Hala Mahdy | Journalist from Cairo

Mahdy’s job is very important at a time when transparency is a rare commodity and transformation is turbulent and confusing. She looks to Europe and Germany in particular as a source of inspiration for a more progressive and democratic future for Egypt.

"Europe sets an example for liberal thought and democracy," she says, "governments there respect and protect the rights of minorities, which is something that we also hope for in Egypt." Mahdy witnessed the start of the political revolution in Egypt in 2011, which began as an uprising for the rule of law, freedom and democracy. Since then the path to stability and democracy in Egypt has been difficult but people like Mahdy who believe in Egypt’s future remain undiscouraged. "We aren’t depressed when faced by all of the obstacles that stand in the way of our revolution," she says, "rather we are strengthened in our desire to realize our rights and our freedom."

While freedom of the press is currently a problem in Egypt, there are new ways for people to express themselves online and with smaller news outlets. "Private broadcasters and Facebook and Twitter aren’t as easy to manipulate and control," she says. To be a good journalist Mahdy considers an open mind and understanding of other viewpoints, cultures and values to be very important. "The right for freedom of information and expression must be allowed without limitation or exception all over the world," she says.

Mahdy’s values embody the journalistic integrity that DW stands for. She says that foreign media like DW help to make her a part of the outside world and help people understand each other. "Dialogue is a sacred human right with which we can avoid conflict, promote understanding and maybe even begin to control hate, racism and conflict." Mahdy knows the journey to peace will be difficult but there can be no other destination.

Text: Wesley Rahn
Edited by: Elena Isayenko