2014 Protests & Revolutions Events — Verified Historical Highlights
2014 Protests & Revolutions Events — Verified Historical Highlights | TakeMeBack.to
- 09 Jan Ukraine Euromaidan protests escalate: On January 9, 2014, protests in Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, intensified as demonstrators clashed with police forces. The unrest was part of the broader Euromaidan movement, demanding closer ties with the European Union and government reforms. source: bbc.com
- 11 Jan Euromaidan Protests: Yuri Lutsenko Injured: Yuri Lutsenko, a prominent leader of the Euromaidan protests in Ukraine, was injured during clashes with police, symbolizing the intense political struggle.
- 15 Jan Thai Political Crisis Intensifies: Protesters continued to blockade Bangkok, demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, escalating the ongoing political instability in Thailand.
- 17 Jan Bangkok political protests turn violent: Protests in Bangkok escalated into violence, with clashes between demonstrators and security forces resulting in multiple injuries and fatalities. source: bbc.com
- 18 Jan Violent Protests in Kiev, Ukraine: On January 18, 2014, violent clashes erupted in Kiev, Ukraine, as protesters confronted police over new anti-protest laws. The unrest marked a significant escalation in the Euromaidan movement, which had been ongoing since November 2013. The confrontations led to numerous injuries and heightened tensions between demonstrators and law enforcement. source: washingtonpost.com
- 19 Jan Euromaidan Protests Turn Violent in Ukraine: On January 19, 2014, the Euromaidan protests in Ukraine escalated into violent confrontations between protesters and police. Demonstrators marched on the Verkhovna Rada, leading to clashes on Hrushevsky Street in Kiev. The violence resulted in multiple injuries and marked a significant intensification of the protests against the government's anti-protest laws. source: washingtonpost.com
- 21 Jan Euromaidan Protests Escalate in Kiev: On January 21, 2014, the Euromaidan protests in Kiev escalated as demonstrators clashed with police forces. The protests, initially sparked by opposition to anti-protest laws, intensified, leading to increased violence and a growing number of injuries. The situation in Kiev remained volatile, with protesters demanding political reforms. source: washingtonpost.com
- 22 Jan Thai Political Crisis: Pro-Government Leader Shot: During the 2013-14 Thai political crisis, Kwanchai Pripana, a prominent leader of the pro-government United Front for Democracy Against Dictatorship (UDD), was shot in Udon Thani. Despite a declared state of emergency, protesters continued to gather in Bangkok, highlighting the intense political tensions in Thailand.
- 24 Jan Ukrainian Political Unrest Escalates: On January 24, 2014, political unrest in Ukraine intensified as protesters clashed with security forces in Kyiv. The demonstrations, initially sparked by opposition to anti-protest laws, evolved into broader demands for government reform and the resignation of President Viktor Yanukovych. The situation led to widespread violence and international concern. source: bbc.com
- 25 Jan Egypt Unrest: Mass Casualties in Anti-Government Protests: On January 25, 2014, mass anti-government protests erupted across Egypt, leading to violent clashes with security forces. The demonstrations resulted in numerous fatalities and injuries, marking a significant escalation in the country's political unrest. The protests were driven by demands for democratic reforms and the resignation of the interim government. source: aljazeera.com
- 05 Feb London Underground workers begin 48-hour strike over job cuts: On February 5, 2014, workers on London's Underground train system initiated a 48-hour strike, protesting against plans to close ticket offices and eliminate over 750 jobs. The strike led to significant disruptions, with only one underground line operating normally during rush hour, and the remaining lines either closed or running reduced services. Commuters faced challenges, with many opting for overcrowded buses or mainline trains. The London Chamber of Commerce and Industry estimated the economic impact of the strike at £50 million per day. source: dw.com
- 12 Feb Venezuela protests escalate: On February 12, 2014, protests in Venezuela escalated as demonstrators took to the streets to demand the resignation of President Nicolás Maduro. The protests were fueled by economic hardships, including high inflation and shortages of basic goods, leading to clashes with security forces. source: bbc.com
- 13 Feb Venezuelan government arrests opposition activists: On February 13, 2014, Venezuelan authorities arrested several opposition activists amid escalating protests against President Nicolás Maduro's government. The arrests were part of a broader crackdown on dissent, drawing criticism from international human rights organizations. source: bbc.com
- 14 Feb Thai Government Deploys Riot Officers in Bangkok: As part of the 2013-14 Thai political crisis, the government deployed thousands of riot officers to reclaim areas in Bangkok occupied by protesters, signaling escalating tensions in the country's political landscape.
- 16 Feb Ukraine protest developments: On February 16, 2014, protests in Ukraine escalated as demonstrators clashed with police in Kyiv's Independence Square. The unrest was part of a broader movement against President Viktor Yanukovych's government, demanding closer ties with the European Union. source: bbc.com
- 17 Feb US Consular Officers Expelled from Venezuela: Venezuela expelled three U.S. consular officers amid escalating tensions related to anti-government protests, accusing them of undermining President Nicolas Maduro's government.
- 18 Feb Ukrainian Revolution of Dignity begins: The Revolution of Dignity, also known as the Euromaidan protests, began on November 21, 2013, and intensified on February 18, 2014, with violent clashes between protesters and security forces in Kyiv. The movement aimed to address issues of government corruption and seek closer ties with the European Union. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 19 Feb Ukraine protests: Yanukovych and opposition agree to truce: On February 19, 2014, Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych and opposition leaders agreed to a truce to halt the escalating violence in Kyiv, following days of deadly clashes between protesters and security forces. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 20 Feb Euromaidan protests: Deadly violence in Kyiv: On February 20, 2014, the Euromaidan protests in Kyiv escalated into deadly violence, with at least 25 people killed as protesters and police clashed in the streets, marking a significant turning point in the Ukrainian Revolution of Dignity. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 21 Feb Deadly Kiev protest crackdown: On February 21, 2014, violent clashes in Kiev resulted in numerous fatalities as police confronted protesters opposing the government. This event marked a significant escalation in the ongoing unrest in Ukraine, leading to widespread condemnation and calls for political reform. source: bbc.com
- 22 Feb Ukrainian parliament expels President Yanukovych: On February 22, 2014, the Ukrainian parliament voted to expel President Viktor Yanukovych from office amid ongoing protests and violence. This decision marked a pivotal moment in the Ukrainian Revolution of 2014. source: bbc.com
- 23 Feb Ukrainian revolution of 2014: Yanukovych blocked from leaving: On February 23, 2014, former President Yanukovych was reportedly blocked from leaving Ukraine as protests intensified. This event was part of the broader Ukrainian revolution that sought to remove him from power. source: bbc.com
- 24 Feb 2014 Ukrainian revolution developments: On February 24, 2014, significant developments occurred in the Ukrainian revolution, including the formation of a new interim government. This marked a crucial step in the country's transition following the ousting of President Yanukovych. source: bbc.com
- 25 Feb Pro-Russian protesters block Crimean parliament: Pro-Russian protesters occupied the Crimean parliament in Simferopol, demanding greater autonomy from Ukraine. This event escalated tensions in the region and foreshadowed the subsequent annexation of Crimea by Russia. source: bbc.com
- 26 Feb 2014 Ukrainian revolution and Crimean crisis: The Ukrainian revolution led to significant political changes, including the ousting of President Yanukovych. This period was marked by protests, violence, and the eventual annexation of Crimea by Russia. source: bbc.com
- 01 Mar 2014 Venezuelan Protests: Ongoing protests in Venezuela escalated with 41 arrests and continued violent clashes between security forces and anti-government demonstrators, highlighting significant political tensions.
- 02 Mar Mass Protest Against Military Conscription in Israel: Over 250,000 Haredim (ultra-Orthodox Jews) protested against mandatory military conscription, highlighting ongoing social tensions in Israel.
- 06 Mar Pussy Riot Members Attacked: Two members of the protest band Pussy Riot suffer chemical burns and injuries after being attacked by a group at a McDonald's restaurant.
- 11 Mar Tragic Death During Turkish Protests: A 15-year-old Turkish boy died from head injuries sustained during anti-government protests, leading to further clashes between protesters and police, reflecting the political tensions in Turkey.
- 13 Mar Israeli Parliament Votes to End Ultra-Orthodox Military Service Exemption: Following earlier protests, the Israeli parliament voted 65 to 1 to pass legislation ending military service exemptions for ultra-Orthodox Jewish seminary students.
- 23 Mar Sunflower Student Movement in Taiwan: Protesters opposed to the Cross-Strait Trade Agreement occupied Taiwan's parliament, demanding a clause-by-clause review and seeking to expand their occupation to the nearby Executive Yuan.
- 25 Mar Ukrainian revolution: political turmoil and leadership changes: On March 25, 2014, Ukraine was experiencing significant political turmoil following the ousting of President Yanukovych. The situation was marked by leadership changes and ongoing protests. source: bbc.com
- 28 Mar South Korea seizes North Korean fishing vessel: On March 28, 2014, South Korean authorities seized a North Korean fishing vessel that had entered South Korean waters without permission. The vessel was detained off the coast of the eastern city of Sokcho, and its crew was taken into custody. This incident occurred amid heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula following North Korea's recent missile tests and was seen as a demonstration of South Korea's commitment to enforcing its maritime boundaries. source: reuters.com
- 06 Apr Pro-Russian protests in Donetsk, Ukraine: On April 6, 2014, pro-Russian activists seized government buildings in Donetsk, Ukraine, escalating tensions in the region. This event was part of a larger movement against the Ukrainian government following the annexation of Crimea by Russia. source: bbc.com
- 12 Apr Pro-Russian protests in Ukraine: On April 12, 2014, pro-Russian protests occurred in Kharkiv, Ukraine. A pro-Ukraine unity rally attracted over 5,000 people, while a pro-Russian rally at the Lenin statue drew 200 participants. Nearby, 70 men were arrested for possessing explosives and weapons. In Zaporizhzhia, self-defense units mobilized against pro-Russian forces, and a pro-Ukrainian unity rally of 200 was held in Mykolaiv. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 13 Apr Ukraine launches anti-terrorist operation in Slaviansk: On April 13, 2014, amid rising separatist tensions, Ukraine launched an anti-terrorist operation in Slaviansk, a city in eastern Ukraine. Pro-Ukraine rallies were held in Luhansk, Odesa, and Kryvyi Rih, with protesters in Luhansk forming a self-defense group to counter separatists. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 15 Apr Ukraine pro-Russian unrest escalates in eastern regions: On April 15, 2014, pro-Russian protests intensified in eastern Ukraine, particularly in cities like Donetsk and Luhansk. Demonstrators seized government buildings, demanding greater autonomy and closer ties to Russia, amid rising tensions following Crimea's annexation. source: bbc.com
- 29 Apr Pro-Russian militants seize Luhansk administration building: Pro-Russian militants seized the Luhansk regional administration building in eastern Ukraine, declaring the establishment of the 'Luhansk People's Republic.' This action was part of a series of pro-Russian uprisings in eastern Ukraine, leading to increased tensions and conflict in the region. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 02 May Clashes in Odesa, Ukraine: On May 2, 2014, violent clashes erupted in Odesa, Ukraine, between pro-unity and pro-Russian protesters. The violence resulted in at least 48 deaths, including 46 pro-Russian activists who died in a fire at the Trade Unions House. The incident remains one of the deadliest civil conflicts in the region since 1918. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 05 May Chibok Kidnapping Protest Leader Detained: On May 5, 2014, a leader of the protests demanding the return of the kidnapped Chibok schoolgirls in Nigeria was detained by authorities. The detention raised concerns about the government's response to the ongoing crisis and the treatment of activists advocating for the girls' release. source: bbc.com
- 09 May Putin's Crimean Victory Day Demonstration: On May 9, 2014, Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Crimea to oversee a naval parade in Sevastopol, marking Russia's first Victory Day celebrations in the region since its annexation. This visit followed a military parade in Moscow's Red Square. source: timesofisrael.com
- 13 May Vietnam Anti-China Protests: Tens of thousands of Vietnamese workers staged massive protests against China's provocative decision to place an oil rig in the South China Sea, an area also claimed by Vietnam. The demonstrations highlighted the escalating territorial tensions between the two countries.
- 14 May Anti-Chinese Protests in Vietnam: Tensions escalated in the South China Sea as protests against China's oil rig deployment in a disputed maritime area led to the burning of 15 foreign-owned factories, reflecting growing regional geopolitical tensions.
- 15 May Turkey Mine Disaster Protests: On May 15, 2014, widespread protests erupted in Turkey in response to the Soma mine disaster. Demonstrators demanded justice for the victims and called for stricter mining regulations to prevent future accidents. source: aljazeera.com
- 18 May Libyan political unrest: Haftar's attack on parliament: On May 18, 2014, General Khalifa Haftar launched an attack on the Libyan parliament, escalating the ongoing political unrest in the country. This event underscored the fragility of Libya's political situation post-revolution. source: reuters.com
- 20 May Thai political crisis escalates: On May 20, 2014, Thailand's political crisis intensified as the military declared martial law in an effort to restore order amid ongoing protests. This move was seen as a precursor to a potential coup, reflecting the deep divisions within Thai society. source: bbc.com
- 21 May Anti-China Protests in Vietnam: Violent anti-China demonstrations erupted in Vietnam over disputed South China Sea islands, resulting in six deaths. China responded by dispatching ships to evacuate 3,000 of its citizens, highlighting the complex territorial tensions in the region.
- 01 Jun Thai military deploys forces to suppress anti-coup protests in Bangkok: On June 1, 2014, Thailand's military government deployed thousands of troops and police to central Bangkok to prevent protests against its May 22 coup. Authorities anticipated gatherings at several locations, including areas with major shopping malls. The military had previously declared martial law and imposed a curfew to maintain order. source: cnbc.com
- 03 Jun Protests Banned in Abuja Over Kidnapped Girls: Abuja police prohibit protests in support of the 276 girls kidnapped by Boko Haram from northern Nigeria, further highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
- 11 Jun Egyptian Activist Sentenced: Alaa Abdel Fattah, a prominent activist, and 24 others were sentenced in absentia to 15 years in prison for their involvement in a November 2011 protest during the Egyptian Revolution.
- 28 Jun Protests Against Chinese Cross-Strait Negotiator: Violent protests erupted in Taiwan against China's top cross-strait negotiator, with demonstrators spraying paint and hurling symbolic 'ghost money', highlighting ongoing cross-strait tensions.
- 29 Jun Hong Kong political tensions escalate: On June 29, 2014, political tensions in Hong Kong intensified, with pro-democracy protests and government responses drawing international attention. source: bbc.com
- 02 Jul Palestinian teen murdered in Shuafat: On July 2, 2014, a 16-year-old Palestinian teenager was found murdered in the Shuafat neighborhood of East Jerusalem. The incident occurred amid heightened tensions between Israelis and Palestinians, following the kidnapping and murder of three Israeli teenagers in the West Bank. The murder of the Palestinian teen led to widespread protests and further escalated the already volatile situation in the region. source: bbc.com
- 03 Jul New Ukrainian Defense Minister Appointed: Valeriy Heletey was appointed as Ukraine's third Defense Minister, replacing Mykhailo Koloval following the 2014 Ukrainian Revolution.
- 11 Jul Kurdish MPs withdraw from Iraqi government: On July 11, 2014, Kurdish members of the Iraqi parliament withdrew from the government in protest of the central government's handling of the conflict with the Islamic State (ISIS). This move highlighted the deepening political crisis in Iraq and the challenges facing the central government. source: aljazeera.com
- 25 Jul Palestinian 'Day of Rage' Announced: Palestinian officials called for a 'Day of Rage' in the West Bank and within Israel in response to Israel's military operations in Gaza, with the Israeli Defense Force preparing for potential protests.
- 14 Aug DOJ investigates Michael Brown shooting: The U.S. Department of Justice announced an investigation into the shooting of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri. This investigation aimed to determine whether civil rights violations occurred during the incident that sparked widespread protests. source: justice.gov
- 15 Aug Ferguson protests: Highway patrol takes over: In response to ongoing protests in Ferguson, Missouri, the state highway patrol took over security duties from local police. This change aimed to de-escalate tensions and restore order in the community following the shooting of Michael Brown. source: nytimes.com
- 18 Aug Missouri Governor deploys National Guard to Ferguson: On August 18, 2014, Missouri Governor Jay Nixon deployed the National Guard to Ferguson in response to escalating protests and unrest following the shooting of Michael Brown. source: nytimes.com
- 19 Aug Pakistan Political Protests: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf announces it will resign its seats at the National Assembly to force Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's resignation. Imran Khan and Tahir ul Qadri led protest rallies that attracted tens of thousands to Islamabad, with 150 protesters arrested in Punjab province.
- 26 Sep Hong Kong Democracy Protests: At least 100 pro-democracy protesters enter the main government compound in Hong Kong, escalating tensions in the region's political landscape.
- 29 Sep Hong Kong Democracy Protests Intensify: Pro-democracy demonstrators in Hong Kong faced aggressive police response, with riot police deploying tear gas against thousands of protesters, escalating tensions in the city's political landscape.
- 07 Oct Hong Kong Umbrella Revolution continues: As of October 7, 2014, the Hong Kong Umbrella Revolution, a series of pro-democracy protests, was ongoing. Demonstrators occupied major roads and public spaces, demanding universal suffrage and political reforms. The movement was characterized by the use of umbrellas to shield against police pepper spray and tear gas. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 09 Oct 2014 Hong Kong protests continue: As of October 9, 2014, the 2014 Hong Kong protests, also known as the Umbrella Revolution, were ongoing. Demonstrators continued to occupy major roads and public spaces, demanding universal suffrage and political reforms. The movement faced challenges from police and pro-government groups. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 10 Oct Hong Kong Occupy Central Protests Escalate: Following the Hong Kong government's cancellation of planned talks, Occupy Central leaders called for a large-scale rally, intensifying the pro-democracy movement and challenging the existing political structure.
- 15 Oct Hong Kong protests: Road blockade confrontation: On October 15, 2014, Hong Kong police clashed with pro-democracy protesters who had blocked major roads in the city center, leading to multiple arrests and heightened tensions. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 16 Oct Hong Kong protests escalate with student-led demonstrations: On October 16, 2014, student-led demonstrations in Hong Kong escalated, with protesters occupying government buildings and calling for democratic reforms. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 30 Oct Burkinabe uprising leads to president's resignation: On October 30, 2014, widespread protests in Burkina Faso culminated in the resignation of President Blaise Compaoré after 27 years in power. The uprising was sparked by proposed constitutional changes that would allow him to extend his rule. The military subsequently took control of the government, leading to a transitional period. source: bbc.com
- 24 Nov Unrest in Ferguson following Michael Brown grand jury decision: On November 24, 2014, unrest erupted in Ferguson, Missouri, after a grand jury decided not to indict police officer Darren Wilson in the shooting death of unarmed teenager Michael Brown. The decision led to protests, demonstrations, and clashes between protesters and law enforcement, drawing national and international attention to issues of police conduct and racial relations in the United States. source: nytimes.com
- 25 Nov Continued unrest in Ferguson following grand jury decision: On November 25, 2014, unrest continued in Ferguson, Missouri, following the grand jury's decision not to indict Officer Darren Wilson in the shooting death of Michael Brown. Protests and demonstrations persisted, with law enforcement responding to maintain order, as the community grappled with the aftermath of the decision. source: nytimes.com
- 26 Nov Ferguson protests and National Day of Action: On November 26, 2014, protests continued in Ferguson, Missouri, following the shooting of Michael Brown. Activists organized a National Day of Action to demand justice and address issues of police violence and racial inequality. source: nytimes.com
- 27 Nov Hong Kong Protests Continue: The Hong Kong Police Force arrested eleven more protesters in a second round of violence following the removal of a camp in Mong Kok. Seven police officers were also taken into custody for allegedly assaulting a protester on October 15.
- 29 Nov Hong Kong pro-democracy protests: On November 29, 2014, pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong clashed with police in the Mong Kok district as they attempted to reclaim a former protest site, leading to renewed tensions and confrontations. source: bbc.com
- 11 Dec Hong Kong Protests Clearance: Following a recent court order, authorities began clearing the main protest site in Hong Kong's Admiralty area, marking a significant moment in the 2014 Hong Kong protests.
- 13 Dec Vietnam Intervenes in South China Sea Dispute: On December 13, 2014, Vietnam conducted a live-fire military exercise in the South China Sea, escalating tensions with China over territorial disputes in the region. The exercise was conducted near the Paracel Islands, which are claimed by both countries, and was seen as a demonstration of Vietnam's commitment to defending its territorial claims. source: reuters.com
What happened in 2014?
Discover what the world looked like in 2014: