'The Arab Spring was something from the people for the people': Singer Emel Mathlouthi

'The Arab Spring was something from the people for the people': Singer Emel Mathlouthi Culture

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10:21

Issued on: 28/05/2026 - 13:39Modified: 28/05/2026 - 13:44

10:21 min Share From the show Reading time 1 min

The woman whose song was at the heart of the Arab Spring has told FRANCE 24 that even 15 years later she looks back on her role, and the role of the protesters with admiration. Tunisian-American artist Emel Mathlouthi's song Kelmti Horra, or "My Word is Free", became something of an anthem at the time as uprisings against the authorities sprang up in one county after another. This weekend she's in concert here in Paris, and she joined us beforehand in Perspective.

By: Stuart Norval Advertising Related keywords

• Music
• Arab Spring
• Tunisia