Political unrest is the state of dissatisfaction and agitation that can lead to protests, strikes, and violence. It can be triggered by economic, social, or political factors that undermine people’s quality of life and their faith in government. These factors often include a sense of injustice, a feeling of alienation, and the exploitation of grievances by extremist groups. Corruption and ineffective governance can erode public trust and fuel conflict. Ethnic and religious identities can be manipulated by leaders seeking to mobilize supporters and justify violence. Fragile institutions may struggle to mediate conflicts, triggering escalating violence.
Climate change threatens livelihoods, causing food and water shortages and displacing populations. This creates a fertile environment for political unrest as affected communities demand action and relief.
Widespread inequality inspires social justice movements that can turn into protests or even revolutions. These movements often focus on long-standing inequities and injustices, gaining momentum through high-profile incidents of violence or discrimination. Globalisation and rapid cultural changes can erode traditional values and create a sense of identity loss. This can lead to frustration and a lack of hope, making people more susceptible to being recruited by radicalised groups.
Identifying the six root causes of political unrest can help you be prepared for potential disruptions. Be sure to have contingency plans for how you will conduct business or study, where and when you can access safe places to stay, and ways to reliably obtain food, water, and medications.
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