The problems of unemployment in the developing world

The upheaval going on in the Arab world is not only about political freedoms or overthrow of government but about the chronic problem of unemployment. Most of the Arab population is young but their opportunities to gain employment are next to none due to corruption, cronyism and lack of industrialization in their countries. All this lack of opportunity breeds resentment and frustration since these youths have few areas to channel or vent their frustration. Due to the high unemployment, many young men are not able to get married and thus can’t support a family.

The fear that was keeping this youth from protesting their living standards vanished as they see no hope in getting gainful employment and this was the last resort that they had to take and stand up to their governments to make their lives better if they can. Once the potential to face down the fear is vanished and having nothing to lose, these youths have come out in force to demand a say in their country’s affairs and demand an end to corruption, cronyism, nepotism, and favoritism and general lack of jobs. This was bound to happen sooner or later, they were just waiting for a spark to give them the impetus to protest.