Libyans Next to Seek Freedom

Libyans Next to Seek Freedom
Weeks after Tunisians brought down their government, and days after Egypt’s government was overthrown, Libyans began organizing their own political protests in hopes of bringing down Colonel Gaddafi’s regime. This ripple effect, which has spread throughout the Middle East and North Africa, has been empowered by the youth. Young people have a renewed sense of optimism that change is possible in countries like Libya where Gaddafi has been in power for 42 years. Yemen’s president, who is also facing anti-government protests, called the movement a “virus”. Due to media bans it has been difficult for journalists to report the extent of the violence in Libya, though some reports suggest hundreds of protesters have been killed by pro-Gaddafi forces. In parts of eastern Libya, where the opposition has largely taken control, citizens fear that Gaddafi’s forces will stop at nothing, including parachuting into the area to regain control.

1. Tunisians and Egyptians recently brought down their governments.
2. The report mentions Yemen’s president because he believes the movement is spreading to his country due to its close proximity to Tunisia and Egypt.
3. It is difficult to know how many people have been killed during the Libyan protests because of the media ban.