Grand Egyptian Museum a 'symbol' to be shared with world • FRANCE 24 English

Key Concepts

• Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM): A new, massive museum in Egypt dedicated to ancient Egyptian civilization.
• Arab Spring: A series of anti-government protests and uprisings that swept across the Middle East and North Africa starting in late 2010.
• President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi: The current President of Egypt, who has prioritized the completion of the GEM.
• UNESCO: The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, involved in the GEM project.
• Egyptian Antiquities: Artifacts and historical objects from ancient Egypt, many of which are housed in museums worldwide.
• Nefertiti Bust: A famous bust of an ancient Egyptian queen, currently housed in the Neues Museum in Berlin, Germany, which many Egyptians wish to see returned.
• Tourism Economy: The contribution of tourism to Egypt's national wealth and employment.

Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) Opening and Significance

The opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) is described as an exciting event, the culmination of a project that has been in development for three decades, with active project work beginning over 20 years ago. The mood among Egyptians is one of national pride, with a strong desire for their nation, economy, and lives to progress. The GEM is presented as a symbol of this ambition and a message from the government, aiming to be a "museum of humanity."

Inauguration Ceremony and International Attendance

The opening ceremony is a significant global event, with nearly 80 heads of state, royalty, and representatives from around the world in attendance. Notable attendees mentioned include the King of Spain and the Prime Minister of Luxembourg. The ceremony commenced with a concert featuring over 200 musicians, with a majority being Egyptian, underscoring Egypt's desire to share its heritage. The event is designed to be inclusive, with screens set up globally for people to watch, emphasizing that it's not just for Egyptians but for all who are interested. The arrival of figures like the former Grand Duke of Luxembourg, Henri, and the Prime Minister of Luxembourg, Luc Frieden, is noted. President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi is a central figure, with the opening occurring during a period of geopolitical challenges.

Geopolitical Challenges and Project Delays

The path to opening the GEM has been fraught with difficulties, particularly due to the geopolitical landscape. The project initially saw hope around 2010-2012, but the Arab Spring in 2011 caused significant disruptions. The Arab Spring, while bringing hope for freedom, dignity, and economic improvement, also led to a "rupture in the functioning of many things in the country," halting progress on projects like the GEM. It took time for the country to regain a functional government and get back on track.

Presidential Commitment and UNESCO's Role

According to Mr. Lazareni, recently appointed Director of UNESCO, the most significant advancements for the GEM have occurred in the past six or seven years. This progress is attributed to a personal commitment and intention by President el-Sisi to prioritize and complete the project as soon as he took power.

Scale and Scope of the GEM

The GEM is described as a colossal undertaking, spanning almost half a million square meters. It comprises not only galleries but also an extensive conservation center, highlighting its immense scale.

Significance for Ordinary Egyptians

For ordinary Egyptians, the GEM represents a profound sense of pride. They have witnessed the theft and displacement of many of their precious antiquities to museums worldwide, with particular demand for the return of artifacts like the Bust of Nefertiti. The GEM provides a space to house and showcase their heritage, allowing them to preserve their history without external representation. It is recognized as the largest museum in the world dedicated to a single civilization. Egyptians view it as a way to connect with their past achievements and leverage that knowledge and heritage to build for the future.

Economic Impact and Tourism Expectations

The GEM is expected to have a significant positive impact on Egypt's economy, particularly its tourism sector, which currently accounts for approximately 8% of the country's wealth. Before the revolution, Egypt was receiving around 15 million tourists annually. Following a substantial decline post-revolution, the country has been gradually recovering. The GEM is anticipated to boost tourism by an additional 5 million visitors annually, with expectations that the project will continue to create employment opportunities.

Conclusion

The Grand Egyptian Museum's opening marks a monumental achievement for Egypt, symbolizing national pride, a commitment to preserving heritage, and a strategic investment in the country's economic future through tourism. Despite decades of planning and significant geopolitical hurdles, the project's completion, driven by presidential will and international collaboration, is poised to redefine Egypt's cultural landscape and its global standing.