From Arab Spring to Generation Z: Youth Activism and Mobilization in Tunisia and Morocco

Youth movements have been significantly influenced by the Arab Spring in North Africa, particularly in Tunisia and Morocco, among Generation Z. However, there is limited comparative research examining how digital activism, socio-economic grievances, and political systems influence contemporary youth mobilization in both countries. Thus, the present study aims to investigate the features, drivers, and forms of Gen Z activism in Tunisia and Morocco and to examine the influence of political contexts on youth political participation. Methodologically, the study adopts a structured comparative review of academic and institutional literature rather than a primary analysis of social media content. The results show that Gen Z activism is becoming more decentralized, issue-based, and digitally driven, with gaps in employment and inequality, and the lack of trust in political institutions being major drivers. The study suggests greater youth inclusion, as well as addressing socio-economic inequalities. The findings suggest that, while still constrained at the structural and political level, digital activism reshapes and transforms political engagement in the area.