In Egypt, where my research is focused, I have seen plenty of trouble in and out of the citadel. There are legions of young men who can't afford to get married, because marriage has become a very expensive proposition. They are expected to bear the burden of costs in married life, but they can't find jobs.

Shereen El Feki’s quote highlights the economic challenges facing many young men in Egypt, particularly in regard to marriage. She points out that marriage has become an expensive proposition, with high financial expectations placed on men. These young men are expected to cover the costs associated with married life, yet they struggle to find jobs or stable income, making it increasingly difficult for them to fulfill the traditional financial role required in marriage. The quote touches on the deep intersection between gender, economics, and social expectations in Egyptian society.

El Feki’s words point to the societal pressure on men to take on the financial burden of marriage, despite facing economic barriers such as unemployment and underemployment. This creates a catch-22 where young men are trapped in a cycle of economic uncertainty, unable to marry because they cannot meet the financial demands that are culturally expected of them. The economic strain of marriage has broader implications on social stability and personal well-being, as the inability to marry may lead to frustration, social alienation, and pressure to conform to an ideal that is out of reach.

The issue El Feki raises also speaks to the broader gender dynamics in many societies, where men are often expected to provide for their families, while women’s roles may be more focused on household responsibilities. This imbalance in expectations and economic realities can lead to frustration and reinforce societal inequalities. Her statement sheds light on how gender roles and economic challenges intersect, creating barriers for young people striving for the traditional milestones of adulthood.

Originating from El Feki’s research on sexuality and gender issues in the Arab world, the quote reflects her focus on how social, cultural, and economic factors shape personal relationships and public policy. As a scholar and journalist, El Feki has explored the tensions between modernity and tradition, particularly how young people navigate changing expectations in the face of economic difficulty. Her work calls attention to the ways economic hardship and social structures can shape the lives of individuals, especially in relation to marriage, a key social institution.