Jugendaktivismus / Youth activism
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Proteste, Streiks, Demonstrationen und Aufstände, die von Kindern und Jugendlichen initiiert wurden kommen häufiger vor, als allgemein angenommen wird. Hier liste ich in chronologische Reihenfolge Beispiele aus der ganzen Welt auf. Ich fasse sie auf Englisch zusammen, damit sie mehr Menschen erreichen.
Protests, strikes, demonstrations and uprisings initiated by children and youths occur more frequently than is generally assumed. Here I list examples from around the world in chronological order. I summarise them in English so that they reach more people.
Sugar Boycotts, Britain, 1790s–1820s
British children and families played a crucial role in the abolitionist movement by boycotting sugar produced on slave plantations. This nonviolent protest showcased the power of consumer activism, emphasising moral responsibility in everyday choices. The widespread participation demonstrated how even young individuals could contribute to societal change.
Further information: https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/georgian-children-refused-to-eat-slave-sugar-0frk8mcqn
Pinjarra Massacre Remembrance Protests, Australia, 1900s–ongoing
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth have been at the forefront of calls to remember and acknowledge the Pinjarra Massacre and other injustices faced by Indigenous peoples. Through protests, gatherings, and educational efforts, they advocate for reconciliation and historical justice. Their activism bridges generations in preserving culture and advocating for justice.
Further information: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pinjarra_massacre
Marlborough College Rebellion, England, November 1851
In November 1851, students at Marlborough College rebelled against harsh living conditions and mistreatment. The protest, involving both strikes and property damage, highlighted the growing discontent among young people in institutional settings. It served as a precursor to later demands for educational and workplace reforms.
Further information: https://www.marlboroughcollege.org/explore/our-history
Schoolboys’ Strike, Broken Hill, New South Wales, Australia, 1892
Young boys in the mining town of Broken Hill organised a strike to demand better wages for their labor in delivering ore. This action revealed the exploitation of child labor in industrial settings and the solidarity among youth workers. Their efforts mirrored larger labour movements advocating for fairer treatment.
Further information: https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/13881183
Further information: https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/13881429
Schoolhouse Blizzard Protests, USA, 1888
Following the devastating blizzard that struck the Great Plains and tragically claimed many young lives as they were caught in extreme weather during school commutes, children and families demanded better school infrastructure and emergency measures. This event raised awareness of rural education challenges and the need for safer conditions for students.
Further information: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schoolhouse_Blizzard
Matchgirls‘ Strike, East London, England, 1888
A group of young female workers, many of them teenagers, led a strike against the hazardous working conditions and poor pay at the Bryant and May match factory. Their bravery in standing up to powerful employers inspired widespread public support and ultimately led to improved labour conditions. This landmark protest became a turning point for labour rights in the UK.
Further information: https://www.matchgirls1888.org/the-story-of-the-strike
Further information: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matchgirls%27_strike
Bethnal Green School Strike, England, 1889
Schoolchildren in Bethnal Green walked out in protest against harsh discipline and excessive homework. The strike highlighted the dissatisfaction among young pupils with strict educational practices of the time. Their collective action reflected a rising awareness of children’s rights within the educational system.
Further information: https://libcom.org/article/schoolchildrens-strikes-1889-steven-johns
Llanelli School Strike, Wales, 1889
Students in Llanelli organized a strike to oppose corporal punishment and harsh treatment in schools. This protest demonstrated the growing demand for respect and fair treatment for children in educational institutions. The strike became part of a broader movement advocating for educational reform.
Further information: https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-58775671
Newsboys‘ Strike, New York, USA, 1899
Newsboys, many of them children, banded together to protest the unfair pricing policies of newspaper publishers like Joseph Pulitzer and William Randolph Hearst. The strike disrupted newspaper distribution and showcased the power of organised child laborers. Their perseverance became a symbol of youth-led labour activism in the USA.
Further information: https://www.boweryboyshistory.com
Września Children Strike, Poland, 1901–1904
Polish children in Września refused to participate in German language lessons imposed by occupying forces, sparking a prolonged strike. Their resistance became a symbol of cultural and national identity under oppressive regimes. This protest highlighted the role of youth in standing up for their heritage and language rights.
Further information: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wrze%C5%9Bnia_children_strike
March of the Mill Children, Pennsylvania, 1902–1904
The 1902 child labor strike in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was a pivotal moment in the fight against exploitative labor practices. Led by labour activist Mary Harris „Mother“ Jones, the strike involved thousands of textile workers, including children, demanding better working conditions, such as a reduced 55-hour workweek and an end to night shifts for women and children. This movement not only highlighted the harsh realities of child labor but also galvanised public support for labor reforms.
Further information: https://philadelphiaencyclopedia.org/essays/march-of-the-mill-children
Further information: https://jacobin.com/2019/09/a-labor-day-history-of-philadelphia-home-of-americas-first-general-strike
Mass School Walkouts, UK and Ireland, 1911
Thousands of students across the UK and Ireland staged walkouts, demanding better treatment and fairer conditions in schools. The protests addressed issues such as corporal punishment, poor facilities, and excessive fees. These widespread actions reflected a growing unity among young people advocating for systemic change.
Further information: https://libcom.org/article/childrens-strikes-1911-dave-marson
Burston School Strike, England, 1914–1939
What began as a protest against the dismissal of two beloved teachers evolved into a decades-long strike by students and their families. The Burston strike became a rallying point for workers‘ rights and the importance of equitable education. It remains the longest-running strike in history and a testament to community resilience.
Australian school strikes and direct action, Australia, 1914–ongoing
Australian schoolchildren have continuously engaged in strikes and protests over issues ranging from labour rights to climate change. These actions illustrate the enduring spirit of activism among the country’s youth. Their efforts have often brought national and international attention to important causes.
Further information: https://commonslibrary.org/when-the-bombs-drop-school-stops-eight-decades-of-australian-school-strikes-and-direct-action
Mau Movement Youth Participation, Samoa, 1920s–1930s
Adolescents played a significant role in the Mau independence movement, opposing colonial rule and advocating for Samoan self-determination. Despite facing repression, their courage helped sustain the movement and preserve Samoan culture and sovereignty.
Further information: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mau_movement
Further information: https://commonslibrary.org/mau-movement
Day of the Fallen Student (Día del Estudiante Caído), Venezuela, 1952–ongoing
Venezuelan youth commemorate fallen students annually while continuing the struggle for educational rights and political freedom. This tradition honors past sacrifices and inspires ongoing activism. The day reflects the enduring spirit of student-led movements.
Further information: https://centrodememoriahistorica.gov.co/dia-del-estudiante-caido-70-anos-de-violencia-policial-contra-el-movimiento-estudiantil
Claudette Colvin, USA, 1955
15 years old, Claudette Colvin bravely refused to give up her bus seat to a White passenger, defying segregation laws in Montgomery, Alabama. Her bold stand preceded Rosa Parks‘ more famous act and became an early catalyst for the Civil Rights Movement. Colvin’s courage exemplified the critical role of young people in fighting racist injustice.
Further information: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Claudette_Colvin
Further information: https://www.bbc.com/news/stories-43171799
Further information: https://www.blackhistorymonth.org.uk/article/section/campaigners-and-activists/claudette-colvin-the-teenage-revolutionary-who-ignited-a-movement
The Greensboro Sit-ins, North Carolina, USA, 1960
High school students joined college-led sit-ins to demand desegregation at lunch counters in Southern US states. Their courage in facing hostility and arrests amplified the Civil Rights Movement. The sit-ins demonstrated the determination of young activists to challenge racist injustice.
Further information: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greensboro_sit-ins
Further information: https://www.history.com/topics/black-history/the-greensboro-sit-in
The Vietnam War Protests, worldwide, 1960s–1970s
Adolescents joined widespread protests against the Vietnam War through school strikes, marches, and sit-ins. Their participation reflected growing disillusionment with military conflicts and global politics. These protests became a defining moment in youth activism worldwide.
Further information: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_protests_against_the_Vietnam_War
Children’s Crusade / Children’s March, Birmingham, Alabama, USA, May 1963
Thousands of African American schoolchildren marched in Birmingham, Alabama, to protest racial segregation and demand civil rights. Their courageous stand, despite facing arrests and brutality, drew national and international attention to the injustices of segregation. This pivotal moment helped galvanise support for the Civil Rights Movement.
Further information: http://encyclopediaofalabama.org/article/h-3944
The documentary film „The Children’s March“, made by the Southern Poverty Law Center, won an Oscar at the 77th Academy Awards for Documentary Short Subject in 2005:
Freiburg Price Struggles, Freiburg, West Germany, 1968
University students in Freiburg rallied against rising prices and economic inequality, sparking a wave of activism across Germany. These protests reflected broader discontent with social and economic systems during the 1960s. The movements also played a role in shaping the student activism culture of the era.
Further information: https://kommunikation.uni-freiburg.de/pm/online-magazin/lehren-und-lernen/es-lebe-die-demonstration
Further information: https://uni-freiburg.de/en/freiburg-students-mild-and-wild/
Schools Action Union (SAU), Britain, 1968–1974
The Schools Action Union emerged as a student-led organisation advocating for educational reform, better school facilities, and greater representation for students. The group organised protests and strikes, challenging traditional authority in schools. Their activism demonstrated the potential of collective action to address systemic issues.
Further information: https://jacobin.com/2017/10/scotland-corporal-punishment-britain-schools-action-union
Further information: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/318165243_Schools_Out_The_Hidden_History_of_Britain’s_School_Strikes_written_by_Steve_Cunningham_and_Michael_Lavalette
Earth Day, USA, 1970
The inaugural Earth Day on April 22, 1970, brought millions of young people together to raise awareness about environmental issues. Students organised events, protests, and clean-ups, pushing environmental concerns into the political spotlight. It marked the birth of a powerful global environmental movement driven by youth involvement.
Further information: https://outrider.org/climate-change/articles/letters-children-legacy-first-earth-day
Battle for Kelly’s Bush, Sydney, Australia, 1970
Local residents, including youth, joined forces to protest against urban development threatening the natural environment of Kelly’s Bush. This grassroots movement became one of Australia’s first successful green bans, preventing the destruction of the area. It demonstrated the effectiveness of community-driven environmental activism.
Further information: https://artsandculture.google.com/story/the-battle-for-kelly%E2%80%99s-bush-hunters-hill-council/VwVxFdIkegRZrw?hl=en
The Stepney Schoolchildren’s Strike, London, England, 27 May 1971
Children in Stepney protested against school closures and poor conditions, staging a walkout in solidarity with their teachers and communities. Their strike highlighted the impact of austerity measures on education. This protest united students, parents, and teachers in demanding better support for schools.
Further information: https://libcom.org/history/stepney-schoolchildrens-strike-1971
School Action Union Strike, London, England, May 1972
The Schools Action Union organised a mass strike involving thousands of students across London to demand more democratic and inclusive education policies. Protesters rallied against corporal punishment, rigid curricula, and lack of student representation. The strike underscored the desire for progressive changes in the education system.
Further information: http://pasttenseblog.wordpress.com/2020/05/17/today-in-londons-educational-history-1972-a-schools-action-union-strike-and-demonstration/
Further information: http://www.nickelinthemachine.com/2009/05/schools-out-in-london-and-steve-ginger-finch/
Soweto Youth Uprising, South Africa, 1976
Thousands of Black South African students protested against the imposition of Afrikaans as the medium of instruction in schools, which they saw as a symbol of apartheid oppression. The uprising was met with violent repression, resulting in killings but drawing global attention to the brutality of apartheid. It became a defining moment in the struggle against racist segregation.
Further information: https://www.sahistory.org.za/article/june-16-soweto-youth-uprising-timeline-1976-1986
Further information: https://www.spiegel.de/geschichte/soweto-aufstand-1976-der-anfang-vom-ende-der-apartheid-a-1097555.html
In addition to the Soweto Uprising, students were central to many anti-apartheid protests, boycotts, and demonstrations. These young activists resisted unjust policies, often at great personal risk, shaping the movement’s momentum.
MANTHOC (Movimiento de Adolescentes y Niños Trabajadores Hijos de Obreros Cristianos), Peru, 1976–ongoing
MANTHOC is a movement of working children advocating for their rights, dignity, and better working conditions in Peru. Founded in 1976, the organisation empowers young people to speak out against exploitation and poverty. Its long history underscores the resilience and determination of youth to fight for social justice.
Further information: https://pronats.org/en/information/the-childrens-movements/in-latin-america
El Mozote School Protests, El Salvador, 1980s
During the Salvadoran Civil War, students protested against military occupation of their schools and the disruption of education. Their activism highlighted the impact of armed conflicts on children’s lives. These protests called for peace and stability in war-torn communities.
Further information: https://jacobin.com/2016/12/el-mozote-el-salvador-war-reagan-atlacatl-massacre
Further information: https://jsis.washington.edu/humanrights/2018/01/03/mozote-36-years
Narmada Bachao Andolan Youth Protests, India, 1980s–ongoing
While the broader movement opposes the displacement caused by dam projects on the Narmada River, many youth and children have joined protests to advocate for their right to education, a stable home, and environmental sustainability. Their involvement highlights the intersection of environmental and human rights concerns.
Further information: https://www.cheggindia.com/general-knowledge/narmada-bachao-movement
Landless Workers‘ Movement (MST), Brazil, 1980s–ongoing
Children and adolescents have actively participated in the MST, advocating for land reform and equitable access to education in rural communities. Their involvement has drawn attention to the plight of landless families and the vital role of education in breaking cycles of poverty.
Further information: https://www.brasildefato.com.br/2020/02/01/mst-children-hand-in-manifesto-to-brazil-s-ministry-of-education
The Liverpool School Strike, Liverpool, England, 1985
Students in Liverpool staged a walkout to protest school funding cuts and poor educational resources. Their strike emphasised the impact of government austerity measures on education. This action reinforced the importance of youth-led advocacy in securing better opportunities.
Further information: https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2016/jul/05/we-took-on-the-tories-and-won-liverpool-striking-schoolkids
Tiananmen Square Protests and Massacre, China, 1989
Students and young adults gathered in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square to demand political reforms, greater freedoms, and an end to corruption. The peaceful protests were tragically met with military violence, resulting in a devastating loss of life. This moment became a powerful symbol of resistance against authoritarianism and the quest for democracy.
Further information: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1989_Tiananmen_Square_protests_and_massacre
Anti-Militarisation Protests, Okinawa, Japan, 1990s–ongoing
Youth in Okinawa have protested against the heavy presence of US military bases on their island, advocating for peace, environmental protection, and local sovereignty. Their persistence has kept the issue of militarisation in the public eye. Their activism underscores the role of young people in long-standing political struggles.
Further information: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Protests_against_the_US_military_presence_in_Okinawa
Further information: https://www.opendemocracy.net/en/anti-us-military-base-struggle-in-okinawa-japan
School Strike, West Germany, January 1991
In January 1991, thousands of schoolchildren in West Germany organised a strike to protest the Gulf War. Their actions reflected widespread opposition to the conflict and concerns about its global implications. This strike demonstrated the power of youth in voicing their stance on international issues.
Further information: https://taz.de/Archiv-Suche/!1736708
Qeerroo, National Youth Movement for Freedom and Democracy, Ethiopia, 1991–ongoing
Qeerroo, a youth-led movement in Ethiopia, emerged as a powerful force advocating for democracy, human rights, and social justice. Its members have played a pivotal role in challenging authoritarian rule and promoting political change. The movement demonstrates the enduring impact of organised youth activism.
Further information: https://qeerroo.org
Children’s Panchayat in Karnataka, India, 1995–ongoing
Established in 1995, the children’s panchayat in Karnataka empowers young people to voice their concerns and advocate for their rights in governance. This innovative initiative encourages children to participate in decision-making processes and address issues like education, child labor, and gender equality. It represents a unique model of child-led advocacy and leadership.
Further information: https://oneworld.net.in/focus-area/knowledge-and-research/childrens-panchayat-in-karnataka
Youth Without Borders (Jugendliche ohne Grenzen), Germany, 2005–ongoing
This youth-led movement in Germany advocates for the rights of refugees and migrants, particularly young people. By organising protests, campaigns, and educational programs, the group raises awareness about immigration policies and promotes inclusion. Their activism underscores the importance of solidarity and human rights.
Further information: http://jogspace.net
Child Activism for Ending Child Marriage, Bangladesh, 2005–ongoing
Children in Bangladesh educate their communities about child rights and marriage laws, investigate cases of underage marriages, and collaborate with local officials to prevent such practices. Their efforts have led to significant successes, including stopping numerous child marriages, and they continue to advocate for systemic changes.
Further information: Child activism to end child marriage final.pdf
April 6 Youth Movement, Egypt, 2008
The April 6 Youth Movement was instrumental in mobilising young people during the 2011 Egyptian Revolution. It began as a network supporting labour strikes and evolved into a major force advocating for political change. The movement highlights the power of youth in driving democratic transitions.
Further information: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/April_6_Youth_Movement
Further information: https://6aprilmove.blogspot.com
Equal Education Movement, South Africa, 2008–ongoing
Equal Education (EE) is a youth-led mass democratic movement of learners, post-school youth, parents, teachers and community members who use mobilisation and public action, supported by careful research, to empower young activists and ensure equality in South African education.
Further information: https://equaleducation.org.za/our-movement
Malala Yousafzai, Pakistan, 2009
At 11 years of age, Malala Yousafzai began advocating for girls‘ education in Pakistan, speaking out against the Taliban’s oppressive policies. After surviving a horrific assassination attempt in 2012, she became a global symbol of resilience and the fight for education. Malala’s activism earned her the Nobel Peace Prize, inspiring countless young people worldwide.
Further information: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malala_Yousafzai
Protests Against Child Marriage, Malawi, 2010s–ongoing
Malawian adolescents, particularly girls, have organised rallies and awareness campaigns to end child marriage and promote girls‘ education. Their advocacy has contributed to legislative changes and greater societal recognition of the issue.
Further information: https://www.ohchr.org/en/stories/2020/11/malawi-one-womans-fight-against-child-marriage
Chilean Winter Protests, Chile, 2010s–ongoing
Chilean students, including many high schoolers, have led protests against rising educational fees and inequality in access to quality schooling. Their efforts have sparked nationwide debates about education reform.
Further information: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2011%E2%80%932013_Chilean_student_protests
Indignados Movement, Spain, 2011
Young Spaniards were at the forefront of the Indignados movement, which protested economic inequality, unemployment, and political corruption. The grassroots protests, often occupying public spaces, demanded systemic changes to address social injustices. Their actions inspired similar movements worldwide, including Occupy Wall Street.
Further information: https://jacobin.com/2021/05/indignados-podemos-15m-pablo-iglesias
Occupy Movement’s Youth Involvement, worldwide, 2011–2012
High school students joined Occupy protests to address economic inequality and environmental concerns. Their voices added urgency to the movement’s call for systemic change. This global wave of activism united youth in envisioning a juster future.
Further information: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/1103308817713584
The Umbrella Movement, Hong Kong, 2014
Named after the umbrellas used to shield protesters from tear gas, this youth-led movement called for greater democratic freedoms in Hong Kong. Students played a central role in the protests, which sparked international attention and debate. The movement became a symbol of resistance against political repression.
Further information: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2014_Hong_Kong_protests
Standing Rock Youth-led Protest, USA, 2016
Youth from the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe organised a historic protest against the Dakota Access Pipeline, which threatened their water supply and sacred land. Their leadership brought global attention to Indigenous rights and environmental justice.
Further information: https://www.nytimes.com/2017/01/31/magazine/the-youth-group-that-launched-a-movement-at-standing-rock.html
Kasseler Schulstreik, Kassel, Germany, 2017
Students in Kassel organised a strike to protest cuts in school funding and deteriorating conditions in education. Their action brought public attention to the importance of investing in quality education. The strike highlighted the role of students in advocating for systemic improvements.
Further information: https://www.spiegel.de/lebenundlernen/schule/kassel-schueler-streiken-wegen-maroder-schulen-a-1182677.html
School Protests, Cameroon, 2017–2021
In the Anglophone regions of Cameroon, schoolchildren protested against the ongoing violence and attacks on education during the country’s separatist conflict. These protests highlighted the devastating impact of the crisis, which included school closures, threats to students and teachers, and the destruction of educational facilities. The movement underscored the resilience of youth in advocating for their right to safe and accessible education despite significant challenges.
Further information: https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/dec/16/they-punished-me-for-having-books-schools-in-cameroon-terrorised-by-armed-groups
Amika George & Free Periods Organisation, UK, 2017-today
Amika George, as a teenager, founded the Free Periods campaign to tackle period poverty in the UK. Through protests, petitions, and advocacy, the organisation successfully pressured the government to provide free menstrual products in schools. This movement highlights the power of young activists in addressing stigmatised social issues.
Further information: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amika_George
Further information: https://www.freeperiods.org
Road-Safety Protests, Bangladesh, 2018
After a tragic accident involving two pupils, thousands of schoolchildren in Bangladesh organised protests demanding improved road safety and stricter traffic regulations. The movement gained significant public support and brought national attention to the issue. It showcased the determination of youth to drive policy change and protect their communities.
Further information: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2018_Bangladesh_road-safety_protests
Further information: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-45080129
Never Again MSD and March for Our Lives, USA, 2018
Following the deadly Parkland school shooting, students from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School launched Never Again MSD and initiated the March for Our Lives movement to advocate for gun control. Their activism mobilised millions across the US, sparking a renewed debate on gun violence. Their efforts demonstrated the ability of young people to lead powerful social movements.
Further information: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Never_Again_MSD
Further information: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/March_for_Our_Lives
Greta Thunberg and Fridays for Future (FFF) / School Strike for Climate, Sweden, 2018–ongoing
Swedish teenager Greta Thunberg began a solitary school strike for climate action, inspiring millions of young people worldwide to join the Fridays for Future movement. These protests demand urgent action from governments to address the climate crisis. Greta’s leadership highlights the role of youth in tackling global environmental challenges.
Further information: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greta_Thunberg
Further information: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fridays_for_Future
Pro-Democracy Protests, Hong Kong, 2019
Young people in Hong Kong played a central role in the 2019 pro-democracy protests, demanding greater autonomy and freedoms. Their actions included large-scale marches, sit-ins, and creative demonstrations. These protests became a global symbol of youth resistance against political oppression.
Further information: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/dec/15/children-of-the-revolution-the-hong-kong-youths-ready-to-sacrifice-everything
Extinction Rebellion Youth, Britain, 2019
Extinction Rebellion Youth, a branch of the global environmental movement, focuses on empowering young people to demand climate justice and systemic change. Their protests often involve nonviolent civil disobedience to draw attention to the climate emergency. The group reflects the growing urgency of youth-led environmental activism.
Further information: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Extinction_Rebellion_Youth
Global Climate Strike, Planet Earth, worldwide, 2019
Millions of young people across the globe participated in the Global Climate Strike, demanding immediate action to combat climate change. Inspired by Greta Thunberg, this unprecedented mobilisation highlighted the shared concerns of youth worldwide. The strike underscored the power of collective action in addressing environmental crises.
Further information: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/gallery/2019/sep/20/global-climate-strike-millions-protest-worldwide-in-pictures
End SARS Protests, Nigeria, 2020
High school students joined young Nigerians in protesting police brutality and systemic injustice under the End SARS (Special Anti-Robbery Squad) movement. Their participation amplified calls for accountability and reform. The protests became a powerful display of youth-led resistance to inequality.
Further information: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/End_SARS
The White Ribbon Movement, Thailand, 2020
Thai students and young activists wore white ribbons as part of their protests demanding democratic reforms and greater freedoms. The movement utilised social media and creative symbolism to spread its message. It became a significant example of youth-driven resistance against authoritarian rule.
Further information: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/349414517_The_white_ribbon_movement_high_school_students_in_the_2020_Thai_youth_protests
Blockade Protests, Gaza, Palestine, 2021
Palestinian youth in Gaza organised protests to draw attention to the humanitarian crisis caused by the blockade. Their actions highlighted the resilience of young people living under challenging circumstances. The protests emphasised the need for global attention and solidarity.
Further information: https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20210824-gaza-children-unleash-balloons-into-sky-demand-end-to-israeli-blockade
Bildungswende JETZT!, Germany, 2024–ongoing
This youth-led initiative in Germany advocates for systemic reforms in education, including better funding, equitable access, and climate-conscious curricula. By organising protests and campaigns, the movement seeks to address the challenges facing the education system. It exemplifies the ongoing commitment of young people to shaping a better future.
Further information: https://www.bildungswende-jetzt.de
Serbian Student Protests, Belgrade, Serbia, 2024–ongoing
Students in Belgrade have recently mobilised to demand educational reforms, better facilities, and greater democratic representation in universities. Their protests reflect broader frustrations with systemic issues in the Serbian education system. The movement underscores the enduring role of youth in advocating for progressive change.
Further information: https://www.rferl.org/a/serbian-protests-vucic-students/33293716.html
Further information: https://mihajlovicfreiburg.com/2025/03/04/demokratisches-organisieren-im-plenum-von-studentinnen-lernen/
Further Reading?
Take a look at this open-access article: E. Kay M. Tisdall and P. Cuevas-Parra (2022): Beyond the familiar challenges for children and young people’s participation rights: the potential of activism. The International Journal of Human Rights 26(5): 792–810.
Aktualisiert: 10.03.2025