Tunisia: An Arab Anomaly

The Arab Spring began and ended with Tunisia, leading to a peaceful transition to a functioning democracy. Safwan M. Masri's book "Tunisia: An Arab Anomaly" explores the factors that have shaped the country's exceptional experience, arguing that its history of reformism set it on a separate trajectory from the rest of the region. The narrative explores notions of identity, the relationship between Islam and society, and the hegemonic role of religion in shaping educational, social, and political agendas.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 26 March 2019
Publisher: Columbia University Press

The Arab Spring, a period of significant political and social upheaval across the Arab world, began and ended with Tunisia. In a region plagued by brutal repression, humanitarian disasters, and civil war, Tunisia's Jasmine Revolution alone paved the way for a peaceful transition to a functioning democracy. Within a span of four short years, Tunisians achieved remarkable milestones, including the passage of a progressive constitution, the conduct of fair parliamentary elections, and the election of the country's first-ever democratically elected president. However, the question remains: Did Tunisia simply evade the misfortunes that befell its neighbors, or were there unique factors that set it apart and made it a special case?

In his book, Tunisia: An Arab Anomaly, Safwan M. Masri delves into the factors that have shaped Tunisia's exceptional experience. He traces the country's history of reform in education, religion, and women's rights, arguing that the seeds for today's relatively liberal and democratic society were planted as far back as the middle of the nineteenth century. Masri contends that Tunisia stands out not as a model that can be replicated in other Arab countries but rather as an anomaly, as its history of reformism set it on a distinct trajectory from the rest of the region.

The narrative explores notions of identity, the relationship between Islam and society, and the hegemonic role of religion in shaping educational, social, and political agendas across the Arab region. Drawing upon extensive interviews with dozens of experts, leaders, activists, and ordinary citizens, as well as a comprehensive synthesis of existing knowledge, Masri presents a sensitive, often personal, account that is essential for understanding not only Tunisia but also the broader Arab world.

The book sheds light on the complex dynamics that have contributed to Tunisia's unique path, including the country's historical background, the role of the military, the influence of the international community, and the resilience and determination of the Tunisian people. It also raises important questions about the future of democracy and governance in the Arab world, as well as the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Tunisia's story serves as a reminder of the power of human agency and the potential for positive change in even the most challenging circumstances. It is a testament to the resilience and determination of the Arab people and a call to action for those seeking to promote democracy, human rights, and social justice across the region. By examining the factors that have shaped Tunisia's exceptional experience, Masri provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics of the Arab world and offers a roadmap for building a more inclusive and democratic future.

Weight: 546g
Dimension: 150 x 223 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231179515