GEN Z AND NEPAL
Gen Z protests in Nepal forced democratic changes in September 2025, leading to the resignation of Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli, the dissolving of Parliament, and the appointment of an interim government tasked with organizing new elections by March 2026.
Why Did Gen Z Protest?
- Many young Nepalis were frustrated by poor job opportunities, widespread corruption, and government inaction.
- The government’s ban on 26 social media platforms triggered sharp opposition, as youth relied on these for communication and activism.
- Unlike past protests, Gen Z’s movement was decentralized, mobilized via platforms like Instagram and Discord rather than established political parties.
How Were These Protests Different?
- Gen Z activists rejected traditional party affiliations and focused on clear, short-term goals—such as removing the aging political leadership and demanding a technocratic interim government.
- The protests evolved from peaceful gatherings to violence after clashes with police, culminating in attacks on government buildings and the burning of politicians’ homes.
What Were the Immediate Outcomes?
- Prime Minister Oli resigned after three days of escalating unrest.
- The interim government, led by former Supreme Court Chief Justice Sushila Karki, was formed to oversee elections by March 2026.
- Parliament was dissolved under constitutional provisions citing “extraordinary circumstances”. .
What Are the Key Challenges Ahead?
- The events exposed major flaws in Nepal’s 2015 Constitution, including its unclear provisions on government dissolution and executive power.
- There are concerns about future political instability, sustained youth disillusionment, and whether a new generation of leaders can deliver consistent reforms.
Gen Z protesters in Nepal have shown the powerful impact of tech-savvy, leaderless activism, forcing a reset in the country's political landscape and demanding accountability from entrenched power structures.
Source The hindu