Generation Z protests in Nepal over social media ban, corruption

Thousands of young Nepalis gathered in the capital city of Kathmandu on Monday, urging the government to lift its ban on social media platforms and to put an end to the widespread culture of corruption in the country.

Since Friday, several social media sites, including Facebook, YouTube, and X, have been inaccessible in Nepal due to the government's decision to block 26 unregistered platforms, which has left users feeling frustrated and bewildered.

Popular platforms like Instagram boast millions of users in Nepal who depend on them for entertainment, news, and business purposes.

Carrying national flags, Generation Z protesters commenced the demonstration with the national anthem before launching into chants opposing the social media restrictions and corruption.

“We were triggered by the social media ban, but that is not the only reason we are gathered here,” said student Yujan Rajbhandari, 24.

“We are protesting against corruption that has been institutionalised in Nepal.”

Another student, Ikshama Tumrok, 20, said she was protesting against the “authoritarian attitude” of the government.

“We want to see change. Others have endured this, but it has to end with our generation,” she told AFP.

Since the ban, videos contrasting the struggles of ordinary Nepalis with the children of politicians flaunting luxury goods and expensive vacations have gone viral on TikTok, which is still operating.

“There have been movements abroad against corruption, and they (the government) are afraid that might happen here as well,” said protester Bhumika Bharati.

The cabinet decided last month to give the affected companies seven days to register in Nepal, establish a point of contact, and designate a resident grievance handling officer and compliance officer.

The decision came after a Supreme Court order in September last year.

In a statement on Sunday, the government said it respected freedom of thought and expression and was committed to “creating an environment for their protection and unfettered use”.

Nepal has restricted access to popular online platforms in the past.

In July, the government restricted access to the Telegram messaging application, citing an increase in online fraud and money laundering.

In August of the previous year, it removed a nine-month prohibition on TikTok after the platform consented to adhere to Nepali regulations.