Tunisia’s Troubled Election: A Young Generation Without Hope
As Tunisia held its third election since the Arab Spring, the country’s young population remained disillusioned with the political process. With low turnout and a lack of enthusiasm, the future of Tunisia’s democracy seems uncertain.
In the downtown Ariana neighborhood of Greater Tunis, young men gathered at outdoor cafes, their minds elsewhere. Amri Sofien, a 32-year-old freelance filmmaker, expressed his frustration with the economic prospects for young Tunisians. “I count myself as part of a large group of young Tunisians who did not vote in the election,” he said. “There is no hope in this country.”
Sofien’s sentiments are echoed by many young Tunisians, who feel that the current leadership, led by President Kais Saied, has failed to deliver on its promises. Saied’s rule has been marred by allegations of authoritarianism, and his supporters are seen as a small minority.
The election results reflect the widespread apathy, with turnout less than 30%. Hundreds marched in central Tunis on Friday to protest Saied’s rule, accusing him of being a dictator. Young people present at the protest said they would not be voting in the election.
Saied’s supporters, however, see him as different from career politicians and willing to do the work necessary to free Tunisia from foreign influence. Ismahan Zaghdoudi, a young demonstrator waving a Palestinian flag, expressed her support for Saied. “They don’t want to let him do his job. All Tunisians know this. As for me, I’m optimistic for a good future.”
As Tunisia struggles to find its footing, its young generation is caught in the middle. With a lack of hope and opportunity, many are left to wonder if the country’s democracy will ever truly thrive.