Clinton on Egypt: “Embrace Democratic Norms and Rules”

In a speech to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, Secretary of States Hillary Clinton called on Islamist parties that appeared to make significant inroads in Egypt’s first round of elections last week to “embrace democratic norms and rules” by creating a government that respects the full range of human rights. ”We therefore expect all democratic actors and elected officials to uphold universal human rights, including women’s rights, to allow free religious practice, to promote tolerance and good relations among communities of different faiths, and to support peaceful relations with their neighbors,” Clinton stated. Additionally, Secretary Clinton urged “the Egyptian authorities to ensure that free and fair voting continues through next election rounds and to adhere to their commitments to move toward a new civilian government.”

Additionally, an Associated Press article discusses how the Salafi political parties succeeded in Egypt’s elections, crediting “years of grassroots organizing throughout the country, which gave them a ready-made network of support when they entered politics,” as well as regular TV appearances by party leaders.