The National Identity conference, titled "National Identity: Rooted and Renewed," kicked off on September 21, 2026, at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina in Alexandria, Egypt. The event is being held under the auspices of Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and will run for three days until September 23. The conference is a collaborative effort between the Bibliotheca Alexandrina and several Egyptian ministries, including Higher Education and Scientific Research, Youth and Sports, Culture, and the Governorate of Alexandria.
Lieutenant General Dr. Ahmed El-Sharbini, advisor to the director of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, stated that the conference reflects the image of Egyptian society, with youth representing the largest bloc. He noted that three generations of researchers, combining experience, maturity, and youthful enthusiasm, are participating in the event. The conference features 14 scientific papers prepared by these researchers, covering various aspects of national identity.
The conference papers are divided into three main themes: diagnosing the reality of national identity, discussing the risks and pressures facing it, and exploring the role of institutions and policies in shaping and promoting national identity. The papers are based on studies examining transformations in Egyptian society, digital addiction among youth, and a field study involving young people, teachers, and parents.
El-Sharbini emphasized that the conference is part of a project aimed at building the Egyptian human being and addressing regional and international risks that seek to dismantle and reshape national identity in the region. He stressed that Egyptian national identity is rooted and extended throughout history and is not in crisis but faces ongoing pressures.
The advisor to the Bibliotheca Alexandrina director highlighted several key challenges, including surrounding conflicts, global system transformations, digital revolution, external targeting, and transnational visions. He also mentioned the decline of Arabic language skills among young people and weak political and partisan participation and social trust.
El-Sharbini cited indicators of pride in belonging and military service, which ranged from 92% to 98%. The conference brings together a diverse group of participants, offering a platform for discussion and debate on the complexities of national identity in Egypt.
The event aims to promote a deeper understanding of Egyptian national identity and its role in shaping the country's future. By engaging multiple generations of researchers and stakeholders, the conference seeks to foster a more nuanced discussion on the challenges and opportunities facing national identity in Egypt.
Key points
- The conference features 14 scientific papers prepared by three generations of researchers.
- Egyptian national identity faces ongoing pressures but remains rooted and extended throughout history.
- The event is part of a project aimed at building the Egyptian human being and addressing regional and international risks.
