Are Public Protests Worth It?

Public protests are one of the most disruptive forms of activism. By rallying large crowds under a single banner, public demonstrations have an unparalleled ability to incite change, fostering international awareness and support for movements by giving activists visibility. However, public protests unquestionably come with their drawbacks.

After the record-breaking flash floods in Valencia caused hundreds of deaths, thousands of protestors have called for accountability from the authorities for the poor handling of one of Europe’s deadliest natural disasters in decades. While the protestors’ grief is justified, the protest itself has blocked highways and government offices, disrupting daily commutes for approximately 2.5 million people and costing 100 million euros in economic losses.

While protests have historically raised awareness and spurred policy discussions, we must continue to analyse and evaluate their role in activism. Although their benefits are certainly undeniable, we must also acknowledge the severe disruption they cause to society.

Such protests can uniquely empower marginalised communities, providing them with a platform to demand justice and reparations. Additionally, it offers global attention to localised issues, especially as media outlets begin to cover the stories of these activists. As a result, this prompts the authorities to accelerate policy action, ensuring that governmental institutions remain accountable to the people.

However, public protests are also notorious for disrupting public order. Protests, especially large-scale ones, can easily escalate into violent confrontations with law enforcement personnel or other groups of protestors. This violence detracts from the campaign's original message and causes unnecessary harm on both sides. Additionally, protests result in immense economic disruption, especially in trade, transport, and local businesses. Consequently, citizens may withdraw their support for the movement when they are forced to bear the brunt of the economic consequences.

Understanding the trade-offs activists face when deciding to stage a public protest is crucial. By weighing potential disruptions against the urgency of the demands, this helps to minimise the societal detriments that will arise from the public protest. As a result, this would help activists concentrate their efforts on bringing about meaningful change in a responsible manner.