Lately the news has been full of stories from Egypt. As protesters celebrate their liberation from their longtime leader, Hosni Mubarak, they gathered at a marble memorial set up in Cairo’s Tahrir Square today, to mourn the victims of the clashes of the last three weeks. Some placed flowers next to the pictures.
In less than three weeks, Egypt had overthrown a ruler of 30 years, witnessed the military dissolve parliament and helped fuel anti-government protests in Yemen and Algeria. However, as demands for change ripple through the region, many Egyptians are trying to hash out what comes next.
The biggest question is what will happen to Egypt? Demonstrators had demanded changes such as a repeal of Egypt’s emergency law and the implementation of a civilian body but this has been replaced by a military body – to oversee Egypt’s transition to a new government.
Many are demanding better pays especially those who are working for the National Bank and the police force.
However, Egypt has to struggle with the economic problems that fueled the revolution including massive youth unemployment and economic underdevelopment. The demonstrations virtually shut down Egypt’s economy, costing it vital tourism dollars as well.
The military on the other hand are urging Egyptians to stop protesting and return to work as a lack of production will be more harmful to the country’s economy.
What do you think is next for Egypt? Stay tuned with us for more updates on Egypt and what is to come next! For those in the Boston area, come to our YPIC On Tap event tomorrow (Tuesday) evening at Kennedy’s Midtown, where we will be discussing the future of Egypt and it’s impact on foreign relations with other globally-minded young professionals over some libations. Find out more here: http://conta.cc/eGGQgC
And join us!
-NaEun