Gen Z movements have helped overturn elected governments in Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka. Elections have returned each country to democratic rule. But new leaders continue to face challenges arising from their inexperience, economic and demographic pressures, and external shocks. How far can these governments deliver for their young people?
This event discusses:
- What do these Gen Z movements say about the state of democracy in South Asia?
- Will South Asian governments be able to address the economic distress that fuelled these movements?
- How will demographic pressure from young, aspirational populations shape policy agendas in these countries?
- What role could social media play in stoking renewed unrest?
- How are shocks from humanitarian disasters (such as the flash floods in Nepal) and geopolitics (such as the conflict in the Gulf) affecting these governments?
- How does India’s youth-led movement compare to that of its neighbours?
- How will relations with China and India shape their choices?
