The Arab uprisings a decade on: Egypt and Tunisia (Webinar)
A decade ago on 14th January 2011, after weeks of historic protests, Tunisians deposed their decades-long dictator Ben Ali. Inspired by this revolutionary development, Egyptians embarked on an equally inspiring revolt which in barely 18 days culminated in the overthrow of Mubarak; another despot.
These revolutionary uprisings shook the world in a few weeks and swept away western-backed tyrants – one after the other – in what is still undoubtedly among the most unforgettable historical events. The melodious chants “The people want the fall of the regime” echoed across the region and crossed several continents, expressing a deeply self-emancipatory transformative experience.
Like most revolutionary situations led by common peoples, the 2011 uprisings released enormous energy, a collective effervescence, an unparalleled sense of renewal and a major shift in consciousness. Despite an amazing show of resilience and people power, these revolts faced considerable challenges and setbacks.
The movements found themselves pitted against entrenched authoritarian and counter-revolutionary forces that were sent to crush them. But before we hurry to the aftermaths, and without declaring ‘revolutions’ the discursive property of a past tense, we intend to look back, to take stock precisely in order to look forward.
This webinar is the first of a series – each with a different focus and angle -and will focus on Tunisia and Egypt, the birthplace of the magnificent revolts. The aim is to revisit these historical moments with some of the finest scholar-activists, participants and witnesses from those very contexts. Together we shall reflect on some of the key achievements and defeats and draw new lessons.
Panellists:
– Mabrouka M’barek (doctoral student in sociology at University of Massachusetts Amherst.)
– Chafik Benrouine (Tunisian activist and economic analyst)
– Dina Makram-Ebeid (Egyptian scholar)
– Hossam el-Hamalawy (Egyptian journalist, photographer and activist)
Translation into Arabic.
The discussion will be facilitated or hosted by Miriyam Aouragh – Dutch-Moroccan Scholar-activist. Reader at Westminister University and Hamza Hamouchene – Algerian activist. North Africa Programme Coordinator at TNI
Registration: us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/2716110482884/WN_i20zOobVSISl4Zcz4Kql6A