Disillusioned youth in Tunisia

Young Tunisians were at the forefront of the country’s 2011 revolution. But today, many are unemployed and bitter about its fallout.

Twenty-five-year old Tarek Zeid wants to become a computer engineer. But his only job prospects right now are wrapping up Tunisian carpets at a tourist shop.

Like tens of thousands of Tunisians, Zeid was on the streets in early 2011, in demonstrations that ousted former strongman Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali. But today he says, the revolution hasn’t brought many benefits.
Zeid says unemployment is too high. Hopes for democracy aren’t panning out.

Nor is Zeid alone. Among many youth here, there is a sense of bitter disappointment – or at least impatience for results – after Tunisia’s revolution.

Some of the young bloggers who spearheaded the revolt have become successful in business and media. But roughly one-third of young, working-age Tunisians are unemployed.

Last year, thousands of young Tunisians voted with their feet, setting off for Europe on rickety boats.

Zeid says he hoped Tunisia’s revolution would bring freedom. But today, he says, the only time he feels free is at the stadium, during a football match.

Pray for the youth of Tunisia and for Christians who can open businesses and provide training to give youth new opportunities. Pray for the message of hope to made real to young people in these days.