Lina Ben Mhenni

Lina Ben Mhenni, Tunis 16 juin 2013

Lina Ben Mhenni (1983 – 27 January 2020) was a Tunisian internet activist, blogger, and lecturer in linguistics at the University of Tunis. She played a significant role during the Tunisian Revolution of 2010-2011, which was part of the wider Arab Spring. Her blog, "A Tunisian Girl," provided the world with a unique perspective on the events unfolding in Tunisia, often reporting on human rights abuses and governmental corruption. Ben Mhenni's activism was not limited to her blog; she was also active on various social media platforms, where she continued to advocate for democracy, freedom of expression, and human rights.

Early Life and Education

Lina Ben Mhenni was born in 1983 in Tunisia. She grew up in a politically active family, which influenced her future activism. Ben Mhenni pursued her education in the field of linguistics, earning a degree from the University of Tunis. Her academic background provided her with the skills to articulate her thoughts and communicate effectively with a broad audience, both in Arabic and English.

Activism

Before the Tunisian Revolution, Ben Mhenni was already a vocal critic of the Tunisian government's policies, particularly regarding censorship and the suppression of free speech. She used her blog "A Tunisian Girl" to document these abuses and to share her views on political and social issues affecting Tunisia and the wider Arab world.

During the revolution, Ben Mhenni's blog and social media accounts became vital sources of information for both Tunisians and the international community. She reported on the protests, police brutality, and the political upheaval that eventually led to the ousting of President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali. Her work during this period was recognized internationally, and she was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2011 for her efforts in promoting freedom of expression and democracy.

Health Issues and Death

Lina Ben Mhenni battled a chronic illness for many years, which she openly discussed on her blog and social media platforms. Despite her health challenges, she continued her activism and advocacy work until her death on 27 January 2020.

Legacy

Lina Ben Mhenni's legacy is that of a fearless advocate for democracy and human rights. Her contributions to the Tunisian Revolution and her efforts to promote freedom of expression have inspired many young activists in Tunisia and around the world. After her death, tributes poured in from across the globe, recognizing her as a symbol of courage and resilience in the face of oppression.

See Also

• Tunisian Revolution
• Arab Spring
• Freedom of expression
• Human rights in Tunisia