Across South Asia and Africa, their peers have taken bold political action: protesters in Nepal brought down a government in 48 hours, youth in Madagascar toppled their leader, and frustrated Indonesians and Bangladeshis forced sweeping reforms through mass protests. In India, however, the country’s young generation appears wary of confrontation, constrained by fear, fragmentation, and disillusionment.

Digital Awareness, Real-World Restraint

India’s youth are more informed than ever. Smartphones, social media, and citizen media expose them daily to debates on corruption, inequality, and governance. But while online engagement flourishes, offline activism faces deep barriers.

“Taking to the streets feels risky,” says 23-year-old political science graduate Dhairya Choudhary. “You risk being branded anti-national.”

That label, often used by politicians and TV anchors to discredit dissent, has made public protest a dangerous act. Many students and young professionals fear social or professional repercussions if they are seen challenging authority.

This caution contrasts sharply with their peers abroad, who have mobilized through encrypted apps and decentralized networks. India’s young generation, by contrast, channels much of its frustration into digital spaces — where heated debates on platforms like Reddit and X (formerly Twitter) remain deeply divided.

Fragmented Anger, Local Battles

Despite shared frustrations over unemployment, corruption, and inequality, India’s Gen Z lacks a unifying cause. Youth activism here tends to flare around local or identity-based issues rather than national movements.

“I don’t see a single force uniting us,” says Vipul Kumar, a 26-year-old journalist from Bihar. “Power in India is decentralised, and so is the anger of its youth.”

Experts agree. Sudhanshu Kaushik, founder of the Centre for Youth Policy, calls India an “outlier” in regional youth politics. “Age is not the only differentiator,” he explains. “Young people are aligned with regional, linguistic, and caste identities, often putting them at odds with one another.”

In practice, that means different causes dominate in different regions:

• Urban youth rally around job opportunities and infrastructure.

• Dalit youth focus on caste discrimination and social justice.

• Tamil youth mobilize over language rights and regional autonomy.

• Upper-caste youth in Gujarat and Haryana have protested for affirmative action.

This complex patchwork of priorities makes it difficult for a national youth movement to emerge — even as discontent simmers across social classes.

Fear and Fatigue in India’s Campuses

India’s universities once served as hotbeds of political mobilization, from the anti-Emergency protests of the 1970s to the student uprisings of the 2010s. But in recent years, that tradition has waned.

“These institutions, once centres of anti-government activism, have lost that spirit,” says 23-year-old researcher Hajara Najeeb.

Campus restrictions, tightened surveillance, and disciplinary threats have discouraged open political expression. The 2019 protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) — one of the largest youth-led movements in decades — ended with violent crackdowns at Delhi’s Jamia Millia Islamia and Aligarh Muslim University.

Student leader Umar Khalid remains in jail five years later, accused of being a “key conspirator” in the 2019 Delhi riots — allegations he denies. Such outcomes, say activists, have deterred many young Indians from future demonstrations.

“The government has demonised protest to such an extent that few people even think of protesting,” says Jatin Jha, a 26-year-old youth fellow at the State Bank of India.

A Generation Redefining Politics

Despite low street visibility, India’s Gen Z is not politically apathetic. Many engage online, volunteer locally, or focus on personal advancement as a form of quiet resistance. However, only 38% of 18-year-olds registered to vote in the 2024 general election — a figure analysts say reflects growing disillusionment with traditional politics.

A survey by a citizen media platform found that 29% of young Indians avoid politics altogether. Yet paradoxically, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) continues to maintain strong youth support — 40% in 2019 and only slightly less in 2024 — suggesting that political engagement, when it occurs, often aligns with nationalist narratives.

Sociologist Dipankar Gupta believes this reflects a generational pattern: “Youth energy is fleeting. Each generation finds its own causes rather than inheriting old ones.”

Economic Pressure and Quiet Aspiration

While the government promotes youth empowerment through employment schemes and entrepreneurship initiatives, economic anxiety remains pervasive.

“India may be doing better than many countries, but unemployment anxiety continues to grow,” Kaushik says. “Young people are taking things into their own hands — with migration abroad increasing year after year.”

For many, leaving the country now feels more achievable than reforming it. This shift toward individual survival over collective protest reflects both pragmatism and fatigue.

Still, scattered sparks of activism persist — from Ladakh’s recent protests for statehood to local campaigns for environmental justice, education reform, and gender equality. Whether these movements can merge into a larger political awakening remains uncertain.

A Watchful, Wary Generation

India’s Gen Z has inherited a legacy of protest but lives in an era where dissent is often stigmatized. Their silence does not necessarily mean apathy; rather, it signals a generation calculating the cost of confrontation.

They are restless but cautious, informed yet disillusioned — their activism migrating from the streets to the screens. As one youth observer put it: “They’re not marching, but they’re watching — and waiting for their moment.”

Source: BBC – Gen Z rising? Why young Indians aren’t taking to the streets

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This donation is one of the largest ever, surpassing even the legendary contributions of industrialists like John D. Rockefeller and Andrew Carnegie when adjusted for inflation. Only Warren Buffett’s pledge to donate his fortune, valued at around $160 billion, could surpass it, depending on market fluctuations.

A Lasting Legacy with an Expedited Timeline

Gates’ donation will be spread over the next two decades, enabling the foundation to continue its vital work, including funding medical advancements and educational initiatives, with an additional $200 billion in resources. Gates is thrilled to have such significant funds to contribute to these causes, saying, “It’s kind of thrilling to have that much to be able to put into these causes.”

This announcement not only reaffirms Gates’ commitment to global health and education but also signals the end of the foundation’s global influence. “I think 20 years is the right balance between giving as much as we can to make progress on these things and giving people a lot of notice that now this money will be gone,” Gates said, acknowledging that the 20-year timeframe offers clarity while still allowing for substantial impact.

The Foundation’s Unmatched Influence and Reach

Since its inception in 2000, the Gates Foundation has been a trailblazer in global health, often working in partnership with governments and private sectors to provide affordable treatments for low- and middle-income countries. With an estimated 41% of its funds coming from Warren Buffett, the foundation has spent over $100 billion on global health initiatives.

Despite facing criticism over its considerable influence on world health policy, the foundation has consistently delivered positive results, particularly in reducing childhood deaths and preventing diseases like polio and malaria. Gates credits the foundation’s global health work as “way more impactful than I expected,” calling it his “second and final career.”

A Push for Immediate Impact, A Plan for the Future

Looking ahead, Gates is focused on ensuring that the remaining funds will address critical issues such as polio eradication, controlling deadly diseases, and alleviating malnutrition. “Having that time horizon and the resources just puts an even greater burden on us to say, ‘Are you actually putting your resources on what are going to be the biggest, most successful bets?’” said Mark Suzman, the foundation’s CEO.

The foundation’s $9 billion annual budget is expected to be directed towards top priorities, with some uncertainty about which programs will be sustained in the final 20 years.

The Changing Landscape of Philanthropy

The foundation has undergone significant changes recently, with Bill and Melinda French Gates divorcing in 2021 and Buffett stepping down as a trustee. In 2024, French Gates left to focus on her own organization, Pivotal Ventures, leaving Bill Gates as the sole remaining founder. French Gates cited her desire to combat the rollback of women’s rights in the U.S. as part of the reason for her departure.

Despite the challenges, including global conflicts and economic uncertainty, Gates remains optimistic about the foundation’s ability to continue making an impact. “It’s incredible to come up with these low-cost things, and tragic if we can’t get them out to everyone who needs them,” he said. Gates is determined to see these innovations reach those who need them most, stressing the importance of continued support from wealthy donors.

The Road Ahead: Uncertainty and Hope

Gates recognizes that the path ahead will be fraught with challenges. Ongoing crises such as the conflict in Ukraine and economic instability may result in fewer resources for global health initiatives. However, Gates believes in the potential for a renewed commitment to those in need: “It’s going to require renewing that commitment of those who are well off to help those who are in the greatest need.”

As Gates prepares to focus on his remaining years of giving, he remains hopeful that his legacy, and that of the foundation, will continue to shape the future of philanthropy long after it closes its doors in 2045.

Source: AP News – Bill Gates pledges his remaining fortune to the Gates Foundation, which will close in 20 years

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Thailand has taken a significant step in loosening long-standing rules about students’ appearances, with the country’s highest administrative court striking down a directive that required strict hair regulations for students, in place since 1975. This marks a major victory for students and activists who have campaigned for greater personal freedom in schools.

A Rigid Tradition Comes to an End

For decades, Thai students, especially boys, were required to maintain an army-style crew cut, while girls had to sport short, ear-length bobs. The rules were enforced so strictly that even a few centimeters over the limit could result in embarrassing punishment. Students faced severe consequences for any deviation from the set standards, with some even subjected to public humiliation.

One such student, Khao Klong (now 20, studying at university), remembers the shame of being singled out for his hair being “too long” in high school. “It made me feel insecure, like I was being made into a joke,” he recalls of the day he was forced to have his hair shaved in front of the entire school.

A Turning Point: Court Ruling and Public Outcry

The oppressive hairstyle rule has been an emblem of Thailand’s conservative, hierarchical culture — and its military-influenced education system. But in March, after decades of protests and complaints from students, the administrative court ruled that these regulations were unconstitutional. The court stated that they “imposed excessive restrictions on personal freedom” and violated the Thai Constitution. Moreover, the ruling emphasized the negative impact such policies had on students’ mental health, particularly those with diverse gender identities.

This decision followed the country’s student-led protests in 2020, which called for more personal freedoms in schools, including the right to express themselves through their appearances. These protests were part of a larger movement that challenged Thailand’s military-backed government and its rigid norms.

Changing Times, Changing Rules

The court’s decision is being welcomed by many students, including 16-year-old Nijchaya Kraisriwattana, who remembers the stress of weekly hair checks. “We used to have academic points deducted for minor things like my hair being a little too long,” she says. But now, the rules feel “more relaxed,” she notes.

However, not all students are convinced that real change is happening. Some worry that individual schools will still impose harsh rules despite the court ruling, leaving students with little recourse. Khao Klong, who once led protests for student rights, points out that the battle isn’t over just because the law has changed. “We haven’t seen much change yet,” he says.

A Glimpse of the Past: Military Influence and Conformity

The strict dress codes were a reflection of Thailand’s long-standing military influence and its desire to cultivate disciplined, obedient citizens. The rules were implemented during a military dictatorship in the 1970s, a time when authoritarianism shaped much of Thailand’s social and political systems.

For years, this rigid structure has extended beyond haircuts, enforcing strict uniform requirements — even down to the exact type of socks students could wear. Khao Klong remembers how teachers would beat students for perceived “discipline” issues, a practice that was widespread in his school years.

Despite protests in 2013 that slightly relaxed the rules, the dress code remained a hotly contested issue until 2020, when student-led movements called for broader reforms to the education system. These protests were influenced by the larger pro-democracy movement that challenged the military-drafted constitution and called for more freedoms.

Student Activism and the Road Ahead

During these protests, students adopted symbols of resistance, including the three-finger salute made famous by the Hunger Games films, to show their defiance. One striking moment came when students shaved their heads in protest, as a symbol of rejecting outdated norms.

Now, with the court ruling officially declaring the hairstyle rules unconstitutional, activists like Khao Klong are hopeful that the push for more student rights will gain further momentum. However, he and others stress that the real work lies in ensuring that schools respect this newfound freedom and allow students to shape their own identities without fear of punishment.

Khao Klong’s activism was sparked by his own painful experience of being publicly humiliated, but he remains determined to keep fighting for students’ rights to this day. “We haven’t stopped fighting for freedom, we’ve just been distracted by life,” he says. “The memory of that feeling of being oppressed still lingers, and we won’t forget it.”

Looking Forward

While the court ruling is a significant step forward, educational experts like Thunhavich Thitiratsakul caution that change must be implemented carefully. Schools now need to engage with communities and reconsider their rules. But the question remains: Will students have a seat at the table?

As this issue continues to unfold, many students like Nijchaya hope for even greater freedoms, like the ability to wear T-shirts and jeans. “Yes, absolutely,” she says when asked if she wants more freedom in her clothing. The struggle for personal expression and freedom continues, but Thailand’s students have now taken a bold step toward rewriting the rules.

Source: – After 50 years, Thailand finally strikes down strict rules on students’ hair lengths

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As Dr. Vivek Murthy prepares to step down as the U.S. Surgeon General, his final message to the American people is clear: the nation’s health crisis is rooted in a lack of community, and the remedy lies in rebuilding strong, supportive connections. After serving two terms, Murthy’s assessment of the country’s well-being reveals a growing deficiency in human connection, which has contributed to widespread unhappiness and poor health outcomes.

In an essay published Tuesday, Dr. Murthy offers his “parting prescription” for healing the country—one that emphasizes the importance of community. “Community is a powerful source of life satisfaction and life expectancy,” he wrote. “It’s where we know each other, help each other, and find purpose in contributing to each other’s lives.” He believes that by fostering relationships, acts of service, and a sense of purpose, Americans can improve their mental and physical health.

The Power of Connection, Service, and Purpose

Murthy outlines three key elements essential to creating a fulfilling life: relationships, service to others, and a sense of purpose. He contrasts these values with modern concepts of success, which often prioritize wealth, fame, and power. “The triad of success is focused on the individual. The triad of fulfillment connects us with something bigger than the individual,” he explains. “The triad of success may earn us praise and possessions, but the triad of fulfillment gives us meaning and belonging.”

These elements, Murthy argues, are time-tested pathways to life satisfaction, in stark contrast to the hollow pursuits of individual achievement. Building community through connection, helping others, and finding a sense of purpose provides lasting fulfillment and strengthens personal well-being.

Tackling Social Isolation and Mental Health

Throughout his tenure, Dr. Murthy has addressed several public health crises, including addiction, youth mental health, and the negative impact of social media. He highlights how platforms designed to connect people have, ironically, contributed to loneliness. “Social media has turbocharged a culture of constant comparison that too often undermines our self-worth,” he wrote. Murthy explains that the quest for approval and validation through likes and followers is not only unfulfilling, but harmful.

Murthy’s reflections, though not scientific reports, cite multiple studies supporting the link between social connectivity and better health outcomes. He emphasizes that social disconnection increases the risk of heart disease, dementia, depression, and early death, with a significant portion of the population experiencing loneliness. “A third of adults and half of young people experience loneliness,” he noted.

On the flip side, a sense of purpose is proven to benefit mental and physical health. Studies show that individuals with a strong sense of purpose are at a lower risk for premature death, stroke, dementia, and depression. A high sense of purpose also fosters resilience in the face of stress, Murthy explains.

The Pandemic’s Role in Deepening Isolation

The COVID-19 pandemic only intensified the feelings of isolation that were already widespread in the U.S. But Murthy points out that the damage to American well-being goes beyond the pandemic. He writes that divisiveness within the country has eroded collective trust, making it harder for people to rise above common challenges together. “It is fueling not only illness and despair on an individual level, but also pessimism and distrust across society,” Murthy observes.

As he concludes his tenure, Murthy urges the nation to prioritize rebuilding a sense of community. “Choose community,” he implores, offering this as his final wish for the American people.

The Future of the Surgeon General’s Office

Dr. Janette Nesheiwat, a family physician and medical contributor to Fox News, has been nominated to replace Dr. Murthy as Surgeon General in the new administration under President Trump. Health experts have expressed mixed views on her appointment, particularly with the potential inclusion of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.—a prominent anti-vaccine activist—leading the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The coming administration may present challenges for those advocating for science-based public health policies.

As Murthy leaves his post, his message remains clear: to heal the nation, America must focus on strengthening its sense of community. This shift, he believes, can lead to a healthier, more fulfilled society for all.

Source

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Walmart, the largest private employer in the U.S., has announced changes to its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs following scrutiny from conservative activist Robby Starbuck. The retail giant has decided not to renew a racial equity center it established after the 2020 murder of George Floyd and will no longer participate in the Human Rights Campaign’s LGBTQ+ benchmark index.

Starbucks claimed he held “productive conversations” with Walmart after warning the company about a report he was preparing on corporate “wokeness.” He praised Walmart’s actions, stating:

“Removing wokeness from Walmart has downstream effects on suppliers and sets the tone for corporate America. Changing the operating policies at a nearly $1 trillion company is a monumental achievement.”

Changes to Walmart’s DEI Policies

Walmart has also pledged to:

• Monitor third-party products for inappropriate sexual or transgender items marketed to children.
• Review Pride funding.
• Discontinue the use of the term “Latinx” in official communications.

However, Walmart emphasized that many of these changes were already in progress. For instance, the company had rebranded its DEI efforts to focus on “belonging” and revised its supplier diversity programs.

In an official statement, Walmart expressed its commitment to inclusivity:

“We’ve been on a journey and know we aren’t perfect, but every decision comes from a place of wanting to foster belonging, open doors to opportunities, and be a Walmart for everyone.”

Broader Context: DEI Under Fire

The rollback comes amidst a broader political shift in the U.S. Corporate diversity efforts, while generally supported by younger generations, are increasingly under attack. The 2023 Supreme Court ruling banning race considerations in college admissions has emboldened critics of workplace DEI programs.

High-profile boycotts, such as those targeting Bud Light and Target, have pushed some brands to distance themselves from LGBTQ+ marketing. Activists like Starbuck have influenced companies like Ford and Lowe’s to reassess their DEI initiatives.

DEI has also become a hot topic for the 2024 elections, with former President Donald Trump vowing to restrict DEI initiatives in companies that work with the federal government.

The State of DEI in Corporate America

Despite these challenges, most companies remain committed to their DEI efforts. A survey by The Conference Board found that over 60% of executives view the political climate as extremely challenging for DEI, yet fewer than 10% plan to scale back their commitments in the next three years.

Proponents argue that DEI programs benefit businesses by fostering innovation, attracting diverse talent, and improving workplace culture. However, many companies, including Walmart, are hesitant to openly discuss their DEI strategies.

The future of DEI in corporate America hangs in the balance as businesses navigate increasing political and public scrutiny.

Source

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