Political unrest can involve demonstrations, strikes and civil disturbances. It is usually a sign of political instability and can lead to the collapse of a government, either through peaceful or violent means.
A number of factors can drive political unrest, including economic inequality, a desire for systemic change, corruption, and climate change. These factors can exacerbate each other and often have socially conservative roots that are exploited by demagogues and nationalists for their own gain.
Inequality is a key driver of political unrest because it leads to grievances that can be leveraged by those seeking to undermine the established order. It also limits the capacity of governments to provide essential services and creates a breeding ground for mistrust of government institutions. The unequal distribution of wealth enables a few individuals to amass massive fortunes through their businesses, generational wealth, and other private channels while the majority struggles to make ends meet.
The growing divide between the wealthy and poor can also fuel a renaissance of identity politics, particularly along racial and ideological lines. This has contributed to the rise of white nationalism in the United States and the ethnic conflicts that have escalated into civil wars in India and Rwanda. In addition, a proliferation of false narratives and conspiracy theories stoke fears and deepen divisions. Educating people about how to identify misinformation can help quell violence that could be political in nature and prevent it from spiralling out of control.
About the Author
