Tunisia’s ‘Arab Spring ’ still not complete
Tunisia has long been a model Arab country. Since its independence from France in 1956, Tunisia has led the region in promoting economic development, free public education and equality for women. Millions of tourists from Europe and the Arab world flock to Tunisia to enjoy its famed hospitality and discover a history dating back thousands of years.
Yet behind this facade of success were repression, corruption and nepotism traced to longtime President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali. Poverty and unemployment among young college graduates also caused the discontent that led to demonstrations after a street vendor set himself on fire in December 2010 to call attention to his need for a job.
That tragedy gave rise to the “Arab Spring ” protests against oppressive regimes across the region. In Tunisia, the frustration and yearning for freedom exploded. Chants of “Ben Ali de
gage” (Get out Ben Ali) and “Freedom” and “Democracy” forced the president to flee in January 2011, ending his 23-year rule.
Today, nearly six years after our revolution, Tunisia is the only country in the region where the “Arab Spring ” brought about real change. We are the only country with a democratically elected constitutional assembly, and we Tunisians are enjoying free expression as we try to sustain a democratic system.
Many challenges remain. The new government has failed to pursue needed changes, but we Tunisians are counting on our new freedom of speech to prevent a return to a police state.
Before the revolution, all the media were controlled by the regime and served as a tool for Ben Ali’s propaganda. During the uprising, the media turned against him and gave voice to the people, especially through social media. This remains the most important gain from the revolution.
A second major benefit has been political freedom — the right to establish different political parties and be nominated to serve in the government. For now, all the political parties are in a coalition and none is keeping a separate identity.
At a time when our nation is so fragile, we also are suffering from terrorism like France, Belgium and Turkey. But when an attack occurs, it becomes a unifying moment: People stand together with the army and government to fight for stability.
All of this upheaval leaves us in a constant state of confusion. The skeptics have given up their hope for change, while the optimists still strive for freedom and equality.
For the government, the top priorities are improving security to deter terrorism and boosting investment and tourism to expand the economy.
When we look closely at the situation, we feel bitter that things are going so slowly, yet we also believe our small country will overcome the obstacles. Most Tunisians remain confident that change will continue, but it will take time.
After so many years of colonial rule, dictatorship and economic suffering, tolerating unstable political circumstances is part of the recovery process. Tunisian history dates back 8,000 years before Christ and has witnessed many civilizations that include Berbers, Vandals, Punics, Romans, Arabs, Spaniards and Turks. That has resulted in a broad cultural mix that has shaped Tunisia’s unique personality.
Our ongoing revolution is just one stop in this rich history.