The year 2024 witnessed significant protests across the Global South, driven by frustrations over controversial government policies, political disputes, economic challenges, and demands for justice.
These events shook nations, leading to profound changes in some cases and issuing stark warnings for others. Here’s a summary of the most impactful demonstrations:
Bangladesh: Riots Over Job Quotas and PM’s Resignation
In August, widespread protests erupted in Bangladesh against a job quota system that reserved 56% of government positions for specific groups, leaving many young people disillusioned amidst rising unemployment. The unrest escalated after violent crackdowns resulted in over 300 deaths and thousands injured or detained. Protesters demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, citing corruption and suppression of dissent. The unrest led to schools closing, internet blackouts, and civil disobedience campaigns. Hasina eventually resigned and fled the country, marking a significant political shift.
Kenya: Tax Protests Spark Youth-Led Revolution
Kenya saw a wave of protests in August over new taxes introduced in the 2024/2025 Finance Bill, including levies on bread and vehicles. These measures, criticized for worsening the cost of living, ignited anger among youth, particularly “Gen Z” activists. The demonstrations, which began in June, claimed over 50 lives due to excessive police force. Despite attempts by President William Ruto to appease protesters by rolling back taxes and reshuffling his cabinet, demands for his resignation persisted.
Pakistan: Protests After Imran Khan’s Arrest
Protests erupted in May following the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan on corruption charges. Thousands of his supporters stormed government and military facilities, prompting a severe crackdown with nearly 1,400 arrests. Military courts sentenced 25 protesters to prison terms of up to 10 years, drawing criticism from Amnesty International and human rights groups. Khan, ousted in 2022, continues to accuse authorities of silencing opposition.
India: Outrage Over Doctor’s Murder Sparks Nationwide Protests
The brutal rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor in Kolkata in August sparked nationwide protests led by healthcare workers. The incident, which occurred after a 36-hour shift, highlighted issues of women’s safety. Protests included candlelight vigils and marches demanding reforms. Critics accused West Bengal’s government of negligence, while the investigation was transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation amidst public pressure.
Venezuela: Disputed Election Fuels Mass Protests
Venezuelans took to the streets in July after President Nicolás Maduro declared victory in a contentious election widely seen as fraudulent. Protesters clashed with security forces, demanding a fair vote count. Opposition leader Edmundo González claimed he won the election by a large margin. The international community, including the UN and the US, questioned the results, calling for transparency and fair elections.
Nigeria: Economic Crisis Ignites Widespread Protests
Nigeria faced unrest over President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, including the removal of fuel and electricity subsidies. Rising food prices and inflation left many struggling to afford basic goods, with the price of a 50kg bag of rice exceeding the minimum wage. Protests led to at least 13 deaths and hundreds of arrests as demonstrators demanded job creation, better governance, and policy reversals. The government’s response included force and curfews, intensifying public anger.
Conclusion:
The protests of 2024 reflected deep frustrations over governance, economic challenges, and social injustices. While some movements forced immediate change, others signaled long-term struggles for accountability and reform in the Global South.
