Activism on Academic Campuses: A Critical Reflection

In contemporary discourse, the role of young people in shaping social and political landscapes has become increasingly pivotal. Across the Global North countries, a significant transformation is underway as liberal democracies find themselves tested by a surge in support for right-wing political factions (Elerian et al., 2025). These groups often advance nationalist and separatist ideologies, often promoting legislative measures that are anti-immigrant and restrictive towards minority rights. This shift not only challenges long-standing peaceful diplomatic relations built since the early post-World War II period but also questions the international cooperative spirit that flourished following the fall of the Berlin Wall. The multifaceted pressures exerted on both established and emerging democracies are rooted in a confluence of factors, including the economic disruptions attributable to globalization.