Written by Don Byrd
A new poll from the Pew Global Attitudes Project finds some change among Egyptians since last year’s questioning. One thing that has not moved, however is the question of religious freedom. 50% say it’s very important for religious parties to be part of government, the same percentage answering that way a year ago. 38% say religious freedom is very important, compared to 36% last year, still far fewer than believe in press freedom (60%) or free speech (62%). The number who describe an entwined religion and politics today has risen significantly.
A growing number of Egyptians sees Islam as playing a major role in the political life of the country – 66% currently compared with 47% in 2010. For the most part, those who believe Islam is playing a large role see this as good for the country, but more disagree with that view this year than last.
