Contextualization of the phenomenon

The occurrence of repeated demonstrations resulting from dissatisfaction with their respective governments within the populations of several Arab States came to be know as "The Arab Spring". Although some have criticised the coining of the phrase there is little doubt that it refers to the uprisings throughout the Arab world after Mohamed Bouazizi’s self-immolation in Tunisia on 17th December, 2010.

The unrest amongst populations within the Arab States had several different causes, namely economic instability, unemployment, unjustified raises in price levels, curtailment of fundamental rights, political persecution, and deprivation of human dignity and conditions in general. One particular feature of the uprisings throughout the Arab world was the influence of social media - the popular demonstrations were usually led by young people organized through social networks.

The uprisings, which initially aimed for certain specific reforms, turned into passionate demonstrations of people's desire to make profound regime changes in their States’ administrations. Several Middle Eastern and Northern African nations entered into confrontations with their governments, which had been refusing to grant civil and political rights to major sections of these societies for decades.

Tunisia, the birthplace of the Arab Spring, was the first nation to go through an electoral process. Jbeli Hamadi, Secretary-General of the moderate party Ennahda, emerged victorious out of the 96 elections of 23rd October 2011. Along with Tunisia, on July 7th 2012 Libya also staged elections and elected moderates to the government.