The Ghost of Protests Past: How Untraceable Online Calls Are Fueling a New Wave of Disruption
A planned nationwide disruption on September 10th, 2025, originating from anonymous online calls, is already echoing the spontaneous combustion of the 2018 “yellow vests” movement in France. But this time, the speed and opacity of the organizing – fueled by platforms like TikTok and Telegram – are raising the stakes, and suggesting a future where traditional protest structures are increasingly bypassed. The question isn’t just what they’re protesting, but how this new form of digitally-driven unrest will reshape civic action.
From Nebulous Origins to Real-World Impact
Unlike traditional movements anchored by unions, political parties, or established advocacy groups, the call to “block everything” on September 10th emerged from the digital ether. As Sabine Raynaud, a school teacher in Montpellier, points out, the origin isn’t necessarily the point: “It doesn’t matter who started it, because it corresponded to the right need for the population.” This sentiment highlights a crucial shift. The source of the call is becoming less important than its resonance with widespread discontent. This echoes the 2018 “yellow vests” protests, where the initial spark on social media remained largely untraceable.
The tactics being discussed online – particularly on encrypted Telegram channels – are strikingly familiar. Roadblocks around strategic infrastructure, reminiscent of the “yellow vests” occupation of roundabouts, are being actively proposed. The spontaneous creation of “bases of life” – makeshift camps providing shelter and a space for discussion – is also being floated as a potential strategy. This isn’t simply a replay of past events; it’s a demonstration of how quickly and easily protest playbooks can be resurrected and adapted in the digital age.
The Power of Decentralized Organizing
The key difference between these movements and more traditional forms of protest lies in the decentralized nature of the organization. Without a central leadership structure, there’s no single point of failure, and no clear figurehead to negotiate with. This makes these movements incredibly resilient, but also potentially unpredictable. The initial demands, like those seen in the summer of 2024, are often broad and encompassing, reflecting a generalized sense of frustration rather than a specific policy objective. This “catch-all” approach can broaden appeal, but also makes it harder to translate protest into concrete political change.
The Telegram Effect: Encryption and Escalation
The increasing reliance on encrypted messaging apps like Telegram is a significant factor. While offering a secure space for organizing, it also creates an echo chamber where radical ideas can flourish unchecked. Telegram’s channel-based structure allows for rapid dissemination of information and coordination, but also makes it difficult to monitor and counter misinformation. This is a growing concern for law enforcement and intelligence agencies, who are struggling to keep pace with the speed and complexity of these online movements. A recent report by the RAND Corporation highlights the role of online platforms in facilitating radicalization and the challenges of content moderation.
Echoes of the Past, Warnings for the Future
The parallels with the “yellow vests” are undeniable. Both movements originated from online calls, lacked clear leadership, and relied on disruptive tactics. However, the current landscape is even more fragmented and volatile, thanks to the proliferation of social media platforms and the increasing sophistication of online organizing tools. The speed at which these movements can mobilize and adapt is unprecedented.
Furthermore, the anonymity afforded by these platforms can embolden individuals to engage in more extreme behavior. The lack of accountability can also lead to the spread of misinformation and the escalation of tensions. This raises serious questions about the future of public order and the ability of governments to effectively manage these new forms of protest.
Navigating the New Disruption Landscape
The rise of these untraceable, digitally-driven protests isn’t a sign of societal breakdown, but a symptom of a deeper disconnect between citizens and traditional institutions. Addressing this disconnect requires a multi-faceted approach, including greater transparency, increased civic engagement, and a willingness to listen to the concerns of marginalized communities. Ignoring these movements, or simply attempting to suppress them, will only exacerbate the problem. Understanding the dynamics of online organizing and the motivations of those involved is crucial for developing effective strategies to mitigate the risks and harness the potential for positive change.
What are your predictions for the future of digitally-driven protests? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
