Policeman Guarding a Church in Nag Hamadi

The recent killing of six Egyptian Christians on January 6, 2010 – Coptic Christmas Eve – has sent shockwaves through society. While all condemn the murder a flood of theories have emerged to explain why it took place. Nag Hamadi, located 300 miles south of Cairo, is an Upper Egyptian city in an area known for tribal values; this setting is difficult for Cairene analysts to comprehend. ZIVIC Project efforts have sought to collect as many of these analyses as possible, in addition to adding staff reflections. The project is currently considering avenues to encourage social reconciliation and peace in the area.

Copts protesting in Downtown Cairo about Nag Hamadi

Reports:

Violence in Egypt Shows Government Weakness (January 2010)

If I was a Christian/Muslim from Nag Hamadi: Reflections from a Coptic Intellectual (January 2010)

If I was a Priest in Nag Hamadi: Reflections from a Church Building Priest (January 2010)

Nag Hamadi: Cultural Context and Religious Perspective from an Azhari Sheikh from the Region (February 2010)

Church Reaction to Nag Hamadi: Conversation with a Cairo Bishop (January 2010)

Sharing in the Grief of Nag Hamadi: A Church Delegation Led by a Cairo Bishop (February 2010)

Nag Hamadi: A Coptic Demonstration in Cairo (February 2010)

Stubborn Ideologies and Uncertain Details: Reflection on Christian and Muslim Reactions to Nag Hamadi (January 2010)

No Reconciliation without Justice: Punishment for Criminals in Nag Hamadi (January 2010)