By Edward Wallace, First year, Politics and Social Policy
Throughout history, students have ignited revolutions, toppled regimes, and forced governments to reckon with uncomfortable truths. They’ve proven that you don’t need a seat in Parliament to spark change—sometimes all it takes is a rally, a banner, and an unwavering belief in a better world.
From university campuses erupting in protest during the Vietnam War, to Greta Thunberg’s fiery speeches that have shamed global leaders into climate action, student activism has shaped geopolitics in profound ways. In recent years, movements such as the fight for Palestinian rights and the global climate strikes have shown that young voices can influence policy, shift public opinion, and put once-ignored issues at the forefront of global discourse.
But how far can student activism really go? And why should you, as a young person, care about wielding this power?
In March 2024, students at the University of Bristol made headlines when they occupied the Victoria Rooms in solidarity with Palestine. The sit-in, which drew widespread media coverage, called for the university to sever ties with companies complicit in the Israeli occupation. Though controversial, it pressures the administration to commit to reviewing its investments, sparking debates about institutional responsibility.
Their efforts echo earlier movements, such as the Vietnam War protests of the 1960s and 1970s. American students took to the streets in mass demonstrations, not only changing public opinion but also contributing to the eventual withdrawal of U.S. troops. More recently, Greta Thunberg’s school strikes for climate galvanized millions of students across 150 countries, making climate change an unavoidable topic at international summits.
All these examples highlight a critical truth: when students organize, their impact reverberates far beyond the walls of their institutions.
But why are students such a force in geopolitics? The answer lies in their unique position within society. Students are often unencumbered by the responsibilities of full-time jobs or family commitments, giving them the freedom to organize, rally, and dedicate themselves to causes. They’re educated, informed, and connected to social and political networks which make them ideal catalysts for change.
Moreover, universities have historically been hotbeds of intellectual thought and dissent. They are spaces where ideas flourish, debates thrive, and individuals are encouraged to challenge norms—conditions which all help to breed activism.
Students are also representatives of the future generation, a fact that gives them unparalleled moral authority. When young people demand action, it carries the weight of their lived experiences and the knowledge that they will inherit the consequences of today’s decision. Leaders cannot easily dismiss a movement led by the generation that will bear the brunt of a warming planet, rising inequality, or political conflict.
Getting involved in activism doesn’t have to mean leading a march or organizing a sit-in (though those are powerful options). It can start small: joining a society, signing a petition, or attending a local rally. These seemingly minor actions add up, creating a movement that can become impossible to ignore.
University of Bristol to discontinue Forced Swim Tests after years of protests from students and beyond
Hundreds march for women's rights in Bristol
Activism is also about more than showing up. It’s about educating yourself on the issues, amplifying marginalized voices, and strategising to achieve meaningful change. Timing matters too—students should act when injustices and urgent and the moment is ripe for change. Whether it’s standing in solidarity with global causes like Palestine, or addressing local issues such as university divestments, activism thrives on the energy of now.
So why should you get involved? Because silence is complicity. If you believe in something—a fairer world, climate justice, or human rights—your voice matters. Sitting on the sidelines achieves nothing. But taking action, however small, can make a difference. You don’t have to change the world overnight; you just need to take the first step.
Featured Image: Yokeboy / Unsplash
Have you had the chance to get involved in any student activism at Bristol?
