One Piece’s Jolly Roger Becomes Unexpected Symbol in Global Anti-Corruption Protests
One Piece’s Jolly Roger Becomes Unexpected Symbol in Global Anti-Corruption Protests
Protests against government corruption are seeing an unexpected symbol emerge globally: the iconic Jolly Roger flag of the Straw Hat Pirates from the popular anime One Piece. In recent days, this emblem has been prominently displayed by Gen Z demonstrators across Nepal, the Philippines, and France.
In Nepal, young protesters rallying against widespread government corruption and the recent ban on 26 social media platforms flew the Straw Hat Pirates’ flag. Organizers cited the flag’s appeal to Gen Z, aiming to foster a relatable movement. This surge in Nepali activism follows growing frustration over decades of poor governance and powerful politicians flaunting wealth online.
The distinctive flag has also been spotted at anti-corruption rallies at the University of the Philippines Diliman in Quezon City and during demonstrations against President Emmanuel Macron’s planned spending cuts in France. Its adoption signals a unifying cultural touchstone for youth activism.
The trend originated in Indonesia this past August, where the Jolly Roger first appeared amidst protests sparked by controversial policy changes, including a revision to the National Armed Forces Act that would allow military officers to serve in civilian government roles. The widespread adoption of the One Piece symbol underscores a burgeoning global youth movement leveraging pop culture to voice dissent against perceived injustices.
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