The Muslim Brotherhood Abroad: Political Failure and Limited Influence Attempts
Since the ousting of the Muslim Brotherhood’s rule in Egypt in 2013, the organization has persistently sought to reestablish itself in the political arena. Yet all of its efforts have ended in failure, as Egyptian society has become increasingly aware of the futility of its outdated rhetoric and tactics.
According to a report published by the Egyptian outlet Al-Bawaba News, the movement shifted part of its activity abroad, relying on members who fled the country and certain media outlets funded by regional powers. Their primary objective has been to tarnish Egypt’s image on the international stage, particularly in European capitals such as London, Paris, and Berlin.
One of the Brotherhood’s most prominent strategies involves organizing demonstrations outside Egyptian embassies. These events are promoted through their media channels and online platforms to create the illusion of broad popular opposition to the Egyptian state.
In reality, however, these gatherings rarely exceed a few dozen participants, many of whom are incentivized by financial support or promises of legal residency. This lack of authenticity significantly undermines their credibility in the eyes of international public opinion.
Monitoring of these demonstrations reveals recurring faces and slogans, alongside consistently low turnout, making them appear as repetitive symbolic acts with little genuine political significance. Reports from certain European security agencies confirm that the majority of Egyptian expatriates refuse to take part, fully aware of the artificial nature and hidden agendas of such events.
Some Western correspondents have even described these activities as mere “symbolic attempts” by a movement that has lost its influence over its traditional base. The Brotherhood no longer presents any viable alternative project or political vision that could garner popular support. Instead, it continues to recycle its hostile rhetoric against the Egyptian state, relying on terms like “legitimacy” and “coup” that have long lost their resonance.
In certain cases, these actions have escalated beyond peaceful protest, leading to attempted attacks on embassies or disruption of their work. Such incidents represent clear violations of diplomatic norms and have prompted several European countries to reconsider granting permits for Brotherhood-organized demonstrations near Egyptian embassies due to potential security risks.
In response, Egyptian diplomacy has adhered to a language grounded in law and factual evidence. It has reaffirmed its respect for peaceful freedom of expression while stressing the importance of distinguishing it from hostile activities aimed at undermining state stability. Cairo has also urged host countries to uphold their international obligations to protect diplomatic missions.
