Gen Z and the Future of South Asian Democracy
Generation Z (1995-2012) is emerging as a political disruptor in South Asia, challenging traditional governance through digital literacy. This paper examines these “youthquakes” that are reshaping democracy in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh and offers key insights into the transition from digital talk to offline civic action. Using a qualitative mixed-methods design, it draws on data from regional surveys, focus groups, and semi-structured interviews to explore the youth’s connection to the theory of generational cohorts. The paper reveals that South Asian Gen Zers favour climate action, economic transparency, and social justice over legacy party politics, and they convert digital mobilisation into persistent physical protest. However, Gen Z, faced with a range of issues, including state censorship and scarce resources, continues to speak truth to regional power. Their mobilisation points the way to a more responsible and digitally connected political ecology, one that demands a conjoining of grassroots activism with formal policy reform. As this rising generation takes power, they will insist on political honesty and redefine South Asian citizenship.
Keywords: Civic engagement, digital mobilisation, Generation Z, south asian politics, youthquake
