The Young and the Hopeless!

I am frequently asked why we focus Arabic programs on young adults 18-29 years old. I don’t like generalization, so let’s talk about a specific country—Egypt. I chose Egypt because it is the largest Arab country with population over 80 millions.

A U.N. report released in June cites repression as one of the main forces preventing Egyptian youths, who make up over a quarter of the population, from participating in the country's development. The Egypt Human Development report came out during a wave of demonstrations in the city of Alexandria. Many of the demonstrations have been violently dispersed by security forces.

The annual report, prepared by the U.N. Development Program, focused this year on the plight of Egyptians aged 18 to 29 and their disenfranchisement in the country amid widespread unemployment and political apathy.

The authors singled out corruption, nepotism, fraud and the long-running state of emergency for discouraging young people from engaging in politics and society. They also criticized restrictions on freedom of expression and demonstrations and interference in public activities of university students.

The report presentation described a "culture of fear" among youth who feel intimidated from expressing opinions or engaging in public activity.

The report said 90% of Egypt's unemployed are under the age of 30. Overall, Egyptian unemployment has remained around 10% in past years, but among those aged 20-25 it has been as high as 40%, according to official figures.

Upon entering adulthood, many young people have to spend several years waiting for a job, a house or just to marry because of lack of opportunities.

This generation of young adults is desperate for hope, looking for it in the wrong places. I believe the Gospel is the only hope that can save them from a life of despair and self destruction, not to mention fundamentalism and terrorism.

We continue to prepare Arabic programs that speak to this young generation in their own language. Most of our writers and producers are of that generation and live in the Middle East, so they know and live these struggles everyday! Please pray for guidance, provision and protection.