Understanding Egypt: The Perspective of Safety

One might ask, Why is Egypt so dangerous? Well, for starters, Egypt is a nation grappling with a range of serious challenges. From instances of terrorism to political instability to societal tensions, Egypt has become synonymous with an atmosphere of danger. Yet, this perspective should be understood against the broad backdrop of the country’s historical and cultural context.

Political Instability

Since the Arab Spring uprisings of 2011, Egypt’s political landscape has been a mix of turbulence and unpredictability. This period saw President Hosni Mubarak overthrown by a popular revolt, only for his democratically elected successor, Mohamed Morsi, to be ousted by the military just two years later. The reigns are now in the hands of President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi who is also facing criticism for a lack of political reform and human rights violations.

Terrorism Threat

In parallel to the political instability, there’s the cloud of terrorism threat. The most significant groups include an ISIS affiliate in the Sinai Peninsula, as well as smaller extremist factions across the nation. While their main focus is the Egyptian military and police forces, there have been instances where both locals and foreigners have been targeted.

Law and Order

Following the 2011 uprising and the period of political upheaval, there was a marked downturn in law and order, with serious implications for public safety. Crime rates rose dramatically, and while they have somewhat stabilized over recent years, muggings, purse snatching, and pickpocketing are still common in crowded areas.

Personal Safety

As a traveller, it’s also important to be aware of day-to-day safety challenges. Despite being hailed as one of the cradles of civilization, Egypt does, unfortunately, demonstrate some issues regarding personal safety and societal attitudes towards women, minorities, and the LGBTQ+ community.

• For women, despite some progress made over the past couple of decades, harassment (both verbal and physical) is regularly reported, particularly in busy cities and tourist-centric locations.
• For people who identify as LGBTQ+, it is worth noting that societal attitudes can be conserved and public displays of affection can lead to both legal and social reprisals.

Health & Sanitation

There are a few health considerations to keep in mind when traveling to Egypt. Health and sanitation standards can vary significantly across the country, and in some areas, even basic sanitation and healthcare facilities may be lacking. This can add another layer to the perception of danger, especially for visitors.

Economic Hardships & Social Inequality

Economic hardships and social inequality are also pressing challenges faced by Egyptians. A significant percentage of the population lives below the poverty line with unequal distribution of wealth and limited employment opportunities. This economic disparity often manifests as desperation and frustration, sowing the seeds of social strife.

Warning Systems & Travel Advisories

To keep a tab on such situations and take preventative steps, governments often issue travel advisories. These warn travellers about potential risks and threats in certain areas or overall countries. Egypt, for instance, is often flagged by many governments’ advisories due to the concerns previously noted.

Shedding a Different Light on Egypt

Despite these aspects, Egypt isn’t all doom and gloom. It is a country steeped in mesmerizing history, rich culture, and boasts a wealth of archaeological wonders. Its enchanting mix of temples, royal tombs, pyramids, and the ancient Nile civilization capture the imagination. Egyptians themselves are known for their resilience, warm hospitality, and rich traditions like storytelling and vibrant music and dance.

Emphasizing Vigilance & Preparedness

So, is Egypt dangerous? The answer isn’t a straight yes or no. Like many other places, Egypt has its fair share of challenges. However, practicing general vigilance, taking preventative measures, and being informed about the local environment can make a huge difference in personal experiences. Always remember to respect local customs, stay alert, and prepare well in advance.