Political unrest is the term used to describe a wide range of social and political events that lead to violence and can destabilize communities. There is no single definition of political unrest, but a broad one includes protests, demonstrations, and other forms of collective action. It also refers to violence that may occur during these events and can result in death, injury, or property damage (Kalyvas 2000).
The root causes of political unrest vary widely. They can include economic inequality, government repression, and corruption. In addition, the emergence of radical political parties, the normalization of polarization and violence, and social media misinformation can fuel political unrest.
In the United States, the rise of white supremacist and anti-abortion groups has contributed to a rise in political violence against people who do not share their views. This is a societal problem that requires all leaders—from politicians to religious and community leaders—to publicly denounce violence against those with different viewpoints.
Keeping abreast of what’s happening in your community can help prevent political unrest. You can do this by following reliable news sources that report on local politics and avoiding sensational reporting that can fuel anxiety. It’s also important to stay aware of the underlying tensions in your community and to take proactive measures by planning ahead for potential disruptions. For example, if you live in an area that is prone to political unrest, try to make arrangements for alternative transportation during periods of increased public demonstrations.