Norm and Dissidence: Egyptian Shiʿa between Security Approaches and Geopolitical Stakes

To cite this publication: Stéphane Valter, “Norm and Dissidence: Egyptian Shiʿa between Security Approaches and Geopolitical Stakes,” CIRS Occasional Paper no. 23 (Doha, Qatar: Center for International and Regional Studies, 2019).

This paper presents a study of Egyptian Shiʿism by providing historical context as well as a focus on actual or current issues. The study includes a historical overview of local Shiʿism (Fatimid period, late nineteenth century, 1940s–1960s, and contemporary period); Shiʿi institutions and personalities; the situation following Egypt’s 2011 revolution; the hectic one-year government of the Muslim Brotherhood (2012–2013); President al-Sisi’s authoritarian takeover; and, finally, an exploration of the current geopolitical stakes, focusing mainly on the rivalry between Saudi Arabia and Iran over religious hegemony.