courts under Mubarak.

It is discouraging that religious freedom and equal rights for women do not rank higher though a majority do consider them to be important. At least a majority do not oppose religious freedom and equal rights for women. It will be a long struggle.