ISAS Special Reports

The Special Report examines the changing nature of the state in South Asia, where traditional power structures are facing increasing pressure from a politically active and digitally connected generation of young citizens.

Based on discussions at the 2026 International Conference on South Asia, organised by ISAS at NUS, the report explores the wave of youth-led protests, mass uprisings and extra-electoral regime changes that have reshaped the region since 2022.

The report focuses on three key dimensions: the structural drivers of dissent, including economic pressures, debt and youth disillusionment; the mechanics of mobilisation, particularly the rise of decentralised and leaderless digital networks; and the future of governance, including the challenge of turning protest movements and revolutionary momentum into lasting policy and constitutional reforms.