The Middle East today is not the region we once knew. While the Arab Spring may seem like a distant memory to some, its spirit of transformation remains relevant, particularly in the potential of the region’s youth. This potential, however, requires time, effort, and the cultivation of organizational skills by youth leaders to translate energy into positive and meaningful progress.
During a recent visit to Turkey, I witnessed firsthand how technology has transformed everyday life in the region. From a taxi driver using an instant translation app to navigate my trip to conversations about global and local issues, it is evident that the Middle East is embracing change in unprecedented ways. Technology, social media, and global connectivity have empowered the region’s youth like never before. The days of youth being passive observers of their circumstances are over.
A Changing Demographic Landscape
The Middle East is home to a population exceeding 400 million, half of whom are under the age of 25. These young people are interconnected through platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, and LinkedIn, creating a digital space for mobilization, collaboration, and innovation. The Arab Spring demonstrated the power of grassroots organization and youth-driven change, but the work is far from complete. Many considered the Arab Spring a light at the end of the tunnel, yet some argue it never helped youth see a brighter future. I disagree with this notion, as my extensive travel and engagement with youth leaders across the MENA region—whether over tea or in WhatsApp groups—have shown me that positive change is happening, though it requires time and patience.
In countries such as Libya, Yemen, and Tunisia, the journey toward reform remains a work in progress. While some nations have regressed into authoritarianism or religious conservatism, others are taking measured steps toward modernization and democratic governance. However, progress is uneven, and the youth are key to accelerating this positive trajectory.
Youth as Drivers of Modernization and Democracy
The youth of the Middle East are not simply rejecting the status quo—they are actively pushing for modernization, openness, and democracy. Most of the time their efforts are apolitical, focusing instead on grassroots initiatives, community improvement, and economic empowerment. Whether through social entrepreneurship, digital innovation, or local activism, young people are creating opportunities for progress that transcend political affiliations. I worked with the World Bank to develop nine case studies showcasing how youth entrepreneurship in technology is reshaping the Middle East, from Morocco to Yemen. This two-year journey exposed me to youth-led initiatives where young innovators are leveraging technology to transform their communities. I was humbled by how they creatively utilize limited resources to build impactful solutions—from ride-sharing platforms for safer transportation in Rabat to health and wellness platform facilitated through digital systems. Truly inspiring work.
The critical challenge lies in channeling this energy into organized and sustainable movements. Youth must develop the skills to lead, strategize, and collaborate effectively. With mentorship and support, their initiatives can grow from isolated efforts to regional networks of change. Malcolm Gladwell’s book The Tipping Point should be translated, summarized, and widely shared with millions of youth in the Middle East.
Empowering Women and Marginalized Voices
The role of women leaders in the Middle East cannot be overlooked. In countries like Lebanon, Jordan and the UAE, women are stepping into leadership positions in business and civil society, balancing the demands of family and work in societies that offer little structural support. Their efforts are paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future, proving that gender equality is essential for lasting progress. However, the road toward increasing women workforce participation remains long. In Jordan, 67% of women earning higher degrees while only 17% participate in the labor force, according to the latest data. This highlights a significant untapped talent pool—a critical national resource for a country like Jordan. As King Hussein once said, “Human beings are the most valuable asset we have.” The challenge is translating this vision into actionable steps for Jordan and the region, ensuring that this potential is nurtured and fully realized.
Youth as Assets, Not Liabilities
The so-called “youth bulge” in the Middle East is an asset waiting to be tapped, not a liability to be mitigated. Governments, private sector leaders, and civil society organizations must view youth as partners in progress. Providing platforms for skill development, fostering innovation, and enabling access to global markets are critical steps in unlocking the potential of this demographic. Youth need both mental and physical space to thrive. Simply put, governments in the MENA region must empower them to lead—or simply leave them alone.
A Hopeful Future
The road to a peaceful, prosperous, and stable Middle East is long, but the seeds of transformation are already planted. Change takes time, effort, and organization. The region’s youth hold the key to this future. By learning to channel their energy into structured movements and initiatives, they can drive the Middle East toward modernization and democracy.
The Arab Spring was not the end of a movement but the beginning of a long journey. The Middle East is changing, and with the determination and resilience of its youth, the best is yet to come.
