Since the popular uprising that caught fire in Tunisia in December of 2010, the Arab world has never been the same again. The initial revolts were received with contagious enthusiasm, and as the dictators fell, the voices of the people, silenced for decades, took over the public sphere. The term “Arab Spring” was coined and embraced by both the media and observers, as well as its participants. The romantic reminiscence of 1968 Prague seemed to fill the air, though also its dramatic outcome.

Four years later, the scene is completely different and the Arab Spring’s spirit of renewal seems to have been overshadowed by a long and uncertain winter. Certain countries like Syria, Libya and Yemen have become entangled in disastrous civil wars. In Egypt, the transition towards a democratic government has been interrupted by deep political divisions, military intervention, an economy in crisis and dysfunctional state institutions. Although Tunisia seems to have escaped from the reigning polarization and is on a path towards a better future, it is still in a fragile socio-economic situation.

Despite the widespread feeling of despair, diverse role-players and groups continue to work from different realms in these countries to achieve a significant change in living conditions and create a chance for opportunities so as to attain the initial revolutionary goals of “bread, freedom and social justice.” Within this context, the story of “social entrepreneurship” is a process which must overcome many different obstacles. That story must be told. The wave of popular movements gave rise to citizen-based initiatives and even new companies that have breathed air into the region’s revolutions, and though unknown by most, they continue to be a phenomenon which will have important effects in terms of the development of these societies.

For instance, activists, businesspeople, artists, musicians and filmmakers have contributed to rebuilding the political, economic, social and cultural fabric, thereby reflecting a growing interest in cooperating with others on topics in the common interest. The development of plural systems, in which all political forces participate without one monopolizing power, is a difficult task in countries with a severe lack of democratic experience. However, they must start somewhere. The exercise in creating a new culture of debate and consensus can be achieved through expression and taking on risks, rejecting traditional social hierarchies and the government’s hegemony, unleashing hidden potential by breaking the bonds of fear.

This seminar, organized by Casa Árabe and the Friedrich Ebert Foundation, comes at a crucial time for reflecting upon and evaluating the tellurian movements that have shaken the foundations of the MENA region and will set the tone for their future development.

When the seminar ends, the show “Syria Speaks” will be held. Paid tickets are required to attend the show but not the seminar and are on sale now online.