The Arab Spring took journalism by the storm.

In a region where authoritarian regimes get the final say, citizens and journalists seized an opportunity to stand up to repressive governments last spring. People took cell phone videos and Tweeted about protests, and journalists followed their leads.

Since the revolutions have died down, some states are fostering a more vibrant news community than ever.

Tunisian press was once plagued with high levels of corruption and full of state propaganda. Now, tides are turning, and the Tunisian Interior ministry called for factual journalism in the country. This new tolerance of free speech has lead to a proliferation of news sources. According to the Africa Review, more than 70 media companies have applied for business licenses in Tunis, the capital.

Lebanon was formerly best place for journalists to work in the region, but Tunis has taken over in the annual ranking of media freedom by Reporters without Borders.