In an earlier article, we celebrated the resilience of Generation Z in Bangladesh. They have shown remarkable ability to navigate the sea of information, misinformation, and disinformation that inundates social and mainstream media. Their spirited efforts in dismantling symbols of the oppressive Hasina regime, even six months after its overthrow, are a testament to their resilience. However, recent developments in their political participation have raised concerns. Everyone must understand and sincerely try to uphold the spirit of the hard-earned July Revolution. Let’s explore how we can achieve this goal.
Stay Informed and Critical
Information lays down the foundation of our knowledge. However, how the wealth of information fortifies our foundation is a huge challenge. This is a challenge not only for Generation Z but also for people of all ages. How does one distinguish between true and false information? I was aware of the disinformation campaign of the Hasina-led fascist government, but Bangladesh’s Generation Z has impressed me. They successfully led the revolution only because they knew the government was spreading false information. I witness a great deal of similarity between US campus protest marches for Palestine and the activities of Generation Z in Bangladesh.
It is well-documented that the Hasina regime was installed in Bangladesh in 2009 with India’s direct intervention, which India saw as a strategic move to exert influence in the region. Since then, the regime has established control over all aspects of society with India’s blessings. It is also widely known that disinformation practices are widespread in India, and I admire the fact that the Generation Z in Bangladesh could successfully identify India’s conspiratorial activities during their movement to oust the Hasina regime. However, they must know that those accustomed to spreading lies do not usually stop because of their failures. Therefore, they must maintain their resilience to move forward with extreme caution and a critical approach to staying informed.
Leverage Technology Wisely
The primary mechanism for staying well informed about current events is to use technology to identify biases in both media and academia. When one shares information in social media – a widespread practice – one must be very careful because one shares information because one approves it. A Swedish-based news outlet called Netra News, which specializes in reporting about Bangladesh, has published a good article explaining how to deal with fake news. All young men and women in Bangladesh should learn from such analyses. This will help them to be aware of biases and understand diverse perspectives. On top of everything, they should utilize encrypted communication tools to secure their coordination, plan to organize, educate, and mobilize themselves.
Build Strong Networks among Like-minded People
For a revolution to succeed, those who have participated in carrying the revolution must develop trust among themselves, and trust demands a strong connection, sincerity, and transparency. While the younger generation should benefit from the experience of older generations, the older generations must keep in mind that fresh ideas do not always originate with expertise. Advanced technical knowledge sometimes inspires individuals to generate landmark ideas. Only open-minded and transparent discussion will lead to a successful strategy.
Focus on Long-Term Goals and Peaceful Activism
While immediate victories are important, work on sustainable strategies to ensure lasting change. One should advocate systematic reforms in governance with stern accountability in a transparent manner. This will create trust among all stakeholders. Activists should engage only in peaceful actions. Such acts are always easier to say than to practice. Therefore, one must develop patience in continuing one’s activism. One must learn to uphold moral high ground to gain others’ support. Activists must handle instances of injustice responsibly because such acts may lead to panic and violence.
Protect Mental Health
Activism can be emotionally draining, which sometimes may result in depression and, at other times, in anger, leading to violence. Therefore, to avoid burnout, activists must create safe spaces for open dialogue and support those who may feel vulnerable.
Hold Leaders Accountable
Most importantly, we must hold leaders accountable. Every individual is subject to human weaknesses such as arrogance, greed, self-centeredness, jealousy, and many others. Every single member of the community should closely monitor all leaders and demand complete transparency in their affairs.
Be Vigilant against Counter-Movement
Historically, all revolutions have encountered challenges of counter-revolutions. Counter-revolutionary movements always attempt to undermine the basic spirit of the revolution. Usually, invisible forces, such as vested interests, foreign powers, or corrupt elements within the society, exploit personal weaknesses, particularly those of those in leadership positions, to derail the revolution and achieve its primary objective. One consistent analysis and awareness of all stakeholders will save the revolution. The Qur’an introduces this consciousness with the concept of taqwah – a state of mind that the Qur’an demands every believer to cultivate in themselves. By cultivating a knowledge culture and staying united, informed, and resilient, Generation Z can continue to drive meaningful change and build a more just and equitable society.
How to Cultivate the Knowledge Culture
To achieve the objectives described above, Generation Z has to identify a mechanism. What would that mechanism be? The Qur’an, primarily a book of guidance, insists on cultivating one’s intellect and pondering upon finding a solution to any given challenge. This is precisely what the Socratic Method prescribed in seeking the truth. This method encourages truth seekers to ask what, when, who, whom, why, etc. Socrates wanted to guide Athenian youth, but the establishment of the city of Athens felt threatened by his teachings. We are all aware of the consequences. Generation Z is capable of internalizing both methods. Applying both methods will easily reconcile the perceived conflict between reason and revelation, ensuring their success in life and in the hereafter.