Political unrest is the agitation, protests or violent conflict that occurs when people lose faith in government institutions and their ability to improve their quality of life. This type of instability is triggered by economic, social, or political factors, and often results in civil disobedience, sometimes in the form of protests or riots. It is often a result of economic inequality or corruption, and it can also be a consequence of political oppression or a desire to see reforms.
Political violence and civil unrest are both significant challenges to human rights and to a functioning democratic system. In addition to posing risks to individual security, they can lead to economic costs as people stay away from businesses and consumers stop spending. According to a paper by IMF staff, it can take up to 18 months for gross domestic product to return to pre-pandemic levels following the most serious unrest events.
Inequality is a major driver of political unrest, as it makes people feel alienated from the power structures that determine their wealth and opportunities. It can also be exploited by populist leaders, who are able to mobilize voters by appealing to feelings of injustice and anger. Climate change is another factor that contributes to political unrest, as it leads to crop failures that can trigger food insecurity and lead to rural-to-urban migration and violent clashes. We believe that community solidarity can be a powerful tool to help us navigate challenging times and build resilience. This is why CityHope Disaster Relief focuses on supporting communities during periods of political unrest through dialogue and the sharing of accurate information.