Report

Aug 14, 2025

HRF Youthquake Asia Report

In recent years, youth1 across East and Southeast Asia, and around the world, have spearheaded the demand for democracy, justice, and freedom. They have breathed new life into the struggle for democracy and employed innovative strategies that are unique to their generation.

This report examines youth-led movements across East and Southeast Asia, including those within diaspora communities. The study covers the period between the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in December 2019 to 2023, when a significant uptick in youth-led movements was documented throughout the region. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic and crackdowns by authoritarian regimes, these movements have continued to evolve and proliferate.

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