Gen-Z is speaking up like never before, and the world is taking notice. From uprisings in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Nepal to youth-led movements in France, the U.S. and Latin America, this generation is refusing to tolerate weak governance, concentration of powers, and unchecked decision-making. In India, young people are increasingly driving demands for transparency, accountability, and opportunities, pushing for education, jobs, and policies that reflect fairness, equality, and inclusivity.
This aspirational youth is reshaping expectations from governments everywhere, demanding responsive governance, democratic debate, and institutions that actually listen. Analysts note that India’s Gen-Z is connected, socially aware, and ready to hold leaders accountable, reflecting the trends seen globally. Their engagement sends a strong signal that policies, governance, and democratic systems must evolve to meet the expectations of a generation that is bold, digital-savvy, and unwilling to stay silent.
The observations came to the forefront during a seminar on “Overthrow of Governments in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Nepal – Lessons for Democratic Republic in India”, organised by Social Cause, a civil society think tank, on Sunday at Gallerina Mall, Madhapur. The event brought together policymakers, academics, and security experts to examine regional unrest and draw lessons for India.
R Radhakrishnan, OSD to Chairman, Telangana Council of Higher Education, noted that the absence of responsive governance is driving youth to raise their voices, often over economic issues. He cautioned that weakening institutions, ignoring diverse societal concerns, and neglecting basic needs can trigger unrest, adding that concentrated decision-making and lack of democratic debate contribute to spontaneous youth protests.
He also highlighted regional security concerns, noting that religious revivalism and demographic shifts in neighbouring countries could affect India. He stressed that a stable neighbourhood ensures India’s security, especially in the context of China’s growing influence in the region. Radhakrishnan called for democratization of education, making it affordable and accessible to all, not just the wealthy.
Meanwhile, Dr Sanjay Pulipaka, Chairperson, Politeia Research Foundation, pointed out that political centralization and identity crises in South Asian nations often cause unrest among marginalized groups. He warned that foreign powers continue to influence regional politics, and India must maintain autonomy in its foreign policy while supporting regional development.
Dr Ramesh Kanneganti, Director, Center for Human Security Studies, added that neglecting human security challenges national security. Ignoring local voices can lead to unrest, he cautioned, stressing that India should focus on trade, technology, talent, and tourism as tools to strengthen internal resilience.
Ch.V. Sai Prasad, Former Director, Indirect Taxes & Central Expenditure Audit (CAG), presiding over the meeting, emphasized that the current generation will not tolerate autocratic governance, especially when institutions are weakened.
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