ABSTRACT
This chapter explores how student activism in Egypt influences contentious politics within a polity, and conversely how the dynamics of contention within an authoritarian regime can influence student activism on campus. Findings from in-depth interviews and focus groups, as well as a reading of historical records of student activism, demonstrate two trends. First, when political opportunities permit, student activism is able to transcend campuses and plays an essential role in mobilizing citizens at large. Second, when political opportunities are limited, students focus on university-level demands or remain docile. This was traced to moments of limited political opportunity—due to an increase in perceived threat from the regime as well as reduced public support for activism.
