Archive · 12 Oct 2026
Activism Can Challenge Stagnation and Drive Social Change
Activism means speaking up and taking action when something seems unfair or harmful.
The writer says it has helped people challenge discrimination and push for change.
Some campaigns, such as those about climate change and nuclear weapons, take many years.
People who speak up may face criticism or other difficulties.
The writer recalls joining a demonstration after Nirbhaya was attacked in 2012.
The article says people can act together in many ways, including marches, songs, and art.
It encourages readers to stand up for a fairer society.
The writer argues that activism can disrupt harmful social patterns and help bring change.
The article cites climate activism and nuclear-disarmament campaigning as efforts that took years to influence action.
It says activists may face public criticism, lost opportunities, and resistance from groups that benefit from the status quo.
The writer describes joining public demonstrations after the 2012 gang rape of Nirbhaya, saying collective activism helped bring women’s safety laws.
The article encourages people to channel anger into peaceful action, including marches, art, songs, and speeches.
- Who
- Activists and members of the public, including the writer.
- What
- An opinion article urging people to use activism to challenge harmful conditions and pursue social change.
- When
- The article discusses examples spanning several decades, including the 2012 Nirbhaya case.
- Where
- The examples include India and international campaigns; the writer recalls going to Jantar Mantar in Delhi.
- Why
- The writer says activism can draw attention to injustice and help bring reform before harmful conditions worsen.
Reasons to support activism
Sources of resistance
Changing the status quo
Reasons to support activism
The writer argues activism can challenge injustice and harmful stagnation and help bring reform.
Sources of resistance
The article says people may resist change because they prefer familiar routines, lack awareness, or are occupied with earning a living.
Economic and political interests
Reasons to support activism
Activists can press for changes such as moving from fossil fuels to sustainable energy.
Sources of resistance
The writer says people who profit from the status quo, including coal mine owners, and politicians concerned about influential voters may oppose policy change.
Costs of activism
Reasons to support activism
The writer presents activism as a way to act on conscience and pursue social justice, even when it brings no personal reward.
Sources of resistance
Activists may face hostility, damaging labels, lost jobs, and other missed opportunities, the article says.
- IPPNW founded
- 1980
- IPPNW Nobel Peace Prize
- 1985
- ICAN campaign started
- 2007
- UN nuclear weapons prohibition declaration
- 2017
- Nirbhaya case referenced
- 2012
- Writer
- A Delhi-based medical practitioner