The “Gen-Z phenomenon”, increasingly associated with activism and social change, is now intersecting with the political events unfolding around the world. This generation is known for challenging stereotypes, societal norms, and barriers, often leveraging the tools of the modern era. While much of their activism has been digital (“hashtag activism”), it is now evident on ground too.

Gen-Z, the most racially diverse generation, is often defined as “fluid” and perceived as idealistic. Roberta Katz, a senior anthropologist at Stanford’s CASBS, describes them as “a highly collaborative cohort” and “future-oriented”. The cultural, social, economic, and political forces generated by Gen-Z in particular are shaping global activism, with their political maturity and awareness playing a key role in this transformation. A clear manifestation of this worldwide phenomenon is the onset of “youth-quakes” – whether in the shape of revolts in Bangladesh, protests at Ivy-League universities for Palestine, demonstrations in Taiwan against pro-China lawmakers’ bill in the parliament, or the protests in Iran, largely led by the youth.

To understand the impact of this sweeping spectacle, it is essential to collectively study these youth-led protests, especially those happening in 2024. Identifying shared experiences and common driving factors behind this rise in student activism are is crucial, along with analyzing the possible challenges and critique that any such force inevitably faces.

FACTORS SHAPING THE GEN-Z PHENOMENON:

Political storms are brewing worldwide, owing mostly to the divided opinions on the US-funded war in Palestine and a general rise in the right-wing groups globally. These protests tend to inspire more protests, spilling over into other states, especially in today’s highly globalized era. An event happening in one part of the world can spark a reaction or serve as an inspiration in another. What is interesting is the nature of these protests.

Gen-Z, highly connected through social media, and born into a digitized age, is uniquely positioned to address ongoing and upcoming issues. This interconnectedness, which blurs borders and physical separations, may explain the globalized character of student protests. It is also evident by the fact that the first step amidst protests in today’s world is often the blocking of the internet by authorities.

Gen-Z, highly connected through social media, and born into a digitized age, is uniquely positioned to address ongoing and upcoming issues.

Henry Kissinger, in his book ‘Leadership: Six Studies in World Strategy’, pointed to a ‘shift in culture’, characterized by four biases: . These seem to be the pillars of the dawn of Gen-Z, giving rise to populist politics, affected by “personal and mass emotion”. Another dimension relates to the shared cultural, political, and social experience of Gen-Z (born between 1995 and 2005), which influences their behavior. This generation grew up facing unique, collective challenges like climate change, financial crises, and a global pandemic – fostering a sense of collective responsibility from a young age. Increased awareness of rights, a general tilt towards human security instead of state security, a pronounced realization of injustices – especially those with colonial or authoritative roots – are all motivating today’s youth, to act differently from their predecessors.

CASE STUDIES OF STUDENT ACTIVISM:

Civil unrest is unfolding around the world, from the government-toppling revolt in Bangladesh, to impactful and resilient protests at the Ivy League universities. These student-led protests are transcendent, occurring regardless of any geographical and ideological divides. Protests are happening in the “liberal” West, under the suppressive theological state of Iran, and against a 15-year strong rule of Sheikh Hasina in Bangladesh. Each of these revolts and protests, comes with significant consequences for the student participants, yet their defiance remains firm – a rare, revolutionary phenomenon.

In the United States, students from Harvard, Columbia, Cornell and other top educational institutions, who participated in pro-Palestine protests, faced arrests, suspensions, expulsions and even in some cases, were denied their degrees. Interestingly, many students walked out of the Harvard commencement ceremony in protest. Thousands of students across almost 130 US universities, as well as in Europe, Canada, and Australia, protested and held encampments against the ongoing Gaza War, demanding financial divestment from Israel or cutting academic ties with it.

Gen-Z, the most racially diverse generation, is often defined as “fluid”, and perceived as idealistic.

Despite facing arrests, raids, academic consequences, and backlash, the persistence of these protests led many universities, such as Northwestern, Brown and Evergreen State College, to concede to certain student demands.

In Bangladesh, the government crackdown during the student protests resulted in over 400 deaths, and with many injured. Despite severe repression by the state forces, the demonstrations went on, ultimately leading to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation. Protestors destroyed buildings and statues associated with Bangabandhu, Sheikh Mujib, Hasina’s father and the founding father of Bangladesh. Initially sparked by injustices in the quota system, the protests soon turned violent, with the ultimate goal of toppling an increasingly dictatorial government.

Sabrina Karim, a specialist in political violence, at Cornwell University, noted it as “the first successful Gen Z led revolution.” Reports also emerged of  students cleaning up the streets and managing traffic on the roads after the unrest subsided.

Similarly, in Taiwan, a highly politically aware youth protested against a pro-China parliamentary bill aimed at imposing tighter scrutiny on the new leader Lai Ching-te and his administration. Protesters surrounded the legislature, standing their ground even in adverse weather conditions, reflecting an unshaken resolve towards proactive measures.

In Iran, recent years have seen a crackdown by authorities against students at the University of Tehran after anti-government protests. The youth not only took to the streets but also launched a global social media campaign after the death of Mahsa Amini, highlighting the similar enthusiasm observed in their counterparts around the world.

What is common in all these seemingly isolated events, is the unwavering resolve, perseverance and bold defiance of youth in the face of harsh consequences.

FUTURE IMPLICATIONS:

Gen-Z is a proactive demographic, with a heightened consciousness of their political, social, cultural and economic landscapes, making them a highly influential and effective force. Born in unique times, they are coming of age during a pivotal shift in the world order. Shaped by the convergence of many factors, Gen-Z’s activism will have profound implications for the future. It is indicated by the trends they pioneered like value-driven consumerism, acceptance of non-traditional and diverse lifestyles and identities, digital advocacy, accountability and cultural inclusivity. The shift in perspectives, roles, and priorities will set the stage for future generations, like Gen-Alpha, to be more active in the political, social and economic circles.

This transformation is already influencing leadership requirements and government priorities. As the world prepares for seminal seismic shifts in the geopolitical landscape, Gen-Z is poised to play a decisive role in shaping the future, challenging established norms, and redefining the concept of global activism.