Between safety and solidarity: international students' perspectives on the July revolution in Bangladesh

Abstract

This research examines the understanding of participation and obstacles that international students in Bangladesh faced during the youth uprising of 2024 known as the July Revolution. Through interviews and qualitative research methods, the study investigates the relationship between cultural background legal obstacles, and online activism which affected their connection to the movement. Those students who come from politically restricted countries like Bhutan and Tanzania focused on staying safe while maintaining their academic achievements but the students from activist countries such as Nigeria and Uganda showed solidarity yet took safety precautions. The media platform’s role was focused on delivering immediate news and misleading information simultaneously which compelled students to create critical verification systems to assess information truthfulness. This research shows that Hofstede’s cultural dimensions specifically power distance and uncertainty avoidance determine how individuals perceive risk and participate in it. Some students overcame obstacles to participate in transnational solidarity programs through digital activism resulting in global protests being spread internationally. International student activism abroad results from the convergence of personal identity with structural restrictions along with the process of political education. The study makes valuable contributions to scholarly research about youth activism together with online engagement and cross-border connection during times of educational globalization. I recommend developing inclusion-based policies that protect foreign students from political disturbances yet promote active participation. The July Revolution demonstrates how transnational activism can potentially link activists but also demonstrates restrictions that require attention to media literacy and protected dissident areas.