The National Identity Conference, titled "National Identity: Rooted and Renewed," began on September 21, 2026, at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina in Alexandria, Egypt. The three-day event is under the auspices of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and features a large turnout of ministers, officials, university presidents, thinkers, academics, media professionals, researchers, and youth representatives. The conference aims to discuss national identity issues and develop a vision for the future.
The opening session was attended by high-ranking officials, including Dr. Hussein Issa, Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs; Dr. Abdelaziz Qanswa, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research; and Dr. Khaled Foda, Assistant to the President for Local Development and head of the conference. The session included a documentary film on "Egyptian Identity: Rooted and Renewed," followed by a presentation of the conference's main themes and issues to be discussed over the next three days.
Dr. Hussein Issa emphasized that the conference approaches national identity from a new perspective, combining "rooted roots" and "renewed vision," reflecting the need to preserve national constants while adapting to a rapidly changing world. He stressed that national identity is a fundamental pillar of social cohesion and stability, and that the report prepared by the Bibliotheca Alexandrina highlights the social pressures and challenges affecting it.
The conference features around 450 young participants from various governorates, alongside a selection of experts, thinkers, writers, media professionals, academics, and officials. The event aims to expand the scope of participation in the discussion on identity issues and develop a comprehensive program to enhance societal awareness, support youth, and preserve social cohesion.
Dr. Abdelaziz Qanswa stated that Egyptian identity is a comprehensive system that begins with the family and extends to schools, universities, cultural and religious institutions, and the media. He emphasized that preserving identity does not contradict openness to the world but requires preparing new generations to deal with modern developments with awareness and confidence while preserving national constants.
The conference discusses several issues related to Egyptian identity, including its development, challenges, and the impact of digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and social media. The event also explores the cultural, social, and economic dimensions of national identity and aims to develop a sustainable and applicable agenda.
The conference is set to conclude with the announcement of the "Alexandria Document on National Identity," which aims to be a foundation for a sustainable and implementable agenda that extends to schools, universities, governorates, and community institutions. The document is expected to provide a roadmap for preserving and promoting Egyptian identity in the face of modern challenges.
Key points
- The conference brings together 450 young participants and a range of experts to discuss national identity issues.
- The event aims to develop a comprehensive program to enhance societal awareness and support youth.
- The conference concludes with the announcement of the "Alexandria Document on National Identity."
