The Arab revolutions of 2011 : revolutions of dignity

Abstract

The first half of 2011 witnessed some of the greatest social and political transformations in the Middle East in recent history. Beginning with Tunisia’s protests and ousting of Ben Ali in early January, the momentum of the “Arab Spring” soon spread to Egypt, Yemen and Libya, eventually encompassing most of the Arab world. While these sweeping revolutions throughout the Arab world took many nations by surprise, an examination of political indicators would have told otherwise. An utter lack of democratic practices and a politics of fear long employed by these Arab regimes led to growing resentment, and even hatred, toward the corrupt governments. As some countries are in the process of democratic transition, others continue to struggle against their brutal regimes. It is clear that throughout the region, the rationale supporting these regimes effectively collapsed. At this point, it is critical to understand the timing of the Arab revolutions. It is true that presently a positive end is not in sight for many of these struggling nations. As we have seen, however, change in this region has been momentous and, at times, unexpected. This paper explores the complex dynamic between regime policies, the value of dignity in Arab culture and the speed at which changes occurred.