Let’s dive into the fascinating phenomenon of Gen Z protests. These youth-led movements are making headlines worldwide, with recent significant demonstrations erupting in Nepal, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Madagascar. What unites these diverse protests against government corruption and inequality is a surprising, yet globally recognized, symbol: a pirate flag featuring a grinning skull wearing a straw hat.
This iconic flag originates from “One Piece,” a wildly popular Japanese manga and anime series. The story follows a tenacious pirate crew battling a corrupt and oppressive world government, a narrative that deeply resonates with young activists. Having been translated into numerous languages and boasting over 500 million print copies sold, “One Piece” has cultivated a massive international following, recently boosted by a live-action Netflix adaptation.
The “One Piece” flag first appeared in protests in 2023 during pro-Palestinian marches in Indonesia and Britain. Since then, it has swiftly become a universal emblem for youth-led demonstrations. It was seen hanging defiantly on the gates of Nepal’s government complex before it was ultimately burned down in protests that led to the government’s collapse. It’s been painted on walls in Jakarta and hoisted by crowds in Manila. This week, it popped up in Madagascar, where protests forced yet another government dissolution.
“We know that Gen Z is protesting all around the world, and we wanted to use symbols that made sense to our generation,” explained Rakshya Bam, 26, one of the Nepali Gen Z protest organizers. “The pirate flag, Jolly Roger, it’s like a common language now.” The flag is more than just an emblem; it’s an allegory. The protagonist, Luffy, is seen by many as a freedom fighter challenging a tyrannical system. His signature straw hat, a gift from his childhood hero, who believed Luffy and his generation would eventually prevail.
The plot makes the symbol particularly resonant, another Nepali protester, Irfan Khan, told Hannah. “The pirate, it’s like a way to say we are not going to put up with injustice and corruption anymore,” he said.
This isn’t the first time pop culture has served as a unifying force for dissent. In the 2010s, Thai protesters opposing a military coup adopted the three-fingered salute from the dystopian movie “The Hunger Games,” a symbol that has persisted in countries like Myanmar. Raqib Naik, director of the Center for the Study of Organized Hate, notes this emerging trend: “I think we are entering a new era of organizing that draws heavily from digital, pop and gaming culture, creating a common vocabulary.”
Despite being thousands of kilometers apart, these protesters are connected by a shared generational culture, demonstrating how popular narratives can merge with anti-establishment politics to create a powerful force capable of influencing real-world change and even toppling governments.
Beyond these youth movements, the global landscape is shifting. In Moldova, a strategically vital former Soviet republic with a population of 2.4 million, a pro-European Union party secured a decisive victory in recent parliamentary elections. This outcome, a “values race — a referendum on Europe versus Russia,” as one colleague described it, felt profoundly significant. It reflects a broader sentiment across Europe, where despite the rise of nationalist right-wing parties, nearly three-quarters of EU citizens believe their country benefits from membership. Economic advantages and the need for security amidst Russia’s war in Ukraine and an unpredictable U.S. partner are key drivers. While countries like Georgia have shown a drift towards Russia, Moldova’s vote of confidence in the EU is a notable example of a widespread rally around the European ideal.
In other global news:
- Former President Trump proposed a Gaza ceasefire plan, giving Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu favorable terms despite Israel’s growing international isolation.
- The U.S. deported about 100 Iranians following a new agreement between the two governments.
- A car bomb exploded in Pakistan’s Balochistan province, killing at least 10 people outside a paramilitary headquarters.
- The U.S. government is on the brink of a shutdown as lawmakers failed to reach a budget deal.
- China, while urging peace between Cambodia and Thailand in their brief conflict, was simultaneously supplying weapons to Cambodia.
- South Africa’s ambassador to France was found dead outside a Paris hotel, with police investigating a possible suicide.
- A new A.I. start-up is attracting top researchers from Meta and Google with promises of advancing scientific discovery.
American public support for Israel has also seen a dramatic decline over the past two years since the war in Gaza began. A recent poll indicates that most Americans now oppose further economic and military aid to Israel, and for the first time since 1998, more U.S. voters sympathize with Palestinians than with Israel. A striking four out of ten American voters believe Israel is intentionally causing civilian casualties in Gaza, a figure that has nearly doubled in two years. This shift is particularly pronounced among voters under 30, with almost seven out of ten opposing additional aid to Israel, hinting at a potentially different future for U.S.-Israel relations. — Lisa Lerer, a Times national political correspondent.
On a lighter note, New York City’s Trinity Church, famous for being Alexander Hamilton’s resting place, has finally unveiled its new pipe organ. Severely damaged during the 9/11 attacks, the replacement organ took a decade to create and cost nearly $17 million, now boasting 8,041 pipes.
Meanwhile, in Colombia, a slang term, “Brayan,” is stirring debate. The name is often used to stereotype reckless, low-income delinquents. Colombian President Gustavo Petro recently drew criticism for using the term, leading to calls from an influencer named Brayan Mantilla for a “National Brayan Day” to counter the unfair stigma. — Genevieve Glatsky, reporting from Bogotá
And for those who enjoy puzzles and cooking:
- Watch: “All of You” is a weepy romance that succeeds thanks to its stars.
- Glow up: The Times asked experts about a planet-friendly skin care routine.
- Read: Malala Yousafzai’s memoir is among 27 new books coming this month.
- Test yourself: Take the latest Flashback history quiz.
Maraq misir is a hearty red lentil soup found in Somali cuisine. Also known as shurbo cadas, the soup gets its body from tomatoes, onions and carrots, and its deep flavor from a layered blend of spices and fresh cilantro leaves.
Where is this gathering of golden retrievers?
- France
- Scotland
- Ireland
- England
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