Standing on Shaky Ground 

When a young Tunisian street vendor, Mohamed Bouazizi, set himself on fire on December 17, 2010, it ignited a protest movement across the Arab world known as the "Arab Spring." Demonstrations subsequently began in Bouazizi's hometown, and by January 14, 2011, the President of Tunisia had fled the country with his power having been removed. The Arab Spring was well underway.

So, what is happening in Tunisia now? 

Tunisia Today
Today Tunisia is in tumult. Why?

• Tunisia's economy is in a shambles, and jobs are few.
• Protests began in 2021 against Tunisia's Parliament for their poor handling of the COVID pandemic. COVID hit Tunisia harder than any North African nation!
• In an effort to stop these protests, Tunisia's President, Kais Saied, suspended parliament, removed Tunisia's Prime Minister, assumed executive powers and moved to rewrite the constitution in July of 2021. Saied has since ruled by own decrees.
• Initially, Saied's actions were seen as necessary, however, now the tables have turned. Saied's actions are seen by many as a kind of coup against the 2011 revolution and constitution.
• Protests are ongoing now and turning violent, as protestors clash with police.
• And now bread prices are skyrocketing due to the Russia / Ukrainian war.

Outside Interference
In recent years, led by their President Erdogan, Turkey has become much more involved in North African affairs much to the chagrin of Tunisia's President Saied. Tension has been heightened between Tunisia and Turkey due to Erdogan's recent comments where he said that Saied's actions were a "slap in the face" to democracy. This prompted Tunisia to immediately ask for a meeting with Turkey's ambassador to Tunisia.

Tunisia's Prospects
President Saied seems to be moving away from democracy toward an autocracy with his controlling methods. Abuse of power was one of the main reasons for the Arab Spring's beginning in Tunisia in 2011! Throw in all the other issues in Tunisia at present, and you have a scenario very similar to what took place prior to 2011. 

Prayer Needs
Tunisia's population of 12 million people is 99% Muslim. Only 0.03% of the population are Jesus followers!

1. Pray for peace in Tunisia
2. Pray for a movement of God's Spirit to use these circumstances for His glory by bringing many Tunisians to Jesus - the Prince of Peace.
3. Pray for the small number of Jesus followers in Tunisia to rise up, count the cost and be the salt and light the LORD wants them to be. 
4. Pray for dreams and visions to come upon Tunisians during Ramadan - particularly on the "Night of Power" Friday, April 29. 
5. Pray for young Tunisians especially. They led the Arab Spring in 2011 and are still struggling with the economy and lack of jobs, though many are educated and qualified.