Youth Movements in Asia, Past and Present: The Transnational Side of the Story

In recent years, young activists across Asia have forged creative alliances to confront authoritarianism and oppression. Despite the distinct political contexts of Burma, Thailand, and Hong Kong, these movements have found common ground in their shared resistance to autocracy and Beijing’s growing influence. The Milk Tea Alliance, named for the iconic drinks of their respective cultures, symbolizes this transnational solidarity.

In this talk, renowned historian and author Jeffrey Wasserstrom discusses his forthcoming book, The Milk Tea Alliance: Inside Asia's Struggle Against Autocracy and Beijing. Drawing on his extensive travels and interviews with key activists, including Thailand’s Netiwit Chotiphatphaisal, Hong Kong’s Agnes Chow, and Burma’s Ye Myint Win, Wasserstrom examines how these movements connect across borders, share strategies, and sustain each other in their fight for democracy.

Join us for an engaging exploration of the democratic ideals, challenges, and enduring spirit driving youth movements in Asia, presented by one of the leading voices on the region’s modern history and activism.

Speaker:

Jeffrey Wasserstrom is Chancellor's Professor of History at UC Irvine. The author of books such as Vigil: Hong Kong on the Brink (2020), his new book will deal with protests in Bangkok and Burma as well as Hong Kong. It is titled The Milk Tea Alliance: Inside Asia's Struggle Against Autocracy and Beijing and will be published by Columbia Global Reports in June.

Venue:

Freie Universität Berlin, Fabeckstr. 23-25, 14195 Berlin, Seminar Room 0.2001