These days mark the fifty-sixth anniversary of the passing of President Gamal Abdel Nasser, the Arab leader who spearheaded a pioneering and unique experiment, an icon of freedom, independence, and social justice, aimed at creating a comprehensive renaissance in the Arab world. This movement began in Egypt and its effects spread to encompass larger and wider geographical areas, bringing about political, social, economic, and cultural changes in the Arab world. This created a profound emotional connection between the people and Gamal Abdel Nasser, both as a person representing one of the most important historical Arab leaders, and through the successes of his comprehensive renaissance project, which people experienced firsthand and which made a real difference in their lives at that time.
This important experience compels us to consider the future of the Arab world and how to revitalize it within a comprehensive civilizational project, rather than simply reliving historical events. These events have become a model for those dedicated individuals who feel a sense of responsibility, prompting them to study the Nasserist experience, so to speak, and attempt to reintroduce it to the Arab reality, particularly concerning its pan-Arab goals, most importantly solidarity and unity. At the popular level, raising the standard of living for the Arab citizen and establishing a prosperous society was one of the continuous endeavors that Nasser pursued. This led to land reform, the restructuring of national companies, banks, and factories, and the allocation of high-level positions to local citizens, free from foreign influence. It also encompassed the launch of comprehensive industrialization, the beginnings of the Arab nuclear program, and the construction of the Aswan High Dam.
Most importantly, it involved building the Arab individual, connecting them to the higher goals set forth by the state, represented by its president. Through this connection and unity with the state, this individual felt a sense of belonging and trust in their homeland as they transitioned from foreign exploitation to independence. Therefore, they believed they were part of a comprehensive process aimed at catching up with global development, making up for lost time, and securing their place in the future.
With Gamal Abdel Nasser, the Arabs rediscovered their nationalism and reinterpreted their past. Here we are, fifty-six years after his passing, and we must say:
Everything related to him, both as a person and as a project, sparks dialogue, debate, and numerous discussions. All of this undoubtedly proves that it was a significant historical experience, opening up a wealth of discourse and renewed questions about democracy, reform, social justice, civil society, Arab nationalism, unity, and religion. These are all issues whose questions continue to resonate in our societies, and they remain questions of the future as long as the biggest question remains unanswered: Why did the Arabs fall behind while others progressed? Perhaps this is what makes Gamal Abdel Nasser live on with us despite his death.
Dr. Adel Reda