Education and Democratization Evidence from the Jasmine Revolution

Abstract

This thesis attempts to evaluate the relation between education and democracy with a focus on post-Arab Spring years. A dynamic panel study of 18 Arab countries between the years of 2010-2018 shows that education is a key determinant of democracy endurance, while controlling for other democracy determinants. The results clearly point out that education was a main determinant of the Arab uprisings and reason for its persistence and success. The thesis also suggests some policy recommendations on how to improve expenditure and equal access to education, while opening a window for further research of how education can influence democracy through other channels.