The most impactful social movements of the past decade have been defined by significant societal changes and collective action. Here are some of the standout movements:
Beginning in 2013 and intensifying after 2020, BLM has become a global call for racial justice and policing reform. This movement has raised awareness about racial inequality and has sparked widespread discussions and policy considerations on police practices and systemic racism.
This campaign, which went viral in 2017, spotlighted sexual harassment and assault across industries. It empowered people to speak out, leading to a profound cultural shift regarding workplace conduct and accountability.
Led by Greta Thunberg, this youth climate movement gained worldwide momentum as young people protested for action on climate change. Millions have rallied to demand stricter environmental protections and significant governmental action on climate issues.
In 2017, millions globally participated in marches advocating for women’s rights, racial equality, and other social issues. It became one of the largest single-day protests in U.S. history and inspired continued advocacy for gender equality.
Over the past decade, advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights has seen significant progress, including the legalization of same-sex marriage in several countries. Movements like Pride and campaigns against discriminatory policies have fostered greater acceptance and visibility.
Beginning in 2019, Hong Kong saw massive demonstrations against the influence of mainland China, marking one of the most notable pro-democracy movements globally and drawing attention to issues of civil liberties and autonomy.
In response to agricultural reforms, millions of Indian farmers protested from 2020 to 2021. The demonstrations highlighted rural economic issues and led to the Indian government repealing controversial laws.
In 2020, Nigerians led protests against police brutality, specifically targeting the notorious SARS police unit. This movement mobilized young Nigerians and resulted in some police reforms and a heightened focus on government accountability.
Following the Parkland school shooting in 2018, students organized to demand stronger gun control legislation. This movement brought gun reform issues to the forefront of U.S. politics.
Protests against the Dakota Access Pipeline in 2016, along with ongoing Indigenous rights movements, have highlighted the importance of land rights and environmental protections for Indigenous communities globally.
Originating in France in 2018, this movement protested economic inequalities and government tax policies. It highlighted the struggles of working-class citizens, gaining international attention and sparking similar protests in other countries.
Sparked in 2019 by a controversial extradition bill, this movement demanded democracy and civil rights protections. It led to the bill’s withdrawal and brought global attention to human rights issues in Hong Kong.
Movements like Ni Una Menos in Argentina have called for an end to gender-based violence, influencing policies against femicide and encouraging other nations to adopt stricter laws on violence against women.
Founded in the UK in 2018, XR used civil disobedience to demand action on climate change. It has inspired climate action globally and raised awareness about ecological and environmental collapse.
Following a military coup in 2021, Myanmar saw widespread protests as citizens demanded a return to democratic rule. These demonstrations brought attention to military authoritarianism and human rights abuses in the region.
Beyond the U.S., the Black Lives Matter movement inspired protests worldwide, where countries like the UK, Brazil, and South Africa held solidarity marches to address local racial injustices and demand equality.
In response to the tightening of abortion laws in 2020, millions of Poles protested for reproductive rights. This movement became one of the largest in Poland’s recent history and raised awareness for women’s autonomy.
