Nepal is protesting primarily due to a government ban on social media platforms combined with long-standing issues of corruption, bad governance, and economic hardship. The protests, led largely by Generation Z youth, erupted after the government banned 26 social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and YouTube. This ban triggered widespread anger as it disrupted education, communication, and the ability to expose government corruption, particularly the extravagant lifestyles of politicians' children, known as "Nepo Kids." The movement expresses frustration over nepotism, lack of economic opportunities, and calls for greater transparency and accountability from political leaders. The unrest escalated into violence with clashes between protesters and security forces, leading to deaths, injuries, and arson attacks on government buildings. In response, the prime minister resigned amid the turmoil.
Key Protest Drivers
- Government ban on social media platforms, seen as suppressing free speech and limiting access to education and connection.
- Deep-rooted corruption and nepotism among Nepal's political elite.
- Economic dissatisfaction, especially high youth unemployment over 20%.
- The viral "Nepo Kids" trend highlighting inequality and privilege of politicians' families.
- Demands for lifting the ban, resignation of corrupt leaders, and political reform.
Timeline and Impact
- Protests began in early September 2025, initially peaceful, then escalating after police used tear gas, water cannons, rubber bullets, and live ammunition.
- Government institutions including parliament and the Supreme Court were vandalized and set on fire.
- At least 51 people died, hundreds injured, and the prime minister resigned.
- The military was deployed, and curfews were imposed in major cities including Kathmandu.
These protests signify the largest civil unrest in Nepal in decades, with the youth demanding systemic change beyond just the immediate social media ban.
