Impressive rise in political literacy in Egypt – British ambassador

Thursday 02-05-2013 PM 01:44
Impressive rise in political literacy in Egypt – British ambassador
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British Ambassador to Egypt James Watt said on Thursday, ahead of the World Press Freedom Day, that the rise of political literacy in Egypt is changing politics.

"The 'liberation of minds' is, in my view, the most potent driver of democracy," Watt said on the foreign office’s website on Thursday.

This Friday, May 3, marks the 20th anniversary of the World Press Freedom Day as set by the United Nations.

Watt argues in the entry that this year's theme, which focuses on journalists' safety, is not one of the top concerns for Egyptians.

“I think Egypt has a deep national culture of accepting the right of individuals to hold and express their own views – and of being able to argue back,” Watt said.

The British ambassador considered two developments as the most important in Egypt since the 2011 uprising.

First he cited, "the way in which citizens have become far better at understanding the political questions involved in the transition to democracy." He cautioned, arguing, however, that Egypt still has a long way ahead of it.

The second development he spoke of is how electronic media has made criticizing mainstream media easier, paving the way for deeper and more varied analyses.

He expressed concern, however, that while electronic media is playing a significant role, "unverified nonsense" has become easier to spread.

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