Nepal in Chaos

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by Christopher Ryan Maboloc, PhD 

The Nepalese Government banned social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram in the country, causing anger among GenZs who are considered as digital natives. The youth have used social media to express their sentiments against the state. The government wants to silence online dissent. However, social media is also part of the daily life of the youth since many use these platforms to communicate to each other, do business, or maintain contact with their relatives abroad. 

Banning the use of social media platforms made the youth feel that they have been deprived of their rights. The violent protests started on September 4, 2025. Some youth protesters have stormed and burned the Parliament and the homes of some government officials despite the presence of government security forces. Twenty-two people died on the first day of protest, including a 12 year old. The protests have forced the prime minister to step down. But what was really the root cause of the violent and radical action in Nepal? 

1. Endemic corruption - Corruption in Napal is systemic. One of the biggest scandals is the $71-million anomaly in the construction of a new airport terminal. The youth felt that the inequality in the country is directly linked to the practices of corrupt politicians and other public officials. 

2. Political instability - Nepal has changed its government 17 times in the last 14 years. Since the abolition of the monarchy, the government has been ruled and controlled by the elite in the country. After the protests, the military is in control of the country. Its political future remains uncertain. 

3. Unemployment - Tens of thousands of Nepalese men and women migrate abroad each year in search of jobs. Thousands are also employed in China as temporary or contractual workers. Students feel that their country doesn't care about its youth for not providing jobs and other opportunities. 

4. Lavish lifestyle of politicians - Called nepo babies, children of rich politicians who flaunt their lavish lifestyles online contributed to the anger of the protesters. Children of rich government officials spend money like that royalty while ordinary and poor Nepalese citizens do not have access to basic services. 

5. Political elitism - Nepal does not have a working or functional democracy. Rich and influential families take turns in controlling the government. Indeed, there are obvious similarities but whether what happened im Nepal can also happen here is a big question that has no definite answer. For now.



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