Final answer:
The main short-term impact of the walkouts was the disruption of normal operations and the attention it brought to the issues at hand.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main short-term impact of the walkouts was the disruption of normal operations and the attention it brought to the issues at hand. Walkouts often result in the closure of schools or workplaces, which can cause inconvenience and financial losses. Additionally, the walkouts gained media coverage and public awareness, which put pressure on the authorities to address the concerns of the protesters.