Overview

• A new CNN explainer highlights how the pirate skull-and-straw-hat is being hoisted from Nepal to Indonesia as a visible sign of dissent.
• Images circulating online show the flag at demonstrations in Nepal, Indonesia, France and Peru, reinforcing its rapid transnational spread.
• In Indonesia, the banner surfaced over the summer as a counter-message to President Prabowo Subianto’s calls to display the national flag.
• Aftermath reports deadly clashes and claims of political upheaval in Nepal tied to the protests, assertions that remain uncorroborated by major outlets.
• Analysts and fans cited in coverage say the symbol’s appeal stems from One Piece’s narrative of resisting corrupt authority, helping it travel across borders via social media.