The recent wave of protests across Asia reveals a significant shift as young people, particularly Gen Z, rally against entrenched corruption and demand social justice. The unrest is a response to widespread dissatisfaction with political elites, particularly the so-called 'nepo kids'—children of influential figures perceived as benefiting from systemic inequality.
In Nepal, a pivotal moment occurred earlier this year when 23-year-old activist Aditya became incensed by news of a political wedding that caused major traffic disruptions. This sparked a broader movement as he and others took to the streets to protest against what they viewed as blatant corruption and exploitation.
From street protests in Kathmandu, which escalated to clashes resulting in numerous casualties, to mass demonstrations in Indonesia and the Philippines, young people have rallied together using digital tools and social media to organize and voice their frustrations.
As Aditya noted, We learnt that there is nothing that we - this generation of students and youths - cannot do. His sentiment resonates across borders, illustrating a sense of solidarity among young activists fueled by shared grievances over inequality and a lack of opportunities.
The digital landscape plays a crucial role in mobilizing these movements, enabling the rapid dissemination of information and fostering connections among protestors. In Nepal, for example, activists utilized platforms like TikTok to share compelling narratives against corruption while circumventing government-imposed restrictions on social media.
Movements are not without their challenges; they face scrutiny from authorities, fears of escalating violence, and questions about their long-term impact. Yet, the powerful emergence of Gen Z voices in advocating for accountability marks a potential turning point in the fight for more equitable governance in Asia.
