structured 6

Structured response 6

            During the class we have talked about both the successful revolutions and usage of civil society but we have also talked about the failings of civil society, however, I believe Egypt is on the way to a fully unified civil society and a complete democracy if they continue on their path with a few minor changes.

            The Egyptian civil society movement was successful in ousting Mubarak through non-violent protests and civil disobedience but now that a Morsi has come to power will the revolution survive. Morsi recently added more power to the presidency which allows him to circumvent much of the balances surrounded the office of Egyptian presidency, however he has not done this without repercussions. What I think is important to remember before we completely dismiss the revolution as a failure that took one tyrant for another it is important to look at the circumstances surrounding Morsi’s power grab. The Egyptian civil societies had just won a hard felt battle and began to settle down; it took a lot to mobilize the amount of people the first time and now that it has become evident Morsi will try to seize absolute power it will take some time for all the people to come together again. Also Morsi has not yet gained the power and authority that Mubarak had so the people have not yet felt the problem of Morsi’s rule; I mean “hey at least he isn’t killing us”. Another interesting point that may prove to be a fault for the opposition to Morsi’s power is the military.

            When the Egyptian military did nothing to support Mubarak they choose a side the protestors side however, since the Muslim brother hood is such a popular political party will the military choose the same side again? It seems that the military, like last time, could play the decisive role in what happens, if the military decides to back Morsi there will be either a revolution on a violent scale or perhaps the people will continue non-violent protests; either way bringing Morsi out of power is no easy task.

            Now on to the question what should civil society do? As far as removing Morsi, the Egyptian civil society should keep on doing what it is doing; non-violent protests, propaganda, shamming, organizational movements, and the spreading of civil society organizations with a few exceptions. As the president had the majority of support the Egyptian civil society should focus on mobilizing the sectors of society who supported Morse in the election explaining why he needs to be removed immediately before more power grabs can take place. This is also something the Egyptian society should try and do, create rapid mobilization efforts and advocacy groups to demonstrate, non-violently, and to get Morsi removed from power. Although there are some flaws with Egyptian civil society, as there are will all civil societies they have been doing a very good job at mobilizing and unifying society and should continue to that effect but with more ferocity and a new spirit.