Political unrest is a broad term that describes activities like protests, strikes, and violence. It is a result of economic and social injustice, and it can be driven by many factors such as corruption, inequality, and authoritarianism.
The most common cause of political unrest is economic inequality. When a small minority of people accumulate massive amounts of wealth, it can erode the middle class and create resentment amongst the majority. This can lead to unrest as the poor are left behind, and it is often exploited by demagogues or nationalists seeking power and influence.
Another cause of political unrest is globalisation, which can displace populations and exacerbate resource shortages. This can lead to civil disturbances as the displaced people seek redress from the government. Climate change is also a major driver of unrest as environmental degradation and resource scarcity exacerbate all the other causes of unrest. It is the fastest-growing driver of unrest and is likely to become even more prevalent.
Lastly, political repression can also cause unrest as it undermines faith in the government institutions. This can result in a loss of democracy and the ability to hold the government accountable for its actions. This can lead to large-scale protests and, in extreme cases, violent confrontations. In Dragun’s film ‘El hombre que se convirtió en perro’, the protagonist is transformed into a dog as a metaphor for how societal pressures can strip people of their individuality and humanity.
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