Slavoj Zizek: Bai Lan in China and Tang Ping in Serbia Reveal Global Trends of Resignation and Rebellion

In our interconnected world, social and economic changes are often ripple effects that span continents. Two such phenomena have recently come to light in vastly different contexts: the bai lan movement in China and the tang ping sentiment in Serbia. Both reflect a widespread attitude of passive resignation against societal expectations, while Serbia has also seen a powerful wave of protests that challenge political authority directly.

Bai Lan in China: The Spirit of Passive Resistance

Younger Chinese are increasingly adopting the attitude of passive resignation known as bai lan, a Chinese term that translates to “let it rot.” This mentality emerging among the youth signifies disillusionment with the economic landscape and frustration with rigid cultural norms. Instead of engaging in high-stakes competition, bai lan encourages individuals to perform the minimum at work and prioritize personal well-being.

Tang Ping in China: A Call to Refrain from the ‘Useless Race’

The buzzword tang ping, meaning “lying flat,” is another expression of this sentiment. It captures the emptiness and futility many Chinese feel in pursuing constant achievement and social validation. Tang ping is not just about individual disengagement but also reflects a broader societal critique of the expectations laid by the system.

Serbia’s Student Protest: Brave and Subversive

In contrast to China’s resignatory spirit, Serbia is witnessing a surge in civic activism inspired by widespread social and professional injustices. The student movement, known for its slogan “We have no political demands,” began in November following a tragic rail station roof collapse that resulted in 15 deaths and two injuries.

The protesters’ grievances are wide-ranging, addressing systemic issues like corruption, ecological destruction, and political oppression. Their non-violent stance and clear demands for transparency and accountability represent a novel form of protestation, which defies traditional models by rejecting both violence and political compromise.

The EU’s Complicated Role in Serbia’s Protest

Interestingly, the Serbian protests shed light on another critical aspect: the European Union’s response (or lack thereof) to the uprising. Despite Serbia’s candidate status for EU membership since 2012, European leaders have remained largely silent, preoccupied with maintaining stability and securing lithium exports.

This silence underscores a larger issue within the EU: prioritizing economic interests over genuine democratic reforms and human rights. The irony of von der Leyen’s support for “democracy fighters” in Georgia while ignoring Serbian protesters who embody the same values is stark.

Radicalism of the NonPolitical

The Serbian protesters’ approach, characterized as “apolitical,” is more accurately understood as a radical refusal to engage with corrupted institutions. Their actions offer a unique blueprint for challenging systemic issues without resorting to violence or traditional political strategies.

Lessons from Serbia: Transparency and Accountability

By demanding transparency and accountability, the Serbian protesters are aiming to disrupt the grip of authoritarianism and corruption. This demand for change, rooted in a call for law and order, highlights the importance of institutions serving the public interest over personal gain or political ideology.

The Global Significance of These Movements

The emergence of bai lan and tang ping in China, alongside the Serbian protests, reveals a global trend of resistance against unjust systems and the pressure to conform. These movements, though different in their expressions, share a common thread: a rejection of blind acceptance of societal norms and a call for fundamental changes.

Supporting the Voices of Change

In support of these movements, it is crucial for the international community, including organizations like the EU, to take a proactive stance. This involves advocating for transparency, accountability, and the protection of human rights across all regions, particularly in countries undergoing significant political transitions.

Conclusion

The rise of bai lan, tang ping, and the Serbian protests underscores the importance of civic engagement in shaping societal norms and addressing systemic injustices. These movements invite us to question the status quo and seek alternate paths toward a more equitable and just world.

Share your thoughts on these movements and their implications for global politics and society in the comments below.