Question 34

The series of anti-government protests, uprisings, and armed rebellions across the Arab world, collectively known as the 'Arab Spring', famously began in Tunisia in December 2010. The catalyst for the movement was the self-immolation of Mohamed Bouazizi, a street vendor, in protest against harassment and confiscation of his wares by municipal officials. This act sparked widespread demonstrations against corruption, poverty, and authoritarian rule, leading to the swift overthrow of Tunisia's long-serving President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali. The success of the Tunisian revolution inspired similar movements and protests across other countries in the Middle East and North Africa.