Protestations et mobilisations paysannes en Égypte : des voix qui comptent ?

The most widespread analyses of the Egyptian revolution have neglected the role played by farmers in the crystallization of the popular revolt which led to Hosni Mubarak?s downfall. Yet over the past twenty years, the Egyptian countryside has been wracked by violent conflicts and protest movements which intensified when the insurrection started in January 2011. Until the army regained control of power, farmers continued their collective action in various ways, centering their claims on access to land and resources, while also actively taking part in the revived union movement. However, in spite of some traction with political forces in the opposition, the fellahs? voices have hardly been heard in post-revolution Egypt. The political configuration and the power struggle which emerged from the post-revolution elections, as well as the fragmentation and politicization of the farmers? unions have hampered coordinated actions defending the fellahs? interests. This reshuffling has prevented this social group from becoming a political force to be reckoned with by public authorities.