Nepal has been thrown into political and social chaos after a government ban on major social media platforms ignited a nationwide uprising, now dubbed the “Gen Z Protests.”
The decision to block Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, WhatsApp, and X (formerly Twitter) triggered an explosion of anger among young Nepalis who rely heavily on digital platforms for communication, activism, and daily life. What began as street demonstrations quickly escalated into violent clashes, leaving at least 19 people dead and hundreds injured.
Protesters have torched government buildings, including the landmark parliament complex, and stormed the offices of top political leaders. In response, the Army has taken control of key installations, imposed round-the-clock curfews, and deployed heavily armed troops across the capital to restore order.
The unrest forced Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli to resign, but the streets remain tense, with demonstrators vowing not to back down until deeper political reforms are achieved.
“This is not just about social media. This is about corruption, inequality, and a system that ignores our future,” said one young protester in Kathmandu.
Analysts say the ban merely lit the fuse of long-brewing frustrations. For years, Nepal’s youth have grappled with soaring unemployment, lack of opportunities, and entrenched corruption among the political elite. Many see the protests as the country’s biggest generational revolt since the end of the monarchy in 2008.
Despite the chaos, Nepal’s economy has shown flashes of resilience. The stock market rose sharply this month, remittances are at record highs, and the government is preparing for a major power summit aimed at transforming the country into an energy hub. Yet, those gains are overshadowed by growing fears of instability and a leadership vacuum.
Meanwhile, environmental risks such as glacial floods and worsening air pollution continue to loom, underscoring the multiple crises facing the Himalayan nation.
For now, the message from Nepal’s Gen Z is clear: the protests may have started with a ban, but they are about much more. The fight, they say, is for dignity, fairness, and a future that works for everyone.
