User talk:Citadelite

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[edit] Human rights in Egypt

Hi Citadelite,

I know that human rights is a sensitive topic in Egypt. People often feel attacked when the subject is broached. Trust me when I tell you that in the larger scheme of things, it does not cast Egypt in a bad light. It shows that despite living under an undeniable dictatorship, the political culture is still healthy enough to be self-critical. It is not airing dirty laundry for the sake of airing dirty laundry--it comes from a place of deep concern, not only for those violated, but for the well-being of the country in general. It shows a desire to improve because it hurts more to know that these things happen than simply other people finding out about them. The fact that these violations can fill page after page after page is what really reflects badly on the country. I'd much rather show the deep concern that many people have about these events than try to sweep things under the rug like countries with much worse human rights records, but try to project an image of the "happy family"-type of fiction. I'd rather see a large section giving snippets of what really goes on than leave it up for speculation. If the articles on those countries won't even give a decent amount of coverage to the abuses that take place in their midst, then I feel sorry for them and those who made that decision. People who can't handle the truth never change, and that's why things are probably so horrible in the first place. I'm at least glad to know that Egypt cares enough about its citizens when their basic human rights are violated, and that its culture is healthy and mature enough to talk about it more openly until it stops. The other obvious thing is that human rights are universal, and that's why others have a right to know and be just as concerned.

So... that said, I wouldn't disagree that these two sections could perhaps use some trimming down by moving some of that information to the main articles on these topics. I had been thinking about that for a while. As long as the most critical details are not left out or "sanitized" for an audience, I'm sure we can work something out. Best, — Zerida 10:12, 10 February 2008 (UTC)

Yes, it's once again a very exciting time for Egypt; all the mabrouks in the world are in order. The country could definitely use times like these right now. What you said was a bit surreal for me because I actually thought of the movie Hina Maysara when I was writing you my last message (though I've yet to see it). I would also add Amr Adeeb to that list. Don't know if you've seen this very heated Adeeb interview with the director and cast of the film. It's really quite à propos of this discussion. As you might guess, I'm a bit more on the director's side in terms of open discussion, even though I am an Adeeb fan.

With regard to the article, I think the main problem is the religion section, which is beginning to ramble. You might want to bring up any proposals you have on the article's discussion page so that other regular editors can weigh in as well. In the meantime, I'm going to see if I can solicit a third opinion from Wikiproject Human Rights. They might have useful suggestions of their own. Cheers, — Zerida 03:18, 12 February 2008 (UTC)

<blush> Oh gosh, I hope so ;-)

Incidentally, I don't think film ratings in Europe are as stringent as those in the US, or at least that's what I've heard. Egypt could use some more regulation in that sense and less censorship, I agree. Can't wait to see the movie myself.

Good luck with your work, I know exactly what you mean <sigh> The great thing about Wikipedia on the other hand is that there is no deadline, so feel free to take your time. — Zerida 04:24, 14 February 2008 (UTC)