Generation Z Sparks Political Uprisings Across South Asia
Generation Z is making waves across South Asia, sparking unprecedented political upheavals from Bangladesh to Nepal. These youth-led revolts, fueled by social media and a focus on material well-being, are challenging stagnant economies and authoritarian regimes, marking a generational shift in the region.
In Bangladesh, a student-led uprising in 2024 ousted an authoritarian government led by Prime Minister Muhammad Yunus. Similarly, Nepal witnessed back-to-back student-led protests that culminated in the fall of its government. These events signal a sharp break from past patterns, driven by decentralized leadership and a collective desire for change.
India, traditionally the dominant power in the region, has struggled to respond to these upheavals. The country faces immediate challenges such as increased border security, reduced trade, and domestic unrest. Meanwhile, smaller states are no longer passive recipients of Indian influence, instead balancing ties with both India and China while guarding their sovereignty.
The youth-led uprisings in Bangladesh and Nepal expose fundamental weaknesses in South Asian political stability and undermine India's role as a regional stabilizer. India's traditional diplomatic approach, based on historical linkages and cultural diplomacy, seems to be losing its effectiveness. Indian policymakers now face the challenge of navigating between outdated interventionist instincts and strategic paralysis in response to these rapid changes.
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