This Is the Meal That Sparked a Riot

The Egyptian Bread Riots of 1977, also known as the “Bread Intifada,” were a spontaneous and violent uprising that swept across Egypt on January 18th and 19th.

This wasn’t just about a single meal, but about the affordability of the most fundamental sustenance for the majority of the population. The government’s decision to drastically cut subsidies on basic foodstuffs ignited widespread public anger, rooted in a combination of economic hardship and a perceived betrayal by the state.

Sudden and Drastic Subsidy Cuts

The immediate trigger was the government’s announcement on January 17, 1977, that it would cancel or severely cut state subsidies on essential commodities. These included bread, flour, cooking oil, rice, sugar, and even kerosene. This directly led to rapid and significant price increases for items crucial to daily survival.

IMF and World Bank Pressure

The subsidy cuts were a direct result of conditions imposed by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. Egypt, facing a large national debt and seeking new loans, was pressured to implement austerity measures and economic reforms, including reducing government spending on subsidies, as part of its “Infitah” (open-door) economic policy.

Widespread Poverty

In 1977, a large portion of the Egyptian population, particularly in urban areas, lived in poverty. Many families relied heavily on subsidized goods to make ends meet. The sudden removal of these subsidies meant that basic food items instantly became unaffordable for millions, pushing them further into destitution.

High Unemployment

Compounding the poverty was a significant issue of unemployment, especially among the male population. This meant that many households had no stable income, making them even more vulnerable to price increases and unable to absorb the added cost of essential goods.

Perceived Government Neglect and Corruption

Many Egyptians felt that President Anwar Sadat’s “Infitah” policy primarily benefited a small, wealthy elite, resulting in a visible increase in luxury imports and investments, while the majority struggled. The subsidy cuts were seen as a blatant disregard for the common people’s well-being and a sign of government corruption.

Historical Reliance on Subsidies

Food subsidies had been a cornerstone of Egypt’s social contract for decades, particularly since the Nasser era. The state had long taken responsibility for providing affordable food to its citizens. The abrupt withdrawal of this lifeline was perceived as a betrayal of this social contract and a violation of public trust.

Influx of Workers and Students

The riots were not confined to the very poorest; they quickly gained momentum as factory workers, students, and other segments of the working class joined the protests. Workers often walked out of factories and marched, encouraging others to join, leading to widespread disruption and clashes.

Symbolic Importance of Bread

Bread in Arabic means “life,” and it holds immense cultural and symbolic significance in Egypt. It is the most basic staple, representing sustenance and dignity. The threat to affordable bread was not just an economic issue but a deep affront to the very essence of survival and social justice, igniting a powerful and emotional response.

More Than A Meal

The 1977 bread riots served as a stark reminder of the volatile link between food security and social stability, forcing the Egyptian government to quickly reverse the subsidy cuts.