Recent events in Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka highlight a pattern of citizen dissent across South Asia. These nations, spanning from Nepal in 2025 to Sri Lanka in 2022, have experienced significant protests against ruling parties. A common thread is the prominent role of Gen Z in these movements, which led to the ousting of key political figures. Adding another layer to this narrative, these three countries share a strong connection with China. This raises questions about the factors behind the unrest.
How did these protests begin?
Sri Lanka: Fueled by Economic Hardship
In Sri Lanka, the public’s anger over rising inflation and the government’s handling of the economy triggered protests in April 2022. The government responded by declaring a state of emergency and granting broad powers to security forces. Most of the cabinet resigned, isolating key leaders. The demonstrations escalated, turning violent by July, leading to the President’s departure.
Bangladesh: The Spark of Reservations
In Bangladesh, a two-month-long movement against job reservations turned violent on August 5, 2024. The protests resulted in a tragic loss of life, with a hundred fatalities in a single day. This sparked massive public demonstrations in Dhaka, marked by violence and property damage. The Prime Minister resigned and sought asylum.
Nepal: A Cry Against Corruption
In Nepal, Gen Z youth mobilized nationwide protests on September 8, targeting the government over corruption and unfulfilled promises. The protests, initially focused on issues like unemployment and economic concerns, took a turn towards violence after events at the parliament complex, leading to the Prime Minister’s resignation.
Who were the leaders of the protests?
Nepal: The Voice of Gen Z
In Nepal, the movement was spearheaded by Gen Z, those born after 1995. They are digital natives, who grew up with the Internet. A group called Hami Nepal played a vital role. Sudhan Gurung, a 36-year-old, emerged as a leader.
Bangladesh: Students and Citizens Unite
Nahid Islam, a student, led the protests in Bangladesh. He reported being abducted and later found unconscious.
Sri Lanka: A Public Outcry
In Sri Lanka, the protests were led by ordinary citizens, reflecting widespread frustration with the government’s policies.
What triggered the protests?
Nepal: Social Media and Corruption
In Nepal, the protests were about corruption, unemployment, and an economic downturn. The government’s decision to ban social media platforms also fueled the protests.
Bangladesh: Reservation Concerns
In Bangladesh, the job reservation system sparked the unrest, leading to large-scale student demonstrations and eventual government changes.
Sri Lanka: Economic Crisis and Corruption
Sri Lanka’s protests were driven by the economic crisis, rising prices, and corruption, triggering a series of events culminating in political upheaval.
How did the governments react?
Nepal: Force and Curfew
Nepal’s government responded with force, including tear gas and firing. A curfew was established.
Bangladesh: Violence and Loss of Life
Bangladesh’s government faced strong criticism for its handling of the protests, which resulted in numerous deaths and injuries.
Sri Lanka: Emergency Measures
Sri Lanka declared a state of emergency, but the protests continued.
What were the key slogans?
Nepal: The youth used the Nepo Kid trend and slogans like ‘Oli resign’.
Bangladesh: Slogans included ‘Justice for All’.
Sri Lanka: ‘Gota-Go-Gama’ meaning ‘Gotabaya, go to your village’.
China’s Influence
Nepal:
Nepal signed the BRI agreement. China has invested in infrastructure projects.
Bangladesh:
China has invested in BRI projects, removed import duties, and provided financial and military assistance.
Sri Lanka:
China has invested in ports, which has strengthened its position in the Indian Ocean. Sri Lanka has taken out substantial loans from China.
The protests share a common theme: governments failed to meet public expectations and tried to suppress dissent. The youth played a crucial role, leading to the removal of the ruling leaders.