Activism News, TL;DR Summaries

Activism
EFF at DEF CON 34: Community, Privacy, and Advocacy
EFF is participating in BSides Las Vegas, Black Hat Briefings, and DEF CON 34 to advocate for digital rights and privacy. The organization promotes tools such as Privacy Badger, Certbot, and the Surveillance Self-Defense guide to protect vulnerable populations. Membership support enables EFF's legal advocacy and the development of accessible security resources. DEF CON 34 Engagement EFF has released a limited-edition "Many Hands Make Light Work" t-shirt designed by Hannah Diaz, featuring an integrated puzzle. The puzzle was created by Aaron Steimle (Elegin) and Kevin Hulin (CryptoK). Supporters can also obtain other branded gear, including items themed around Privacy Badger and ALPR (Automated License Plate Recognition) awareness. Mission and Advocacy EFF positions itself against the trend of tech companies aligning with government entities to monitor individuals. The organization emphasizes that technology should serve democratic processes, education, and healthcare rather than concentrating power and wealth. Supporters are encouraged to join the team to protect free expression and privacy in an increasingly digitized society.
EFF Deeplinks · 6 hours ago
Activism
Resistance Against Palantir: An Interview with 'Purge Palantir' Activists
Palantir claims to optimize operations by finding patterns in massive datasets, but activists characterize its technology as a tool for surveillance, repression, and human rights abuses. Palantir is facing increasing resistance in Europe, with the Swiss military, French intelligence, and the Mayor of London blocking or rejecting deals. The "Purge Palantir" campaign is working to expose the company's influence, pressure politicians to cut ties, and educate the public on the risks of technofascism. Critical Issues with Palantir Data Surveillance: Palantir aggregates data across government silos, enabling U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to track individuals and conduct deportations. Facial Recognition: The company’s tools are used not only for immigration enforcement but also to identify and surveil protesters. War and Conflict: Palantir has played a significant role in providing targeting instructions for military operations in Gaza, with CEO Alex Karp openly discussing the company's contribution to casualties. Campaign Strategy and Achievements "Palantir Payroll": A tracker documenting which members of the U.S. Congress receive funding from Palantir, successfully pressuring several representatives to refuse future donations. Broad Coalition Building: Working with labor unions and local community groups to present a united front against the company's influence across the political spectrum. Public Education: Informing the public about the dangers of unchecked AI-driven warfare, mass surveillance, and the influence of Peter Thiel on anti-democratic movements. Future Implications While half of Palantir’s revenue comes from the U.S. federal government, the other half depends on commercial contracts and international government partnerships. Activists argue that European citizens and organizers hold significant leverage in slowing the company's expansion by preventing government and public health agencies from integrating Palantir’s software.
netzpolitik.org · 1 day ago
Activism
Protesting Palantir: A Global Movement Against Surveillance Tech and Authoritarianism
Palantir is facing increasing global backlash for providing data analytics software to governments and military agencies, facilitating controversial activities such as immigration enforcement (ICE), target identification in military operations, and domestic surveillance. The 'Purge Palantir' campaign is an organized civil society effort aimed at exposing these unethical business practices and pressuring government institutions and private firms to cut ties with the company. Resistance is growing across the political spectrum, as both left-wing activists and right-wing populists increasingly view Palantir's surveillance infrastructure as a threat to democratic norms. Key Controversies Data Consolidation: Palantir acts as a 'central operating system' for governments, aggregating disparate data sets to facilitate the tracking and targeting of individuals, notably aiding ICE in its enforcement operations. Surveillance and Tracking: The software goes beyond pattern recognition, utilizing facial recognition systems to identify and target protesters and dissidents. Military and Humanitarian Impact: Palantir has been implicated in military operations, including providing targeting assistance for Israeli defense forces in Gaza, which critics argue has contributed to widespread civilian harm. Strategies of Resistance Political Pressure: Through the 'Palantir Payroll' initiative, activists are tracking US congresspeople receiving money from the firm, successfully pressuring several to renounce future funding due to the company's controversial profile. Public Education: A central goal of the campaign is to raise awareness about the specific harms caused by Palantir, ensuring that businesses and public officials understand the moral implications of using their software. Global Solidarity: The campaign is benefiting from international cooperation, with movements in Europe—such as protests against Palantir's involvement in the UK National Health Service and opposition by German civil groups—proving more effective than in the US under the current administration. Future Outlook While half of Palantir's revenue comes from the US federal government, the other half stems from the private sector and international governments. Activists believe that halting Palantir's expansion into European public institutions is a critical strategy to limit the company's global influence and power.
netzpolitik.org · 1 day ago
Activism
Preparatory Meeting Held in Ishwardi, Bangladesh for the 4th World March for Peace and Nonviolence
A preparatory meeting was held in Ishwardi, Bangladesh, to organize the '4th World March for Peace and Nonviolence 2026, In My City'. Local youth and social organizations gathered to plan city-based initiatives scheduled for September 21 to October 4, 2026. Participants emphasized the need for grassroots activism to counter rising global geopolitical tensions and the arms race. Meeting Background and Objectives Organized by the Humanist Movement, Ishwardi Center, the meeting took place on July 30 at the Bangladesh Sugarcrop Research Institute (BSRI). The goal was to develop concrete action plans for the global campaign, which spans from the International Day of Peace to the period following the International Day of Nonviolence. Speakers highlighted that achieving long-term peace requires active participation from citizens and the younger generation rather than relying solely on political leadership. Key Participants and Planned Actions Chaired by Masum Parvez Kollol, the meeting featured contributions from Decler Mendez Hague (South Asia promotion lead) and representatives from Pressenza. Diverse local institutions participated, including Railway Nazimuddin High School, Ishwardi Govt. College, and organizations such as 'Manab' and 'Care for Humanity'. The group agreed to conduct a series of activities during the campaign period, including peace marches, awareness campaigns, art competitions, and youth-led forums.
Pressenza · 3 days ago
Activism
Flamingo Revolution: Albanian Protests Intensify Amid Police Crackdown
Ongoing daily protests in Tirana, dubbed the "Flamingo Revolution," have reached their 54th day, centering on government transparency, land policy, and public spending. On July 23, police used pepper spray and water cannons against demonstrators outside Parliament, resulting in 32 detentions. Activists and journalists report significant intimidation, including the detention of non-violent individuals, degrading treatment at police stations, and the removal of injured protesters from medical facilities. Core Issues Agricultural Land Reform: A contested draft law proposes allowing foreign individuals and companies to purchase agricultural land, raising concerns in a country where many property titles remain disputed. Public Spending: Protesters have mobilized against the allocation of 4 million euros in public funds for a concert by Ye (Kanye West), viewing it as an inappropriate use of taxpayer money. Institutional Control: Demonstrations frequently target the Prime Minister's office and Parliament, calling for government accountability and systemic reform. Police Conduct During the July 23 escalation, officers were observed without mandatory identification badges. Reports from the Albanian Helsinki Committee and local activists highlight the detention of citizens merely for filming or being present at the scene. Journalists, including Vjolanda Peca, were detained while documenting the protests, drawing condemnation from the Association of Albanian Journalists. Future Outlook Despite the crackdown, the movement continues, with organizers planning a major mobilization for the diaspora from August 14 to 16. Protesters maintain a strategy of peaceful occupation of public spaces to resist what they describe as systemic injustice and intimidation.
Pressenza · 3 days ago
Activism
When India’s youth tested the limits of centralised governance
India’s Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned on July 25, 2026, following youth-led protests against NEET examination paper leaks and mismanagement. The movement, driven largely by Gen Z, successfully forced a cabinet departure without traditional parliamentary or judicial intervention. Digital dissent, including viral social media content and hunger strikes, bypassed government narratives and compelled executive accountability. The Movement and Its Drivers The protests were triggered by recurring exam paper leaks, student suicides, and institutional rot in education systems. The term “Cockroach Janata Party” became a symbolic moniker for protesters following a controversial remark by Chief Justice Surya Kant comparing them to insects. The movement utilized a distinct Gen Z language of dissent characterized by speed, satire, and self-parody. Protesters bypassed traditional hierarchy by positioning young professionals like Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka to negotiate directly with government veterans. Implications for Indian Democracy The resignation reaffirms that government legitimacy depends on responding to citizen concerns beyond electoral cycles. Activists like Yogendra Yadav argue that the future of Indian democracy is increasingly being settled in the streets rather than in Parliament. The government framed the resignation as a protective measure against "anti-national forces," revealing tensions between centralized control and public demand for transparency. Long-term reform, beyond the minister's resignation, is viewed as necessary to restore trust in examination integrity and meritocratic institutions.
360info · 6 days ago
Activism
Community-Centered Connectivity: Driving Socio-Environmental Justice
LocNet launched a global initiative in 2025 to collect narratives on how community networks and Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) address socio-environmental crises. The project received 125 submissions, selecting nine works from the Global South that demonstrate how connectivity supports environmental justice, monitoring, and advocacy. The selected narratives will be published in three batches from July to September 2026. Featured July Narratives Nigeria: Sani Saidu documents the pollution of Kano's Jakara river; the local Sentinel project uses water quality sensors to warn residents and gather evidence against environmental violations. South Africa: Mondli Kunene presents an illustrated story about a rural community using a solar-powered mesh network and air quality sensors to monitor industrial emissions and alert locals to pollution spikes via group chat. Indonesia: Sofia Halim offers a poem exploring the role of community communication technology in navigating the psychosocial challenges and logistical needs during environmental disasters like flash floods. Project Goals Highlight the intersection of community connectivity and environmental protection. Amplify voices from the Global South regarding environmental contamination, digital inclusion, and e-waste management. Promote local solutions that allow communities to defend their territories against unsustainable industrial practices.
APC · 1 week ago
Activism
Massive Anti-Tourism Protest in Mallorca Ends in Police Violence and 12 Injuries
A massive protest against mass tourism in Palma de Mallorca on July 26 ended in police violence, leaving 12 people injured. Estimates of turnout ranged from 25,000 (government) to 70,000 (organizers), marking a historic mobilization for the island. Activists and unions have condemned the police actions as disproportionate and are demanding resignations from government officials. Incident Details The protest, organized by 'Menys Turisme, Més Vida', was intended to conclude at Ses Voltes, but access was blocked by an unusually large police deployment. Organizers reported that police launched unjustified charges after the protest had effectively ended and prevented medical teams from reaching the injured. Police claimed their intention was never to break up the demonstration, while the police union defended the operation. Political Fallout Protesters held an emergency demonstration at the Government Delegation to demand the resignation of sub-delegate Alfonso Rodríguez. Politicians, including Miquel Ángel Contreras and Podemos leader Pablo Fernández, have called for accountability, citing the incident as a symptom of failing policies that prioritize tourism over local housing and environmental stability. Context of Anti-Tourism Activism The movement is driven by grievances regarding the displacement of locals, housing crises, and environmental degradation; in Mallorca, there are over 100,000 tourist rental properties for a population of 979,000. This is part of a broader trend of increased state repression against anti-tourism movements across Spain, including the targeting of activists in Mallorca and Barcelona for minor offenses like graffiti or protest actions.
El Salto · 1 week ago
Activism
Deep Resistance to Trump in the U.S.: A Social Mosaic and the Struggle for Democracy
Donald Trump's presidencies have faced significant, widespread, and ongoing internal resistance across the United States. Movements encompass reproductive rights, climate change, gun control, education, racial justice, democracy protection, Palestinian solidarity, and migrant rights. Resistance initiatives, most notably the 'No Kings' movement, have successfully mobilized millions to counter authoritarian and reactionary policy shifts. Key Movements of Resistance Women's Rights and Abortion: Since the 2017 'Women's March,' activists have mobilized heavily against the 2022 Supreme Court reversal of Roe v. Wade; abortion rights advocates have won ballot initiatives in 13 states, including conservative strongholds like Kansas and Kentucky. Black Lives Matter: Following the 2020 murder of George Floyd, the movement sparked the largest protests in U.S. history, with estimates of up to 26 million participants, successfully shifting national discourse on systemic racism. Democracy and 'No Kings': Emerging in response to presidential overreach, the 'No Kings' movement held massive mobilizations; by March 2026, events in over 3,300 locations drew approximately 8 million participants. Palestinian Solidarity: Campus-led divestment campaigns and protests against U.S. military support for Israel have reached an unprecedented scale since 2023. Migrant Protection: Networks have formed to oppose ICE policies, raids, and family separations, organizing thousands of actions across all 50 states. Political and Labor Impact Labor resurgence: 2021-2026 saw a spike in strikes across the auto, service, and education sectors, challenging economic inequality and corporate power. Electoral Success: The election of Zohran Mamdani as mayor of New York in 2025, supported by grassroots mobilization rather than corporate funding, signals a growing capacity for left-wing electoral alternatives. Challenges and Constraints Resistance efforts face growing repression, the influence of conservative media, and severe political polarization. The killing of activists Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti by ICE agents underscores the extreme risks faced by those opposing state policies.
El Salto · 1 week ago
Activism
Tens of Thousands Protest Mass Overtourism in Palma
Thousands gathered in Palma to protest against overtourism and its impact on housing accessibility. Estimates of attendance ranged from 25,000 (government) to 70,000 (organizers), with protesters demanding the right to live on the island. Recent aggressive police tactics against activists have fueled social tension and sparked official condemnations. Overtourism and Housing Crisis The island has a population of 979,000 residents, but more than 100,000 properties are dedicated to tourist rentals, effectively displacing locals. Protesters held signs condemning the industry for destroying local life and rendering housing unaffordable for residents. Conflicts and Police Conduct The protest concluded with police charging at demonstrators near La Seu, resulting in multiple injuries, including a photojournalist. Two activists from the collective 'Menys Turisme, Més Vida' were previously arrested and handcuffed for painting a real estate office; their lawyer claims their fundamental rights were violated through threats and improper detention procedures. Public Reaction and Future Actions The Santa Maria city council passed a unanimous motion condemning the lack of police proportionality and the criminalization of peaceful protest. The activist collective has published a manual for direct, non-violent action against the tourism model, which they term a tool for "self-defense." Further demonstrations are planned across Mallorca, including in the town of Sóller, where there are currently 75 tourist spots for every 100 residents.
El Salto · 1 week ago
Activism
Nicholas Mirzoeff: The Gaza Conflict and the New Visual Activism
Nicholas Mirzoeff’s new book, Mirar en la oscuridad (Seeing in the Dark), examines how the crisis in Gaza has fundamentally shifted global perceptions and visual politics. Visual activism is defined as the practice of breaking away from a colonial "white sight" to acknowledge the full humanity and equality of others, particularly in zones of systemic exclusion. The solidarity movement for Palestine has emerged as a global grassroots force, establishing a new moral baseline that challenges traditional political narratives. Visual Activism and the 'Kill Zone' The "white sight"—the perspective of the overseer or the drone operator—focuses on a narrow, hierarchical "kill zone" while ignoring everything outside that focus. "Seeing in the dark" rejects this top-down perspective, opting instead for a horizontal mode of vision that fosters connection, mutual recognition, and the reclamation of common space. The author argues that Gaza is not an exception but a mirror of the world, highlighting the global normalization of incarceration, racism, and state violence. Solidarity as Resistance Moving from individual disassociation to collective association is essential; it transforms the paralyzing question of "what can I do?" into the empowering "what can we do?" Drawing on John Berger's concept of "undefeatable despair," Mirzoeff suggests that feeling despair is inevitable, but yielding to it is a strategic defeat desired by the oppressor. Resistance is characterized as a "murmuration"—spontaneous, flexible, and decentralized collective action that does not rely on traditional political parties or singular decisive events. Tangible Actions The author emphasizes that while small-scale actions may feel minor, they build alternative worlds and create tangible differences in the lives of the oppressed. All proceeds from the Spanish edition of his book go to 'Hassala,' a collective providing consistent wages to artists and cultural workers in Gaza. As AI-generated content complicates public discourse, Mirzoeff stresses the necessity of persistent local engagement and long-term organizational work to dismantle the conditions that permit genocide.
El Salto · 2 weeks ago
Activism
Standing Together Campaign Launches 'Peace Map' Initiative
Standing Together is utilizing "deep canvassing" to build grassroots support for peace, drawing on techniques successful in the U.S. marriage equality movement. The campaign aims to unite diverse populations—Jewish and Palestinian, urban and rural—by demonstrating that a majority desires peace over endless conflict. A new "Peace Map" serves as an interactive digital tool where supporters can place pins to visualize the shared desire for an alternative to war. Nearly 10 "peace booths" are currently active nationwide, with approximately 10 volunteers at each location engaging hundreds of citizens weekly. Methodology and Objectives Deep canvassing facilitates honest, open-ended conversations with people across various backgrounds, including those initially opposed to the movement's message. Organizers address the common perception that there is "no alternative" to the current violence. The primary goal is to shift public consciousness by proving that a desire for safety and dignity is a collective, rather than isolated, sentiment. Campaign Outreach The physical "peace booths" serve as hubs for ongoing dialogue and recruitment. Plans are underway to expand the visibility of these efforts by sharing recorded conversations and campaign content online.
Pressenza · 2 weeks ago
Activism
The 'Cockroach' Revolt: Indian Youth Challenge the Modi Government
Thousands of Indian students have formed the 'Cockroach Janta Party' (CJP) to protest against government incompetence following the cancellation of the high-stakes NEET medical entrance exam due to widespread cheating. Youth leaders reclaimed the insulting term 'cockroaches' used by the Chief Justice of India, turning it into a powerful symbol of generational defiance against the administration of Narendra Modi. The movement has evolved from an education-focused protest into a national reckoning on youth unemployment, structural inequality, and government authoritarianism. Origins and Escalation The NEET exam, taken by 2.5 million students for 130,000 spots, was cancelled on May 3, 2026, leading to massive protests and over 20 student suicides. Journalist Abhijeet Dipke launched the CJP on social media to demand the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, gaining massive traction despite government attempts to ignore or suppress them. After months of camping at Jantar Mantar, protesters marched on the Indian Parliament in July, facing violent police repression that left dozens injured and arrested, according to Human Rights Watch. Economic Context of Discontent India suffers from severe wealth inequality, with 1% of the population holding 40% of the wealth while the bottom 50% hold only 3%, according to Oxfam. Despite a growing economy, the country faces a 40% unemployment rate among graduates, with 80% of total unemployment comprised of young people stuck in precarious work. Critics argue that since 2014, the Modi government has focused on corporate interests while neglecting the creation of quality jobs for the youth. Government Response and Outlook Prime Minister Narendra Modi's late claims that "nothing is more important than the youth" were mocked by the CJP, who pointedly reminded him of the government's previous inaction and police brutality. High-profile activists like Sonam Wangchuk have joined the cause, emphasizing a need for public education reform, while opposition leaders like Rahul Gandhi have faced detention for supporting the movement. The movement faces the challenge of sustaining momentum against a deeply entrenched power structure that prioritizes economic growth for the elite over long-term stability for the youth.
El Salto · 2 weeks ago
Activism
Satyam Homeland Hosts Discussion on Restorative Justice Amid Ongoing Violence
Satyam Homeland hosts a live online conversation on restorative justice in the context of the Israel/Palestine conflict. Featuring Tarek Maassarani, an expert in Restorative Justice and Nonviolent Communication. The session focuses on questioning definitions of accountability and repair in environments characterized by persistent violence. Event Overview Date: Wednesday, July 29. Time: 8:00 PM Jerusalem time. Format: Online via Zoom; free and open to the public. Speaker Profile Tarek Maassarani is an educator and practitioner specializing in peace, justice, and nonviolent communication. He possesses a personal background spanning Jewish–Muslim roots in Haifa, Tripoli, and Washington, D.C. He brings decades of field experience in supporting communities through deep division and conflict. Core Objectives Challenging the notion that restorative justice is impractical during times of crisis. Exploring how to avoid dehumanization in polarized public discourse. Discussing the concept of accountability as a constructive process rather than purely punitive measures. Fostering human connection and shared responsibility within the community based in the Occupied West Bank.
Pressenza · 2 weeks ago
Activism
Change in Motion: APC's Quarterly Digest on Global Digital Justice
APC’s latest digest highlights global initiatives to promote digital justice, human rights, and environmental sustainability while countering corporate-driven AI risks. The network focuses on building community-centred infrastructure, advocating for rights-based AI regulation, and supporting digital rights activists amid shrinking civic space. Key Issues in AI and Digital Rights APC is actively advocating for a human rights-based, feminist approach to AI governance at the UN, emphasizing transparency and accountability. Concerns persist regarding the environmental and human rights impact of extractive corporate AI models. Joint advocacy efforts, such as the statement regarding 7amleh’s report on Meta’s enablement of settlement activity, underscore the need for platform accountability. Community-Centred Connectivity Initiatives like the LocNet project focus on local governance, funding mechanisms, and skill-building in Latin America, Africa, and Asia. Recent developments include the South Africa School of Digital Policy, community network bootcamps, and national strategies for connectivity in countries like Colombia, Nigeria, and the Philippines. Protecting Rights and Promoting Justice Research initiatives are documenting technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV) and systemic digital inequalities, notably in Uganda, Kenya, South Africa, and the Philippines. Reports highlight digital repression and censorship in conflict zones, particularly in Myanmar and Palestine. New tools and platforms, such as Reportrix in Nigeria and Areopagítica for digital security, aim to provide grassroots organizations with essential protection and resources. Sustaining Collective Resilience Organizations are shifting focus toward building commons-based digital infrastructure as an alternative to profit-driven Big Tech services. Strategic collaborations, such as the position paper on sustainable funding for the Global South, address the financial and operational challenges faced by digital rights defenders in an increasingly restrictive political climate.
APC · 2 weeks ago
Activism
Peace Gathering to Commemorate 81st Anniversary of Hiroshima and Nagasaki
Peace activists are organizing a commemorative gathering on August 2, 2026, at the New York City Public Library to mark the 81st anniversary of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki atomic bombings. The event aims to honor victims of the bombings and subsequent nuclear testing, while demanding accountability and nuclear disarmament from the U.S. government. Background and Context The 1945 atomic bombings killed an estimated 210,000 people and left lasting health consequences for survivors. Many Korean victims, who were forcibly displaced to Japan during the imperial occupation, remain largely excluded from historical recognition and nuclear abolition discussions. A People’s Tribunal on the U.S. Atomic Bombings is scheduled for November 2026 in Seoul, South Korea. Modern Nuclear Concerns Organizers argue that a "second Cold War" between the U.S. and China over economic, military, and AI dominance is exacerbating the global nuclear arms race. Emerging risks include the potential military application of AI and renewed interest in small modular reactors (SMRs). Participating Organizations The gathering is spearheaded by Veterans for Peace – NYC Chapter 34 and the Manhattan Project for a Nuclear-Free World. Supporting organizations include Pax Christi, Peace Action, the War Resisters League, and various other activist groups committed to global disarmament.
Pressenza · 2 weeks ago
Activism
Communities Walk Out of DENR Scoping, Demand Halt to Smokey Mountain Projects
Affected communities and the Manila Anti-Incinerator Alliance (MAIA) walked out of a second public scoping session hosted by the DENR-EMB, citing frustration over ignored project violations. Protesters claim the proposed "Smokey Mountain Land Rehabilitation Project" is a front for a waste-to-energy (WTE) incineration facility. Residents demand the DENR cease project activities, citing unauthorized pre-construction work, harassment, and displacement. Project Controversy and Claims MAIA asserts that Smokey Mountain has already undergone decades of restoration and community development, now featuring vegetation and no visible methane-related smoke. The Court Receiver claims the project is intended to support the Supreme Court Mandamus on Manila Bay Rehabilitation; however, MAIA argues the Receiver has no legal authority to conduct land redevelopment or construction, as their mandate is limited to asset preservation. Proponents allegedly aim to clear the land of "legacy waste" to facilitate the construction of a waste-burning plant. Community Demands Immediate termination of all proposed projects in the area. Enforcement of the national incineration ban per the Clean Air Act and Ecological Solid Waste Management Act. End to forced evictions and intimidation by security personnel. Provision of on-site, in-city housing for affected residents.
Pressenza · 2 weeks ago
Activism
Cultural Resistance in Argentina: Art and Community in the Milei Era
Argentina's cultural sector is responding to Javier Milei's administration through collective creation and the maintenance of independent creative spaces. Artists and citizens are prioritizing "the power of practice," continuing to produce work and foster community despite the lack of traditional political alternatives. Literature and Publishing The 50th Buenos Aires International Book Fair set a record with 1.34 million attendees, demonstrating a strong public commitment to reading. Writers including Selva Almada, Leila Guerriero, and Gabriela Cabezón Cámara have used public platforms to critique the administration's degradation of public discourse and resource management. Regional independent book fairs are proliferating, complemented by new initiatives like the book delivery app 'Leídos Ya'. Contemporary Art and Performance Artist Guillermo Kuitca and the Arthaus gallery are revitalizing urban districts with exhibitions that address democratic fragility. Tomás Sarraceno is developing 'Water Sanctuary' in Salta, an installation protesting water privatization and promoting sustainable tourism. The performing arts sector is mitigating state funding cuts by forming cooperatives to lower costs and maintain theatrical access as an essential "therapeutic" ritual. Pop Culture and Digital Media Pop stars like Lali Expósito and María Becerra have become prominent voices of resistance, frequently targeted by presidential insults for their stance against state budget cuts. YouTube streaming channels such as Gelatina, Blender, and AZZ have emerged as vital platforms for political dissent, effectively challenging the government’s narrative. Community and Public Goods Projects like the 'Laboratory of Performative Journalism' by Anfibia emphasize collective creation as a counter-movement to official individualism. Public universities and non-profit football clubs remain significant sites of resistance; they are widely viewed as essential collective assets that continue to defend themselves against privatization efforts.
La Marea · 2 weeks ago
Activism
Peru: Gen Z Activists Launch 'Legado Nacional Unido' to Reform Politics
Gen Z activists in Peru launched a new political organization called "Legado Nacional Unido" to increase youth participation in public affairs. The group aims to transform widespread political frustration into structured, democratic action. Founders emphasize the need for new leadership to combat institutional decay, impunity, and the erosion of the rule of law in Peru. Launch and Leadership The organization was inaugurated on Monday the 20th at the Alberto Andrade Auditorium of the Congress of the Republic. Institutional Council members include Yackov Solano, Flavia Nestares, Josué Ramos, and Caroline Buitrón. The movement seeks to represent youth from all regions of Peru, prioritizing dialogue, democracy, and national diversity. Support and Mission High-profile supporters include former presidential candidate Mesías Guevara, Senator-elect Ruth Luque, and representatives from human rights and indigenous organizations. The event concluded with the signing of a Founding Charter, establishing a framework for youth-led national development. Participants emphasized that "there is no room for neutrality" regarding human rights and political accountability, calling on youth to be the active "present" rather than just the "future" of the country.
Pressenza · 2 weeks ago
Activism
The Nun Who Wanted to Change the World: Sister Mary John Mananzan
Sister Mary John Mananzan, a Benedictine nun, has been a prominent activist in the Philippines for over five decades, advocating for the poor, women's rights, and environmental protection. She co-founded the grassroots women's alliance GABRIELA in 1984 and served as its chairperson for 18 years, while also founding the Institute of Women Studies at St. Scholastica’s College. Mananzan is known for "speaking truth to power," frequently challenging the Catholic Church's conservative stances on reproductive rights and vocally condemning government corruption. Activist Roots and Foundational Moments Her "baptism of fire" occurred in 1975 during a strike at the La Tondeña distillery, the first open labor protest under Ferdinand Marcos’ martial law. Witnessing the brutal military crackdown on workers inspired her to form "Friends of Workers" and shift her focus to systemic labor conditions. The Motivation Behind the Mission Mananzan grounds her activism in her religious vows, interpreting the life of Christ as an "option for the poor." She credits her spiritual journey and exposure to religious texts—specifically those referencing the "Christopher Approach"—for shaping her conviction that a nun should actively work to change the world. Continued Engagement At 88, she remains active as a school administrator and a go-to voice for media on controversial social issues. She remains deeply involved in public life, having addressed the "Trillion Peso March" against government corruption in 2025 and leading the 40th-anniversary commemoration of the EDSA People Power Revolution in 2026.
Pressenza · 2 weeks ago

Activism

Protesting Palantir: A Global Movement Against Surveillance Tech and Authoritarianism

Palantir is facing increasing global backlash for providing data analytics software to governments and military agencies, facilitating controversial activities such as immigration enforcement (ICE), target identification in military operations, and domestic surveillance. The 'Purge Palantir' campaign is an organized civil society effort aimed at exposing these unethical business practices and pressuring government institutions and private firms to cut ties with the company. Resistance is growing across the political spectrum, as both left-wing activists and right-wing populists increasingly view Palantir's surveillance infrastructure as a threat to democratic norms. Key Controversies Data Consolidation: Palantir acts as a 'central operating system' for governments, aggregating disparate data sets to facilitate the tracking and targeting of individuals, notably aiding ICE in its enforcement operations. Surveillance and Tracking: The software goes beyond pattern recognition, utilizing facial recognition systems to identify and target protesters and dissidents. Military and Humanitarian Impact: Palantir has been implicated in military operations, including providing targeting assistance for Israeli defense forces in Gaza, which critics argue has contributed to widespread civilian harm. Strategies of Resistance Political Pressure: Through the 'Palantir Payroll' initiative, activists are tracking US congresspeople receiving money from the firm, successfully pressuring several to renounce future funding due to the company's controversial profile. Public Education: A central goal of the campaign is to raise awareness about the specific harms caused by Palantir, ensuring that businesses and public officials understand the moral implications of using their software. Global Solidarity: The campaign is benefiting from international cooperation, with movements in Europe—such as protests against Palantir's involvement in the UK National Health Service and opposition by German civil groups—proving more effective than in the US under the current administration. Future Outlook While half of Palantir's revenue comes from the US federal government, the other half stems from the private sector and international governments. Activists believe that halting Palantir's expansion into European public institutions is a critical strategy to limit the company's global influence and power.

netzpolitik.org · 1 day ago

EFF at DEF CON 34: Community, Privacy, and Advocacy

Resistance Against Palantir: An Interview with 'Purge Palantir' Activists

Protesting Palantir: A Global Movement Against Surveillance Tech and Authoritarianism

Preparatory Meeting Held in Ishwardi, Bangladesh for the 4th World March for Peace and Nonviolence

Flamingo Revolution: Albanian Protests Intensify Amid Police Crackdown

When India’s youth tested the limits of centralised governance

Community-Centered Connectivity: Driving Socio-Environmental Justice

Massive Anti-Tourism Protest in Mallorca Ends in Police Violence and 12 Injuries

Deep Resistance to Trump in the U.S.: A Social Mosaic and the Struggle for Democracy

Tens of Thousands Protest Mass Overtourism in Palma

Nicholas Mirzoeff: The Gaza Conflict and the New Visual Activism

Standing Together Campaign Launches 'Peace Map' Initiative

The 'Cockroach' Revolt: Indian Youth Challenge the Modi Government

Satyam Homeland Hosts Discussion on Restorative Justice Amid Ongoing Violence

Change in Motion: APC's Quarterly Digest on Global Digital Justice

Peace Gathering to Commemorate 81st Anniversary of Hiroshima and Nagasaki

Communities Walk Out of DENR Scoping, Demand Halt to Smokey Mountain Projects

Cultural Resistance in Argentina: Art and Community in the Milei Era

Peru: Gen Z Activists Launch 'Legado Nacional Unido' to Reform Politics

The Nun Who Wanted to Change the World: Sister Mary John Mananzan

EFF at DEF CON 34: Community, Privacy, and Advocacy

Resistance Against Palantir: An Interview with 'Purge Palantir' Activists

Protesting Palantir: A Global Movement Against Surveillance Tech and Authoritarianism

Preparatory Meeting Held in Ishwardi, Bangladesh for the 4th World March for Peace and Nonviolence

Flamingo Revolution: Albanian Protests Intensify Amid Police Crackdown

When India’s youth tested the limits of centralised governance

Community-Centered Connectivity: Driving Socio-Environmental Justice

Massive Anti-Tourism Protest in Mallorca Ends in Police Violence and 12 Injuries

Deep Resistance to Trump in the U.S.: A Social Mosaic and the Struggle for Democracy

Tens of Thousands Protest Mass Overtourism in Palma

Nicholas Mirzoeff: The Gaza Conflict and the New Visual Activism

Standing Together Campaign Launches 'Peace Map' Initiative

The 'Cockroach' Revolt: Indian Youth Challenge the Modi Government

Satyam Homeland Hosts Discussion on Restorative Justice Amid Ongoing Violence

Change in Motion: APC's Quarterly Digest on Global Digital Justice

Peace Gathering to Commemorate 81st Anniversary of Hiroshima and Nagasaki

Communities Walk Out of DENR Scoping, Demand Halt to Smokey Mountain Projects

Cultural Resistance in Argentina: Art and Community in the Milei Era

Peru: Gen Z Activists Launch 'Legado Nacional Unido' to Reform Politics

The Nun Who Wanted to Change the World: Sister Mary John Mananzan