Where the Street Won and Where It Lost: Protests, Coups, and Harsh Repression in 2025

Сергей Гармаш World
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In 2025, the world was engulfed by a wave of mass protests and even coups that affected various regions. Protesters raised demands ranging from anti-corruption efforts and improvements in living standards to the overthrow of long-standing regimes. Some movements succeeded in gaining concessions from the authorities or even their resignation, while others faced brutal repression. Some protests temporarily subsided, but it is possible that they will flare up again. Kaktus.media analyzed the key events of 2025 related to protests and coups.

Nepal: Generation Z Revolution and Prime Minister's Resignation

In Nepal, mass protests by youth, known as the Generation Z revolution, began in early September 2025. The cause was the government's attempt to block popular social networks under the pretext of unauthorized registration. This sparked anger among the youth, who criticized the lavish lifestyle of the ruling elite. On September 9, protesters set fire to the parliament building in Kathmandu, leading to clashes with the police. Authorities responded with tear gas and rubber bullets, resulting in at least 19 deaths in the first days. The total number of casualties exceeded 76, with more than 2,000 injured.

By the end of November, the military announced the appointment of Major General Orta N'Tama as the president of the transitional period, while the former leader Embalo was released and left the country. The new authorities promised to hold elections and restore constitutional order; however, skepticism prevails in the region due to the instability in Guinea-Bissau. The 2025 coup can be considered "successful" in the sense that the previous regime was overthrown and the army controls the situation.

Turkey: Protests Against Repression

In the spring of 2025, Turkey witnessed the largest protests in the last decade, triggered by the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu. Thousands of people took to the streets of Istanbul and Ankara, expressing support for İmamoğlu and condemning political repression. According to observers, these were the largest protests since 2013. In response, the authorities began mass arrests, detaining around 500 opposition figures, including mayors.

The regime reacted harshly: military units were deployed in cities to disperse the rallies. Amnesty International reported 14 deaths among protesters, including minors. Human rights defenders documented numerous cases of mistreatment of detainees, and courts sentenced activists to long prison terms. Despite partial concessions, the Gnassingbé regime did not resign, and the activity of protesters was suppressed by the end of summer.

Kenya: Protests Against Economic Hardships

In Kenya, youth protests against rising prices and unemployment flared up again in 2025. A notable event was the police killing of a blogger, which sparked mass demonstrations under the slogan "Ruto must go." Protesters voiced their opposition to high inflation and police brutality. The government responded by labeling the rallies as an attempted coup.

Police actions were brutal: many people died in clashes, and hundreds were detained. President Ruto, holding a majority in parliament, refused to make concessions, leading to a lull in protests by the end of the year.

Morocco: Protests for Reforms and Brutal Repression

In the fall of 2025, a powerful youth movement emerged in Morocco, sparked by tragic incidents in healthcare. Protesters demanded improvements in medical care and education. On September 27, mass actions took place in major cities; however, the authorities responded with repression, including opening fire on the crowd and mass arrests.

By the end of October, the protests were suppressed, although the government announced its intention to implement social reforms. However, many doubt the reality of these promises, given the brutality of the response.

Serbia: Student Protests and Elections

In Serbia, anti-corruption protests that began in late 2024 continued. Following a tragedy in Novi Sad, students began demanding accountability from the authorities. By the fall of 2025, the protests had become mass movements and led to President Vučić's promise to hold early elections in 2026.

While this was seen as a victory for the protesters, many believe that Vučić is merely trying to placate discontent while maintaining his position. Protests became less frequent, but activists shifted to legal methods of struggle.

Philippines: Corruption Scandal and Protests

In the Philippines, mass rallies against corruption began in September 2025, triggered by a budget misappropriation scandal. Protesters demanded the resignation of President Marcos Jr., leading to clashes with the police and the detention of activists.

Although the authorities agreed to partial measures, public discontent did not subside. Citizens are demanding real action against corruption and accountability for officials.

Indonesia: Protests Against Rising Prices

The summer protests of 2025 in Indonesia were the largest since 1998, driven by a sharp rise in prices and the authorities' indifference to poverty. The protests quickly escalated into violence, and the government attempted to calm the public with partial concessions.

Despite this, discontent remains high, and analysts warn of potential new protests if the authorities do not implement necessary reforms.
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