EXPLAINERNews|Arab SpringBorn after the Arab Spring: 37 million Egyptians have no memory of 2011One-third of Egyptians were born after the 2011 Arab Spring protests which removed longtime President Hosni Mubarak.
## Demographics and Economic Developments in Egypt
Demographics and Economic Developments in Egypt
Fifteen years have elapsed since the onset of the Arab Spring protests in Egypt. Initially inspired by events in Tunisia, the protests in Egypt aimed to address high unemployment, poverty, and political repression. These demonstrations led to the resignation of President Hosni Mubarak after 18 days.
Egypt’s Population and Economic Indicators
In 2011, Egypt's population stood at 83 million with an unemployment rate of 12 percent. The gross domestic product (GDP) per capita was $2,590, and the exchange rate was 5.8 Egyptian pounds per US dollar. Currently, the population has increased to nearly 120 million, with an unemployment rate of 6.4 percent and a GDP per capita of $3,339. The exchange rate has shifted to approximately 47 Egyptian pounds per US dollar, affecting the purchasing power of its citizens.
Egypt has a notably young demographic, with over half of its population under the age of 24. This segment is largely responsible for driving internet and social media usage. The economic landscape requires the creation of 1.5 million jobs annually, though only 600,000 have been created each year over the past two decades. The government aims to increase higher education enrollment to 5.6 million by 2032 to support economic modernization.
Fifteen years have elapsed since the onset of the Arab Spring protests in Egypt.
The Egyptian revolution commenced with large-scale protests on January 25, culminating in the resignation of President Mubarak on February 11, when he transferred authority to the military. Key events included:
January 25 – Day of rage – Mass protests called for the departure of President Mubarak. January 28 – Friday of anger – Demonstrations intensified, with significant gatherings in Cairo's Tahrir Square. February 1 – The “million-man” march – Nationwide protests continued, leading to the suspension of train services. February 2 – Battle of the camels – Pro-Mubarak supporters attempted to suppress protests using violence in Tahrir Square. February 10 – Mubarak defiant – Mubarak's announcement to remain in power until September stirred further unrest. February 11 – Mubarak resigns – Mubarak resigned, transferring control to the military after sustained protests.
Youth Demographics in Other Arab Spring Nations
Similar to Egypt, other countries affected by the Arab Spring exhibit youthful populations. In Tunisia, 24 percent of the population is under 15 years of age. Libya reports 27 percent of its population under 15. Syria has 29 percent of its population under the age of 15, and Yemen has the highest percentage with 41 percent of its population under 15.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
