Columbia International Affairs Online: Policy Briefs

CIAO DATE: 01/2011

Deciphering Egypt's Transition: What do Egypt's botched elections mean for the EU?

Timo Behr

December 2010

Finnish Institute for International Affairs

Abstract

Egypt has arrived at a crossroads. After almost three decades in power, the Mubarak era is coming to an end. With President Hosni Mubarak’s health reportedly deteriorating, the stage is set for an uncertain transition. Egypt’s botched parliamentary elections have been the first act in this succession drama, paving the way for next year’s decisive presidential elections. As the Middle East’s traditional powerhouse, the outcome of this transition process is going to have important repercussions that will be felt far beyond Egypt’s borders.