Recent years have seen a surge in citizen-led movements across Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, highlighting a shared climate of political upheaval in South Asia. These protests, occurring in the years 2022, 2024, and 2025, each reveal similar patterns of public discontent aimed at the governing parties. Gen Z has played a significant role in these events, often leading to the departure of key leaders. A common thread that links these nations is the significant influence of China, which raises questions about the broader causes of regional instability.
What were the origins of the protests?
Sri Lanka: Economic Hardship and Policy Failures
In Sri Lanka, protests began in April 2022 due to economic hardship and government policies, leading the government to declare a state of emergency. This move granted security forces expanded powers. Much of the cabinet resigned, isolating key leaders. The protests then escalated into violence, resulting in the President’s departure.
Bangladesh: Reservation-Related Disputes
In Bangladesh, an anti-reservation movement led to violence on August 5, 2024, resulting in numerous deaths. The protests spread throughout Dhaka, marked by widespread unrest, and led to the Prime Minister’s resignation and her seeking asylum.
Nepal: Corruption and Unmet Promises
In Nepal, the protests started on September 8, with Gen Z organizing demonstrations focused on the government’s unfulfilled promises regarding corruption. The issues included economic downturn, and unemployment, leading to a period of violence.
Who were the key figures in the protests?
Nepal: The Gen Z Generation
The protests in Nepal were led by the younger generation. The organization ‘Hami Nepal’ helped coordinate the protests, with Sudhan Gurung, a 36-year-old, emerging as a significant figure.
Bangladesh: Student Activists
Nahid Islam, a student, played a key role in leading the protests in Bangladesh.
Sri Lanka: Citizen-Led Protests
In Sri Lanka, the protests were largely driven by the general public.
What were the primary drivers behind the protests?
Nepal: Corruption, Economic Woes, and Social Media Bans
In Nepal, the protests were primarily fueled by corruption, economic recession, unemployment, and the government’s ban on social media.
Bangladesh: Controversies Over Job Quotas
In Bangladesh, the reservation system became a central issue, sparking significant protests.
Sri Lanka: Economic Crisis and Corruption
In Sri Lanka, a combination of the economic crisis and corruption fueled the widespread unrest.
How did the governments respond to these protests?
Nepal: Forceful Tactics and Curfews
The Nepali government used force to control the protesters, including tear gas and firing, along with the imposition of curfews.
Bangladesh: Heavy-Handed Response
The Bangladeshi government was criticized for its handling of the protests, which resulted in numerous casualties and injuries.
Sri Lanka: Imposition of Emergency
The Sri Lankan government declared a state of emergency, but the protests continued.
What were the main slogans used during these protests?
Nepal: Slogans included the ‘Nepo Kid’ trend and calls for the Prime Minister’s resignation.
Bangladesh: Calls for justice and an end to dictatorship.
Sri Lanka: The slogan ‘Gota-Go-Gama’ (Gotabaya, go to your village).
China’s Growing Influence
Nepal:
Nepal’s relationship with China has been enhanced by the BRI agreement. China has invested heavily in Nepal’s infrastructure.
Bangladesh:
China has invested in infrastructure, removed import duties and also provided aid and military support.
Sri Lanka:
China has invested in port projects, solidifying its influence. Sri Lanka has taken out large loans from China.
The protests demonstrate a common pattern of governments failing to fulfill public expectations, with the youth playing a critical role, and the removal of top leaders in each instance.