Egypt is struggling with a growing problem of armed militancy in the northern region of the Sinai Peninsula. In the last few years, the government has so far largely focused its attempts to tackle this issue with a narrow view of security that gives prominence to solutions based on conventional violent counter-terrorism tactics. This has not remedied the problem or lessened the security threats. Instead, it has contributed to the strengthening of violent actors operating in the area. The only long-term solution is for the Egyptian government to adopt a broadened view of security that takes into account the root causes of armed militancy instead of only treating what are arguably just symptoms of larger problems. Based on that, the government should apply a comprehensive strategy focusing on economic development, the inclusion of Bedouin inhabitants into political and societal structures and ending the repressive policies – especially collective punishment measures against civilians – that only serve to alienate the historically marginalized North Sinai population. EMERGENCE OF AN INSURGENCY AND THE GOVERNMENT’S RESPONSE The fall of President Hosni Mubarak from power in February 2011 destabilized his regime and temporarily weakened the state…
