A Failed Revolution ?!

By Nuha Dadesh

     When a regime or a government oppresses its people, a revolution occurs. Generally, a revolution's objective is an improved, prosperous nation. Its aftermath, though, leaves people regretting it at times.

     The February 17 Revolution had Libyans untied at one time. However, as the riots came to an end, corruption, lawlessness, and separation began. Chaos and confusion are expected considering the humongous change in the country, but after nearly three years, a resolution should have been put into place.

     Many are debating if the Libyan revolution in 2011 is a failure. There are several factors that make some consider it a failure, and each one played a big role in the collapse of the rebellion.

     It all went downhill when the phrase " Forgive and forget" lost its meaning. When it was obvious that Gaddafi was becoming powerless, a quantity of his loyalists began to support the revolution. Although their crimes were well-known, they were still welcomed with joyous smiles as "brothers". Another thing that lost its value is the word "Thuwar," which means rebels in Arabic. Some men that slept cozily under their blankets during the six months of fighting, were later given non-earned respect and admiration. In addition, freedom was new to Libyans, since it was not known for over four decades. Many abused it; thinking it meant that you could do what you want, when you want, where you want, and how you want! What an enormous slip-up it was that liberty was not offered in a limited amount.

     A numerous amount of citizens were gleefully ready to start building a better Libya. However, they found out shortly after that many enjoyed it being corrupt and lawless. The awful and shocking character traits of many began to appear.

     Hatred and bitterness. Selfishness. Revenge! Being somewhat successful didn't give an idol image, but meant that they were not better than you. Humbleness usually was seen as a weakness, thus creating an ostentatious society. The " United we stand, divided we fall" motto was not followed. It seems that everyone is just trying to make it on their own in this land due to the lack of service from the so called government. Finally, it's as if all the forgiveness was poured at the end of the revolution and none of it is left in Libya. Pay back became a common tactic among the residents. Instead of the mutual negative vibes, consciousness and piousness should be gained for a better, happier society

     Racism and double standards! The discrimination is usually towards  dark skinned people. The word "Abed," which means slave in Arabic, is a common slur used by Libyan folks while mentioning blacks. Moreover, men and women are treated and looked upon very differently. For instance, a Libyan man smoking is considered normal, but a Libyan woman smoking is considered a taboo.* In conclusion, there are loads of  backward subjects that need to be discussed and worked out.

     "Some people are so open minded, their brains fell out." A majority of the population desires modernization, but some have the wrong picture of what it is like to be modernized. In particular, there is a trend that portrays if you are not religious or you practice religion as least as possible, then that means you are modernized. Hopefully, one day Libya will get to see the true definition of renewal. 

            More than half of the Libyan population are hypocrites, and that's just an estimated guess by me. The hypocrites of Libya that the world gets a chance to see are the politicians that openly lie on air without any sense of guilt; criticizing Gaddafi and his sons robbing Libya of its luxuries while they do the same.

     Depression spreads around almost as fast as the gossip, rumors, and lies here. The constant power and water cuts, gas crisis, slow Internet, poor education, robberies, kidnappings, lack of security, worthless elections,  weekly assassinations, bad healthcare, apathy, no happy spirit, and lack of respect create genuine pleasant smiles rare.

     As a final point, we can only hope and look on the bright side for so long. It's time to start building a better homeland and creating/being a better society.

*       Smoking is harmful whether you're a man or a woman. This is just an example of sexism in Libya.