The recent mass uprising in Nepal – preceded by similar movements in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Indonesia – is a matter of deep concern. These four are developing countries, and many observers attribute the unrest to socio-economic distress caused by corruption and misgovernance.

However, the current wave of protests in a developed country like France suggests that economic hardship and corruption cannot be the sole explanations. Something deeper seems to be driving this global pattern of unrest.

Different Causes, Same Pattern

While the triggers vary, the outcomes look strikingly similar:

• Sri Lanka: Food shortages and a severe economic crisis sparked protests.

• Bangladesh: Anger against the government’s alleged authoritarianism fueled demonstrations.

• Indonesia: Public outrage over perks and privileges for politicians set off the unrest.

• Nepal: The government’s decision to ban social media posts became a flashpoint.

• France: Austerity measures and proposed budget cuts triggered mass protests.

In almost every case, the uprisings followed a uniform pattern: street protests escalated into storming government buildings, occupying ministerial residences, vandalizing public property, and sometimes setting fire to symbolic sites. Fearful of physical assault, leaders and ministers often resign – some even flee abroad.

How Governments Respond

Typically, governments respond with force – sometimes opening fire on protestors. This results in casualties on both sides, further intensifying public anger and swelling the crowds.

The Protestors: Frustration Meets Mobilisation

In many developing countries, social and economic frustrations are widespread, especially among the youth. Their aspirations remain unmet, and they often view government inefficiency, nepotism, and corruption as the sole reasons for their plight.

This creates fertile ground for those seeking to destabilize society. Sustained hate campaigns against ruling elites – often amplified through social media – prepare the ground for street protests. When the moment comes, this discontent erupts, sometimes violently.

What Do Protests Achieve?

Interestingly, most mass uprisings last only a few days. Peace returns once the leaders of the government bow to mob pressure or step down. Those who incited the protests often emerge later to claim power.

Yet the core grievances – corruption, unemployment, economic stagnation – largely remain unresolved, with only cosmetic reforms implemented.

The Challenges for Political Researchers

These uprisings present a challenge for political scientists and analysts. Most occur suddenly, with little advance warning, catching governments unprepared.

One obvious reason is the disconnect between rulers and the ruled. Governments often fail to read the public mood or respond to simmering discontent in time.

Intelligence Failure

A strong intelligence network should be able to warn governments about rising unrest, allowing for early redressal of grievances. The suddenness of many recent uprisings points to intelligence lapses and a careless attitude by administrators.

External Interference and “Deep State”

Another question is whether all such uprisings are entirely domestic in nature. There are frequent suggestions in the media that some protests may be encouraged – or exploited – by foreign actors seeking geopolitical leverage, trade concessions, or strategic advantages. The presence of domestic power-hungry groups outside the government makes such interference easier.

Is It Really “Mass” Uprising?

Despite the term, these uprisings often involve only a small fraction of the population, usually youth. But a few thousand determined protestors are enough to paralyze a country, dominate global headlines, and force regime change.

The Way Forward

Mass uprisings have become a fine-tuned instrument for destabilizing governments – and are likely to occur more frequently. Some hail them as an expression of “people’s power” and a revolutionary force for change. But sustained instability is not healthy for any nation. The only real safeguard is good governance: policies that promote social equity, protect livelihoods, and are seen as fair and transparent. If governments ignore the warning signs, they take a calculated risk – one that could end in their overthrow. In the years ahead, dictators, monarchs, and authoritarians alike will increasingly face the wrath of the street.

(The author is the founder-director of Nandini Consultancy Centre and a current affairs commentator based in Chennai. Views are personal. He can be reached at nsvenkatchennai@gmail.com.)