Nepal Gen Z Protests 2025: Youth Lead Demand for Change Amid Social Media Ban and Corruption
Nepal has witnessed massive Gen Z protests in 2025, driven by the younger generation’s outrage against government corruption, nepotism, and the controversial ban on social media platforms. This youth-led movement reflects broader demands for political accountability and freedom of expression in the country.
What Sparked the Gen Z Protests in Nepal?
The immediate cause was the government’s ban on 26 major social media platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, YouTube, and Twitter (known locally as X), which began on September 4, 2025. The ban was imposed after these platforms refused to register under new government regulations aimed at monitoring online content.
However, underlying the protests is long-standing frustration over corruption in Nepal’s political system. The younger population, especially students and Gen Z, took to the streets against unfair governance, lack of transparency, and nepotistic practices that hinder economic and social progress.
Impact and Government Response
Protests turned violent with clashes between demonstrators and police. Security forces used tear gas, rubber bullets, and even live ammunition, resulting in the tragic death of at least 19 protesters and injuries to hundreds more. Several government offices and political leaders’ residences were attacked and vandalized, including the Prime Minister’s official residence.
In the wake of mounting unrest, the government rescinded the social media ban and saw key resignations, including the Home Minister and eventually Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli stepping down amid pressures to restore public trust.
Why the Gen Z Movement Matters for Nepal and the Region
This protest movement, extensively covered by international media like Al Jazeera, Reuters, and CNN, spotlights the power of youth activism in South Asia. The call is clear: Nepal’s future depends on eradicating corruption and ensuring digital freedoms.
The movement also resonates globally as governments grapple with controlling digital expression, pointing to a larger debate on governance, rights, and technology.
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