Arab Spring

About

The Arab Spring was a wave of protests and uprisings that swept across the Arab world in the early 2010s. It began in Tunisia with the self-immolation of Mohamed Bouazizi, which sparked widespread unrest against authoritarian regimes. The movement quickly spread to other countries, including Egypt, Libya, and Syria, driven by grievances over corruption, human rights abuses, and economic hardship. Social media played a significant role in mobilizing and organizing protests, allowing activists to bypass state-controlled media and connect with international audiences. The use of platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube enabled rapid dissemination of information and helped galvanize public support. In countries with high internet penetration, such as Egypt and Tunisia, social media was crucial for organizing protests and spreading awareness. However, in regions with lower internet access, traditional media and word of mouth also played important roles. While social media amplified the movement, it was the underlying socio-political conditions that ultimately fueled the Arab Spring. The protests resulted in the ousting of several leaders, but the long-term outcomes varied significantly across the region.