The trap of idealism and the realities of governance

By Thareendra Kalpage

Revolutions continue to captivate societies with the promise of transformative change, yet most fail to achieve lasting success. Despite the powerful allure of overthrowing oppressive regimes, modern revolutions face significant challenges, from leadership deficits to ideological rigidity. This article explores why contemporary revolutions often falter, highlighting how utopian ideals and practical realities clash, often leading to unmet expectations.

The evolution of revolution: From total overhaul to urban civic movements

In the 21st century, revolutions have increasingly taken the form of urban civic movements rather than comprehensive social overhauls. Unlike past revolutions, which often led to dramatic, though brutal, societal restructuring, modern movements focus on deposing specific leaders rather than dismantling entire systems. This limited scope often leads to uncertain outcomes, with most movements failing to establish robust democratic systems post-revolution​.

Urban civic revolutions, which tend to occur in response to neoliberal reforms and economic dissatisfaction, aim to mobilise large segments of the population, especially the educated urban middle class. This demographic, frustrated by declining public services and rising inequality, is often the driving force behind these movements. However, while these revolutions may bring temporary increases in political freedoms and government accountability, they frequently lack the organisational structure necessary to bring about long-term institutional change

Neoliberalism and economic discontent as catalysts

Economic discontent remains a powerful catalyst for revolution. In many cases, neoliberal policies, characterised by reduced public spending and privatisation, have exacerbated income inequality and limited access to essential services. The Arab Spring, which began in Tunisia and spread across the Middle East, was significantly driven by these economic grievances. Rising unemployment, high food prices, and corruption left many citizens feeling alienated and disenfranchised, leading them to demand change

However, while economic grievances can mobilise mass support, they rarely translate into coherent post-revolutionary policies. These movements often need a concrete plan for addressing systemic economic issues to build sustainable economic frameworks.

The trap of utopian ideals

Many revolutions are driven by utopian ideals, envisioning a society free from inequality and corruption. While such aspirations can inspire people to action, they can also become obstacles. Utopian movements often prioritise ideological purity over practical governance, leading to internal divisions and the marginalisation of more moderate factions. As Mark Beissinger points out, utopian movements can quickly spiral into authoritarianism, as was the case with the Russian Revolution and Cambodia under the Khmer Rouge. Both movements sought to create classless societies but ultimately resorted to violence and repression to maintain control.

In modern revolutions, this ideological rigidity often alienates potential allies as participants with differing agendas struggle to find common ground. The rapid dissemination of revolutionary ideals via social media amplifies these divisions, creating a fragmented coalition that is less effective at governing once in power. Without experienced leaders capable of balancing ideological goals with practical concerns, these movements can often not transition from protest to governance effectively.

Leadership deficits and fragmented coalitions

One of the significant challenges for contemporary revolutions is the need for more experienced leadership. Many revolutionary leaders are adept at rallying support and inciting change. Still, they must gain the skills required to manage a government. This leadership gap often results in power vacuums, as seen in Egypt’s 2011 revolution, where the lack of a cohesive strategy allowed the military to reclaim control, stalling democratic progress.

Additionally, the broad coalitions that fuel these movements can become liabilities. Although diverse groups may unite against a common enemy, their differing visions for the future make it difficult to establish a unified government. The Libyan Civil War, which followed the overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi, serves as a stark example. The coalition that successfully deposed Gaddafi quickly fractured, leading to protracted conflict and ongoing political instability.

The role of digital media: Mobilisation and fragmentation

The digital age has transformed the nature of revolutionary movements. Social media platforms enable activists to rapidly mobilise support and broadcast their messages globally. While these tools can help draw international attention and bolster support, they also contribute to movement fragmentation. The speed and accessibility of digital communication allow various factions within a movement to promote competing narratives, complicating efforts to establish a cohesive post-revolutionary strategy.

Furthermore, the rapid spread of revolutionary ideas across borders can create spillover effects, as was seen during the Arab Spring. The Tunisian uprising in 2011 inspired similar movements in Egypt, Libya, and Syria, leading to widespread regional instability. While this transnational influence can empower revolutionary movements, it complicates efforts to maintain stability afterwards, as external actors may support conflicting factions, further destabilising the region.

When revolutions succeed: Pragmatism and realistic goals

Although most modern revolutions struggle to achieve lasting success, there are examples of movements that have managed to effect meaningful change. The American Revolution succeeded partly because it had clear, practical goals, such as independence and self-governance. Moreover, the revolutionaries retained much of the colonial political infrastructure, facilitating a smoother transition​.

Another example is the Tunisian Revolution, the only relative success of the Arab Spring. Tunisia’s political culture of compromise and mediation allowed the country to establish a stable democracy. This approach demonstrates that revolutions are more likely to succeed when prioritising gradual change and achievable goals over radical ideological transformations.

Reform over revolution?

Recent history suggests that while revolutions can galvanise public support, sustainable progress often requires a more reform-oriented approach. Revolutionary fervour may bring about temporary change, but lasting success depends on establishing stable institutions, unifying diverse coalitions, and addressing the underlying economic issues that drive discontent.

In nations with established institutions, gradual reform may offer a more reliable path to change than revolutionary upheaval. By working within existing frameworks, societies can progress without the turmoil and uncertainty often accompanying revolutions. The future of meaningful change may lie not with those who seek to dismantle systems but with those who can adapt and reform them from within.

(The writer is a highly regarded entrepreneur, startup investor, business leader, contributor to numerous print and digital media news channels, and an avid observer of the global political landscape, economy, and technological and social developments)