What has forced Tunisian youth to protest across the country?

The past week saw widespread protests in Tunis, the capital city of Tunisia, with people especially the youth coming down on the streets demonstrating against the government. Since the past few days protests have gradually spread across working-class districts and neighborhoods in at least 15 sites across Tunisia. 

The reason is declining quality of life, poverty, and unemployment, especially among the younger generation. 

So far 600 people have been arrested across the country, the majority ranging between 15 and 25 years of age. In order to protect the federal properties army has been deployed. 

Early this week, a large demonstration was held in the central part of Tunis demanding the ending of police violence and the release of those detained. Many videos have been circulating showing police officers beating protesters during the clash. Amnesty International has called out the police for this. Videos also show young people being spewed with tear gas and well-organized fireworks and stones used by the police. 

But what is the reason for this protest that does not look to end any time soon? Hunger! The basic requirement of life is the driving force behind the anger and protests. A young man shares, “Even children aged 10 are angry. Thank God we have houses and food to eat. I see families of up to 10 members who can’t afford that. They don’t even have 200 millimeters (about 5p) for a baguette.” 

Unemployment is not new to Tunisian people. It has been a reason for social unrest for a long time now. The country has seen unemployment at 15% for years now. Shockingly, this rate rises to 36% among young people of 15 to 24 years old. Pandemic has only made things worse now. Tourism, a vital sector in Tunisia, is affected adversely. This has led to many people migrate to nearby countries, including Italy, that reported 12,883 arrivals from Tunisia.