2014 in Egypt
The year 2014 was a pivotal one in Egypt, marked by significant political, social, and economic developments following the 2013 overthrow of President Mohamed Morsi.
Political Landscape: The year began under the interim presidency of Adly Mansour. A new constitution, drafted after Morsi's removal, was approved in a referendum in January with a reported 98% approval rate, although with concerns about voter turnout and fairness. Presidential elections were held in May, resulting in a landslide victory for Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, the former Minister of Defense and the leading figure in Morsi's ouster. Sisi's victory cemented the military's return to power and marked the beginning of his presidency.
Security Situation: The security situation remained volatile throughout 2014. The government continued its crackdown on the Muslim Brotherhood, which was designated a terrorist organization. Attacks by Islamist militants, primarily in the Sinai Peninsula, increased in frequency and intensity, targeting security forces and government infrastructure. This led to increased military operations in the Sinai and heightened security measures throughout the country.
Economic Developments: The Egyptian economy continued to struggle in 2014, hampered by political instability and security concerns. The government sought financial assistance from Gulf states and implemented austerity measures to address the budget deficit. Tourism, a vital sector of the Egyptian economy, remained significantly affected by the ongoing instability. Efforts were made to attract foreign investment and stimulate economic growth, but progress was slow.
Social and Cultural Events: 2014 witnessed a continuation of social and cultural divisions, with increased restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly. Human rights organizations raised concerns about the government's suppression of dissent and the detention of journalists and activists. Despite the challenges, there were also efforts to promote cultural initiatives and preserve Egypt's rich heritage.