The Yemen Uprising of 2011-12 was part of the broader Arab Spring, featuring protests against President ʿAlī ʿAbd Allāh Ṣāliḥ’s long rule. Activists demanded his resignation due to corruption and economic hardship, leading to violent clashes and defections within military ranks. Ultimately, Ṣāliḥ resigned, handing power to Vice President ʿAbd Rabbuh Manṣūr Hadī, and elections were held in early 2012.
During early 2011, a surge of pro-democracy protests erupted across the Middle East and North Africa, resulting in the ousting of leaders in Tunisia and Egypt. This wave of activism reached Yemen, where demonstrators challenged President ʿAlī ʿAbd Allāh Ṣāliḥ, who had been in power for over thirty years amidst widespread poverty and corruption. Activists organized protests that, unlike in Egypt and Tunisia, showed signs of central leadership from various opposition groups.
The Yemen Uprising of 2011-12 marked a significant chapter in the Arab Spring, showcasing the persistent calls for democracy against longstanding authoritarian rule. President Ṣāliḥ’s eventual resignation came amid increasing violence and defections from his government, leading to a transition of power that raised questions about Yemen’s future governance.
Original Source: www.britannica.com
