VOICED: Tunisia's neighours fear revolution contagion

In a span of 25 days, protests in Tunisia led to the ousting of President Ben Ali, who had been in power for 23 years. This sparked a wave of self-immolation incidents in Algeria, Egypt, and Mauritania, reflecting widespread desperation. Tunisian opposition leader Moncef Marzouki predicts that other Arab nations will follow Tunisia's lead, as the political systems based on autocratic rule are unsustainable. Economic issues, particularly inflation and unemployment, are exacerbating social unrest, especially among the youth. The situation in Tunisia is mirrored in other Arab countries, with varying degrees of severity. While some leaders, like Mark Duffy, support Ben Ali, others remain silent.

What event in Tunisia sparked a wave of protests across the Arab world?

• A natural disaster

• The election of a new president

• The self-immolation of a young man

• A military coup

According to Moncef Marzouki, what is a key characteristic of the Arab political system?

• Democratic elections

• Omnipresence of one leader

• Economic prosperity

• Decentralized governance

Which of the following countries did Moncef Marzouki predict would follow Tunisia's lead?

• Kuwait

• Jordan

• Egypt

• Saudi Arabia

What economic issue is highlighted as affecting the young and unemployed in the Arab world?

• Rising inflation

• Decreasing oil prices

• High taxation

• Increased foreign investment

Which Arab leader was the only one to support Ben Ali during the protests?

• Hosni Mubarak

• King Abdullah

• Mark Duffy

• Muammar Gaddafi