Mr Lukas Nagel1
1Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
Biography:
Thesis: ‘“You messed with the wrong generation!” Resilience and protest motivations among young Myanmar pro-democracy activists in exile
Lukas’ research focuses on the vital role of young activists in challenging authoritarianism, particularly in the context of the February 2021 military coup d'état in Myanmar. His project investigates political motivations and explains why they risk their lives in political struggle. It also explores their future aspirations and protest repertoires.
Before pursuing his studies in Australia, Lukas gained valuable experience working on anti-corruption initiatives in Kenya and engaging in peacebuilding and research efforts across Myanmar, the Philippines, and India. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Sinology (Free University, Germany) and a master’s in Asian studies (Lund University, Sweden). As a certified Peace and Conflict consultant and a committed human rights advocate, he actively contributes to an NGO that supports the democratic aspirations of the Milk Tea Alliance.
Outside of academia, Lukas is a passionate motorcyclist, craft beer enthusiast, teacher, and cinephile. He teaches political science and modules on International Relations at Griffith and in not-for-profit schools.
Abstract:
Fieldwork investigating young people in the Global South is still not on par with contexts in the Global North. The unique context, especially in authoritarian contexts, poses complex challenges regarding ethics, methodologies and social location. In the context of the research on the protest motivations and political demands of young Myanmar activists opposing junta rule in exile, the reservations of many community members against foreign scholars presented a significant challenge. This presentation will use primary data of interlocutors and show their disappointment and often resentment of “foreign experts” and sometimes the ‘Global West’ altogether. However, it also reveals these young activists' remarkable resilience and determination. Firstly, I will briefly describe the unique situations of young diaspora activists fleeing to Thailand. Next, I will bring out their voices to highlight their arguments criticising the role of research in their political struggle. Lastly, I would like to share some humble insight on behaviours, demeanour, and the role of normative support in getting permission to conduct research without doing harm or creating further resentment.
In summary, the presentation contributes both to contextual and general knowledge: it helps to learn about the unique views and political convictions of Myanmar activists associated with the ‘Spring Revolution’ and simultaneously underscores the importance of the ongoing debate on research ethics in fragile contexts and with political youths and social movements altogether.
Keywords: Youth, Social Movements, Myanmar-Thailand Border, Research Ethics