Tick, tick ... boom

Revolutions, though predictable in hindsight due to factors like economic inequality and state oppression, are often ignited by seemingly insignificant sparks. This phenomenon is illustrated by recent events in Bangladesh and Nepal.

In Bangladesh, the swift end of Hasina Wajed's 15-year reign was reportedly triggered by a job reservation issue affecting no more than 1,000 positions. Wajed, isolated by absolute power, underestimated the situation, which escalated into an uprising against authoritarianism. Despite a Supreme Court reduction in the reservation quota, it was too late; the protests had already become a full-blown revolt, leading to loss of life during a government crackdown.

Similarly, in Nepal, widespread anger over corruption, unemployment, and economic inequality simmered. However, the immediate spark for 'Gen Z' protests was a government ban on 26 social media platforms in September 2025. Protesters believed the ban aimed to suppress a social media trend exposing the extravagant lifestyles of the ruling class's children. This allowed the poor and unemployed to witness the stark contrast between their lives and the elite's wealth, fueling resentment.

In both cases, governments addressed the spark too late. Nepal's government lifted the ban days later, but not before dozens of protesters were killed and government buildings were set ablaze, forcing the prime minister to resign. The article suggests that by the time states address the trigger, the fire has already spread, highlighting the volatile nature of public discontent when fueled by visible inequality.