The Paradox of Freedom of Religion in Post-Revolutionary Egypt

Abstract

This essay highlights the puzzle of the political significance that Article 2 of the Egyptian Constitution, which lists the principles of the Islamic sharia as the main source of legislation, might have. In doing so, the essay traces the historical background of Article 2 in an attempt to show how this Article found its way into Egypt’s Constitutions. Additionally, the essay examines the SCC’s interpretation of Article 2 and how the Court developed a unique methodology to reach a liberal interpretation of it that has been followed by several other Muslim countries. Finally, we will then try to answer the question of whether Article 2 is really applicable in Egypt.