In recent months, Nepal has witnessed an unexpected surge of youth-led demonstrations that have reshaped the national conversation. At the center of these movements is Generation Z—the young Nepalis born after the mid-1990s—who are refusing to remain silent about corruption, unemployment, and a political system they see as broken. Their protests are not just a spontaneous outburst; they are a reflection of deeper frustrations that have been building for years.
Rising Discontent Among the Young
Nepal is a young country in demographic terms. More than 40% of its population is under the age of 30, yet many young people feel they have little to no role in shaping the nation’s future. They have grown up in the aftermath of Nepal’s civil conflict, the abolition of the monarchy, and the promises of a federal democratic republic. What they see today, however, is an unfulfilled vision.
Unemployment is one of the sharpest triggers. Each year, thousands of Nepali graduates leave for jobs abroad, often in the Gulf or Malaysia, because domestic opportunities are scarce. For those who remain, underemployment and insecure work dominate daily life. Gen Z sees this as a betrayal of their potential, especially when leaders continue to assure them that “progress is around the corner.”
Corruption as a Common Enemy
One of the most unifying themes in the protests is anger against corruption. Nepalis have long complained about political leaders enriching themselves through state resources, but Gen Z has amplified this frustration with a louder voice. Unlike previous generations, this cohort is digitally native. They can track scandals, expose politicians online, and mobilize rapidly through social media platforms.
From irregularities in development projects to misuse of public funds, the stories of corruption circulate instantly among young people. They feel that the entrenched political class has turned governance into a personal enterprise. Their demonstrations, therefore, are not only against individual leaders but against the culture of impunity that has taken root.
The Power of Digital Mobilization
Another reason Gen Z protests are so visible is the way they are organized. This generation does not wait for political parties, unions, or traditional movements to lead the way. Instead, they use TikTok videos, Instagram stories, and Twitter threads to call for gatherings. Within hours, hundreds or even thousands can converge in public spaces.
This decentralized mobilization makes the protests harder to control or predict. The absence of a single leader also means the demonstrations belong collectively to the youth, not to a particular party agenda. It is a new form of people power, one that thrives on spontaneity and creativity.
A Struggle for Voice and Dignity
At a deeper level, Gen Z in Nepal is fighting for dignity. They are tired of being treated as a “lost generation” that must either migrate abroad or accept a stagnant political reality at home. By taking to the streets, they are demanding recognition—not just as workers or voters, but as citizens with agency.
For many, this is also about identity. Growing up with exposure to global movements, from climate strikes to campaigns for democracy, Nepali Gen Z has seen how young people elsewhere are making an impact. They want the same for themselves. Protesting is a way of saying, “We will not wait for others to fix the country; we will claim our place in shaping it.”
What Lies Ahead
The protests are still evolving, and it remains unclear whether they will lead to lasting reforms. Nepal’s political establishment has often survived waves of discontent by making promises and waiting for momentum to fade. But this time feels different. Gen Z is persistent, digitally empowered, and less willing to compromise.
If the government ignores these demands, it risks deepening the gap between citizens and institutions. If it listens, however, it could open the door to a new chapter of accountability and reform. The stakes are high, not only for the youth but for Nepal as a whole.
Final Take
Gen Z’s protests in Nepal are not just about temporary anger; they are about redefining the social contract. They represent a generation that refuses to remain silent about corruption, inequality, and the lack of opportunities. Whether on the streets of Kathmandu or across digital platforms, these young voices are shaping the future of Nepal. Their message is clear: they are ready to lead, and they expect the nation’s leaders to take them seriously.