The great Gen Z revolt

This episode examines the emergence of Gen Z protests across the globe, ignited by discontent with corrupt governments and social injustices. The discussion begins with the protests in Nepal, sparked by a controversial social media ban and the ostentatious lifestyles of politically connected youth, commonly referred to as 'Nepo babies'. Dr. Niana Prakash provides insights into how corruption, unemployment, and inequality fueled public outrage, leading to overwhelming youth participation in protests.

The conversations shift to other countries influenced by these events, such as Madagascar, where demonstrators echoed the sentiments of Nepali youths, and Morocco, where similar frustrations about governmental priorities culminated in protests. The narrative touches on the critical role of social media platforms like TikTok in unifying and organizing these movements, likening their importance to the role of Twitter during the Arab Spring.

The episode highlights the violent suppression of protests in various countries, detailing instances of police brutality and the sacrifices made by young protesters. Despite the tumultuous nature of these protests, many nations have seen political changes and shifts in leadership. The discussion also delves into the broader implications of these movements—exploring the decentralized nature of leadership and the potential for ongoing civil activism among youth worldwide, regardless of geographical or cultural divides. Ultimately, the podcast underscores a growing era of dissent among younger generations, signaling that their voices and frustrations are shaping political landscapes globally.