Don’t mess with the Gen Zs: Nepal’s Social Media Ban Gone Wrong

Silencing freedom of expression often does more than suppress voices, it ignites them. In today’s world, social media is not just entertainment; it is a loudhailer for change, a platform where hidden truths surface and collective anger finds direction. When governments attempt to shut down these digital spaces, they risk provoking those who wield the greatest influence online: ordinary citizens, especially the young, whose power lies not in offices but in their ability to rally, amplify, and demand change at scale. Was the ban truly a move to protect society, or a cover-up to silence expression?

Nepal’s government imposed a sweeping ban on 26 social media platforms, including Facebook and YouTube, after they “failed to register with authorities”. Officials claimed the ban was needed to curb “fake news, hate speech and online fraud”. But the move came as the “nepo kid” campaign went viral, exposing corruption and the lavish lifestyles of politicians’ children.

The ban backfired. Thousands of young people, many identified as Gen Z, flooded the streets, accusing the government of authoritarianism and corruption. Protesters stormed parliament in Kathmandu, some targeting Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s residence. Police responded with water cannons, batons, and rubber bullets. At least 19 people were killed and more than 100 injured. Facing outrage, the government lifted the ban after an emergency meeting, with ministers admitting it was to “address the demands of Gen Z.” However, because of the death and tragedies, violent protests worsens and the fight continues.

11 September 2025 · chgoh · Other Story