This article reviews significant anti-government protests that have emerged globally since 2016, including the Candlelight protests in South Korea, the Estallido Social in Chile, farmer protests in India, and the anti-Semitism protests in Germany. Each instance underscores various social and political issues, from corruption and inequality to calls for justice and democratic reforms.
Since 2016, a surge of significant anti-government protests has emerged globally, mobilizing millions in response to various grievances, including economic disparity, political repression, corruption, and calls for democratic reform. This article examines notable instances of these impactful demonstrations using data from Statista.
One pivotal example occurred in South Korea from 2016 to 2017, known as the Candlelight Demonstrations. Triggered by a political scandal involving then-President Park Geun-hye, who allowed her confidante to manipulate state affairs, these peaceful protests culminated in the historic impeachment of a sitting president, marking a significant advance for South Korean democracy.
In Chile, a demonstration ignited in October 2019 over a minor subway fare increase in Santiago quickly transformed into a major social uprising, referred to as “Estallido Social” (Social Outburst). This movement highlighted profound issues related to economic inequality, social injustice, and widespread discontent with the political establishment, extending far beyond the original transportation concerns.
Similarly, in India, 2020 saw substantial protests by farmers, particularly from Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, against three agricultural laws perceived as threats to their livelihoods. Fears of corporate exploitation and the dismantling of support systems provoked a nationwide movement, drawing international attention and solidarity toward the farmers’ cause.
Most recently, Germany witnessed significant anti-Semitism protests from 2024 to 2025, where thousands marched in Berlin against rising anti-Semitic sentiments and violence. Organized by civil society groups and political parties, these demonstrations featured powerful slogans like “Never Again is Now” and “No Place for Hate,” and sparked similar protests in cities across the nation, reflecting a widespread commitment to combating hate.
In summary, since 2016, the world has experienced remarkable anti-government protests that reflect deep-seated societal issues. The Candlelight Demonstrations in South Korea, Chile’s Social Outburst, India’s farmer protests, and the recent anti-Semitism protests in Germany illustrate how citizens mobilize in response to corruption, inequality, and injustice. These movements signify not only the demands for change but also a global solidarity in advocating for democratic principles and human rights.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
