Conducting any grassroots movement within the Arab world seemed implausible due to the tight control exerted by Arab leaders over their citizens. The apparent movements, be it demonstrations or rallies seemingly in favor of these regimes, were orchestrated as part of intelligence schemes aimed at bolstering particular agendas or fostering the illusion of widespread approval for rulers seeking to retain power. These actions were meticulously monitored by security services, to the extent that even the slogans voiced were often supplied by the intelligence apparatus of these regimes.
In contrast, in countries with vast freedoms and established democracies, peaceful political transitions occur without any bloodshed. A new leader seamlessly steps into the international political arena, often following the trajectory set by their predecessor, as these nations typically plan for long-term stability, sometimes spanning a century. The incoming ruler is expected to adhere to these established plans unless faced with emergencies such as war or economic downturns that impact the nation’s economy. Domestically, laws undergo partial revisions to align with global developments, a process influenced by changes in government, which are determined through elections by the populace.
The discussion above encapsulates the aspirations of Arab youth—a longing for the opportunity to select a leader who truly represents them on the global stage and is empowered to make pivotal decisions impacting their nations. They dream of a reality where they can choose their governing bodies through democratic means, where power transitions occur peacefully through the ballot box.
At the end of 2010 in Tunisia, following the self-immolation of Mohamed Bouazizi in response to the confiscation of his vegetable cart by policewoman Fadia Hamdi, a significant uprising occurred. This event served as the initial catalyst marking the beginning of the end for an extended period of authoritarian rule, the stifling of freedoms, and the silencing of dissent across numerous Arab nations in the years to come.
Tunisians mobilized in large-scale demonstrations, demanding the removal of the ruling regime led by the ousted Tunisian President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali, who had governed the nation for 23 years.
Just eight days after the Tunisian president’s departure, the Egyptian revolution erupted, spearheaded by the country’s youth who congregated and initiated a sit-in at Cairo’s Tahrir Square. The longstanding rule of Mohamed Hosni Mubarak, who had governed Egypt for 29 years, swiftly came to an end.
In mid-March of 2011, the Syrian revolution was ignited by children who inscribed anti-regime slogans on walls in the city of Daraa. This marked the onset of widespread demonstrations throughout Syrian territories.
Subsequent to these initial acts, peaceful protests ensued, with coordination groups being established and managed by young activists across various regions.
Regarding the pivotal role of youth in the Syrian revolution, it becomes evident that the initial organizers of the protests, as well as those who later took up arms, were predominantly young individuals in their prime. This underscores the indispensable contribution of youth to the revolution, without whom Syrians would not have dared to envision liberation from a regime that had maintained its grip on power for over fifty years.
Discussing the arming of these young men, there is consensus that while the regime on one side, actively opposed the uprising, there existed a supportive force eagerly anticipating such a development. It is conceivable that the regime’s security apparatus played a significant role in facilitating the arming of these initially peaceful youth. This strategy potentially provided the regime with a pretext before the international community to employ force, under the guise of combating armed factions allegedly destabilizing the nation, despite originating from within the state itself.
Using weapons at that time was a mistake because when revolutions resort to violence, their likelihood of success decreases significantly compared to peaceful revolutions.
Now, over 12 years since the Syrian revolution began, we observe that the Syrian youth who initiated this movement, despite encountering numerous challenges and experiencing international disillusionment, have not grown weary or lost faith in achieving victory. Upon examining the accomplishments of Syrian youth in countries across the globe, we encounter abundant evidence showcasing their brilliance and unwavering determination.
The current inquiry seeks an explanation:
Why have these young individuals attained such notable accomplishments abroad today? Why weren’t young people of similar ages occupying political roles within Syria prior to the onset of the Syrian revolution?
