The Post-Pandemic Pushback: Analyzing Mass Uprising Movements in Contemporary South Asia

Mass uprisings against authoritarian regimes have emerged in various countries worldwide. South Asia, despite being known for its tradition of parliamentary democracy—largely inherited from British colonial rule—has experienced significant political instability in recent years. Countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, the Maldives, and Sri Lanka initially adopted robust democratic systems, but over time, several of these states witnessed democratic backsliding and the rise of authoritarian tendencies. Some leaders, though democratically elected, gradually eroded democratic institutions and practices, prompting widespread dissent. In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, mass protests erupted in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan, driven by both political and economic grievances. These movements, in some cases, contributed to regime change or significantly challenged incumbent authorities. This paper examines the nature and dynamics of these post-pandemic uprisings in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. Using secondary data, it analyses how social discontent, economic crises, and political disillusionment converged to fuel these movements. The protests saw active participation from university students, civil society groups, and opposition parties, with social media playing a critical role in mobilisation and coordination. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of contemporary political resistance in South Asia.