Scent of Jasmine in Arab Spring

Tunisia might be just a small African country before 2010, at least for some. Mohamed Bouazizi, a young street Vendor, set himself on fire, which ignited the Jasmine Revolution and ended the authoritarian regime of Ben Ali. It also became a catalyst of the Arab Spring.

Avenue Habib Bourguiba is where the Jasmine Revolution sprouted, witnessing the 28-day campaign. It is the central thoroughfare in both political and economic aspects. Ironically, the Avenue is named after the first President, who led the independence movement.

Me: Is it where the Arab Spring kicked off?

My friend: Don’t romanticize it as the Arab Spring or Jasmine Revolution.

Me: Why?

My friend: An ENDURING revolution has just begun.

From the National Assembly, to Assembly of the Representatives of the People, the evolution is remarkable. But the unemployment rate, coupled with the enduring gerontocracy, disappointed the youth political engagement, and even refused to cast their vote.

In turn, civil society became the battlefield for equality. The branch of Transparency International iWatch flourished in particular. Not only does It organize anti-corruption campaigns, but it also sets up the iWATCH Army for peaceful protests across the country.

“Corruption anywhere is a threat to democracy everywhere.” Take a breath. You would easily smell Jasmine, the national flower. Vendors sell it everywhere. But it is more than a tourist trick. My friend's relative bought her one as a goodbye gift. It is the meaning that counts.