Arab Youth: Social Mobilization in Times of Risk

In 2011, thousands of Arab youth took to the streets to demand their freedom. Although it is too early to speculate on the ultimate outcome of the revolutionary uprisings, one auspicious feature stands out: they reveal the genesis of a new generation sparked by the desire for civil liberties, advocacy for human rights and participatory democracy. Arab Youth explores some of the antecedents of the upheavals and anticipates alternative venues of resistance that marginalized youth, from Lebanon, Syria and Palestine to Saudi Arabia, Morocco and Iran, can mobilize to realize their emancipatory expectations. Themes covered in this unique volume include the forging of meaningful collective identities in times of risk and uncertainty; youth militancy, neighborhood violence and youth gangs in distinct urban and suburban settings; the surge of youthful activism in political movements, advocacy groups and welfare civic associations; and youths’ expressive outlets through popular arts, street music and popular culture.