The Resurgence of Jizya and How It Affects Coptic Christians In Egypt
Coptic Christians in Egypt have faced pressures and threats regarding the payment of Jizya, a historical tax that non-Muslims were required to pay under Islamic rule. Although the formal imposition of Jizya was abolished, reports indicate that some Copts, particularly in certain regions, have recently been coerced into paying this tax by Islamist groups.
Jizya was historically imposed on non-muslims as a tax for protection and exemption from military service. This practice was formalized during the early Islamic Period, particularly under the Umayyad and Abbasid caliphates, where it served as both a financial obligation and a symbol of the subordinate status of non-muslims in an Islamic State. The tax was seen as a way of maintaining social order and to reinforce Islamic Authority over conquered populations.
The formal imposition of Jizya began to decline in the 19th century, particularly with reforms initiated by the Ottoman Empire and influenced by European Powers. The Hatt-i Humayan decree of 1856 abolished Jizya in many territories, granting non-Muslims greater rights and protections. This period marked a significant shift towards modern governance models that emphasized equality among citizens, regardless of religion.
In recent decades, there has been a resurgence of Islamist movements in Egypt that seek to reclaim what they consider to be Islamic identity and heritage. These groups often advocate for a return to traditional Islamic laws, which includes enforcement of Jizya as a means of asserting Muslim dominance over non-Muslim communities. This revival is partly fueled by socio-political unrest and a desire among some factions to impose stricter interpretations of Islam.
Coptic Christians in Egypt have historically been marginalized, facing discrimination and violence. The perceived need for protection has led some Islamist groups to exploit this vulnerability by demanding payments similar to Jizya, often under threats of violence or social ostracism. Such practices serve to reinforce their status as second class citizens within a predominantly Muslim society.
In Dalga, a village in Upper Egypt, following the political unrest after the removal of President Mohamed Morsi from power, Islamist groups forced Coptic Christians to pay Jizya. According to various sources, including reports from Coptic Solidarity and personal accounts documented by activists and journalists, Copts were required to pay sums of money daily as a form of Jizya to avoid attacks or to live safely in the village. Christians who refused to or were unable to pay faced threats, violence and were sometimes forced to flee.
While the formal imposition of Jizya is not recognized by the Egyptian State, there are reports of similar coercive practices by extremist factions targeting non-Muslims, particularly Christians. These groups often threaten violence or social ostracism against those who refuse to comply with their demands.
The resurgence of such practices reflects ongoing discrimination against religious minorities in Egypt. Although the government isn’t officially involved, the actions of these non-state actors create a climate where Copts and other non-Muslims may feel pressured to pay these taxes for protection and acceptance within their communities.
This situation highlights the precarious position of religious minorities in the country and the challenges they face regarding safety and religious freedom.
