Protest Movements and Their Ability to Create Lasting Change: Lessons from History and the Present
Protest movements have the power to create lasting change, even if they do not continue for a long time. They often generate a backlash, especially when they are extreme. Iconic protest movements of recent generations include those of the 1960s in North America and Western Europe. The anti-Vietnam War movement reached its peak in 1971 and 1972, leading to an unexpected electoral victory for President Richard Nixon. Similarly, a student revolt spread to Europe in 1968, with the main battleground in Paris. President de Gaulle’s decisive actions led to a significant electoral victory for his party.
Today, the protest movement against Israel is gaining momentum on both sides of the Atlantic. Protests and calls for revolution are increasing, making many wonder if this movement will challenge the existing system. The similarities to past movements, such as the anti-apartheid protest in South Africa in the 1980s, are evident. The BDS movement, born during the second intifada, echoes the sanctions movement against South Africa.
The current protests against Israel are rooted in a new generation’s perspective that sees parallels between Israel and apartheid-era South Africa. Despite some elements of anti-Semitism within the movement, attributing this label to the entire protest hinders understanding of its motives and consequences. The deepening isolation of Israel in American and Western public opinion is evident, with some protests turning violent and police intervening in several universities.
The spread of these protests has caused concern among Jewish communities, with reports of harassment and threats. Jewish organizations struggle to mobilize support, marking a historical retreat for American Jews. Counter-demonstrations focusing on releasing abducted individuals lack the same fervor. It remains unclear how this retreat will be resolved as Israel faces significant challenges on the international stage.
In conclusion, protest movements have a lasting impact even if they do not endure for a long time
