Libya: Benghazi - Youth Use Artivism to Start a Revolution

For almost 42 years the Libyan people have lived under the rule of Colonel Muammar Gadaffi, an autocratic ruler who rose to power through a military coup in 1969.

In the wake of revolutions that toppled the leaders of neighboring Tunisia and Egypt, a popular uprising began in Libya. The Opposition, known as the February 17th Youth Movement, started as a spontaneous street demonstration for democracy and quickly ousted the Gaddafi-led local government in eastern Libya.

Real challenges lie ahead as the Libyan Opposition works to institutionalize the reforms that are being called for and achieve their long-held dreams of establishing a nation that is democratic and free.

Mercy Corps has already started holding focus groups with youth leaders in Benghazi, Libya to better understand their aspirations and the challenges ahead.

With over 20 years of experience supporting peaceful change in the Middle East, Mercy Corps is empowering young people with IT and other career training, providing psychosocial support for children and youth traumatized by conflict; encouraging peaceful conflict resolution; and building business partnerships that stimulate sustainable job growth.

Now we're preparing to lend our expertise in bringing people together and creating opportunity to support those who want a better life in Libya.

Produced, written and filmed by Cassandra Nelson.