Political unrest is a form of social conflict that takes the form of protests, demonstrations, strikes, and other forms of civil disobedience. It often leads to violence and can destabilise a region.
It can be triggered by a variety of factors, including climate change, economic inequality, and social injustice. The interconnection of these factors creates a dynamic that can quickly escalate into a full-scale uprising, as people feel the need to demand action and relief from government officials.
The most common source of political unrest is economic inequality. This occurs when a small minority of individuals control the majority of the nation’s wealth and capital, while most citizens live on very little income. This leads to an increase in tensions between the wealthy and the poor, which is often exacerbated by the rise of identity politics, which exploits cultural and demographic differences for political gain.
Other causes of political unrest include corruption and oppression by a nation’s government. These factors can lead to a breakdown of democracy and a loss of basic human rights, such as freedom of speech and assembly. In these cases, the government will likely repress dissenting voices and opposition to their policies, which can fuel political unrest.
Ensure that you understand the local political situation before travelling to a country where there may be ongoing unrest. Consider the impact on transportation, school and business hours, as well as how to access critical services like food, water, and medication. Familiarise yourself with evacuation routes and ensure you have a go bag prepared in case you need to leave your accommodation during unrest.