Mohamed Diab directs the movie Cairo 678. This film depicts the complex, persistent sexual harassment issue in Egyptian society. Diab portrays this through the stories of three women from different backgrounds, giving a voice to a struggle often silenced in Arab culture.
The experiences of Fayza, Seba, and Nelly encountered harassment in different forms and came together to fight for justice and women all over Egypt. Their diverse experiences show that harassment isn't specific to one class or social relationships; it affects the whole community. Further, this film captures the personal experiences of the women and society's reactions to their experiences. Diab perfectly depicts the backlash women face when speaking out about their harassment, especially sexual harassment.
Sexual harassment is a deeply rooted issue with many profound implications and nuances for Arab societies that prioritize honor, modesty, abstinence, virginity, and unequal gender dynamics, which can further complicate discussions around this topic. This issue is a widespread problem within the country. In 2013, the UN reported that 99% of Egyptian women reported experiencing harassment. This statistic emphasizes the need for system action and shifts in public perception of the harassment of women.
This movie had a tremendous emotional impact on me and raised many questions as a viewer. Questions like victim blaming, the silence surrounding harassment, and the bravery needed to challenge societal norms set against women are central themes in the film. I found Diab's portrayal of these women's stories compelling, as it mirrors the problematic path many women face in trying to fit their societal roles while protecting their rights and safety. I've experienced this firsthand when visiting Egypt, where men's behavior is often dismissed simply because it's so common. As women, we're expected to accept it quietly, without reacting. While I wasn't physically assaulted, the vulgar catcalling and harassment made me feel uncomfortable in my skin. Often, men's actions are turned back on the women, claiming they "should have covered up" or "were asking for it."
Cairo 678 confronts the harassment issue in a raw and realistic way but also creates conversations about change in Arab culture. Through the stories of three women, the film challenged viewers to reflect on the complex dynamics hindering Arab women's safety and freedoms. The creation of this movie has influenced the necessary encouragement of both awareness and action, contributing to cultural shifts that extend beyond Cairo and Egypt