Nepal at crossroads as Gen Z demands changeーNHK WORLD-JAPAN NEWS

Key Concepts

• Gen Z Political Engagement: The increasing political awareness and potential impact of Nepal’s Generation Z voters.
• Anti-Corruption Sentiment: Widespread dissatisfaction with corruption and its role in economic inequality.
• Social Media Restrictions & Protests: The government’s attempt to control information via social media restrictions and the resulting public backlash.
• Youth-Led Movements: Emerging groups utilizing technology and direct political participation to advocate for change.
• Political Reform Demands: Specific calls for a stable, corruption-free government, job creation, and social justice.

Political Upheaval and Gen Z’s Rising Influence in Nepal

Nepal is approaching a pivotal general election in March, with Generation Z poised to be a decisive voting bloc. This election follows significant unrest in the preceding year, fueled by widespread protests against corruption and economic inequality, resulting in dozens of fatalities and the collapse of the existing government. The protests highlight a deep-seated frustration among young Nepalis with the status quo.

Social Media Restrictions and the September Protests

In September, the Nepalese government enacted a policy restricting access to social media platforms, ostensibly to combat the spread of “fake news.” This action immediately triggered widespread protests, particularly among young people. Demonstrations escalated, leading to the arson of parliamentary buildings and clashes with security forces. Tragically, 76 individuals, predominantly young protestors, lost their lives during these confrontations. The events underscore the importance of digital access and freedom of expression to Nepal’s youth.

Remembering the Fallen and Demanding Change

Four months after the protests, young artists are actively memorializing those who died, emphasizing the need for remembrance and accountability. Praasha, a 28-year-old protestor shot in the leg during the demonstrations, articulates the core demands of the youth: “We have been calling for a stable government free from corruption. We also want enough job opportunities here so we don't have to go abroad to work. We'll continue fighting.” This sentiment reflects a broader desire for economic opportunity and political stability within Nepal. A common opinion among the youth is that “They will not just vote again all corrupted people. That’s my opinion. The leader would keep our trust and do what the country deserves.”

Utilizing Technology for Political Engagement

New movements, spearheaded by young leaders, are actively working to increase Gen Z participation in the political process. One group is leveraging technology to conduct surveys, gathering youth opinions on crucial issues like national budget allocation and broader economic concerns. The stated goal is to present these findings to policymakers for consideration in official policy-making. As one representative stated, “We can come to a digital consensus on multiple matters that concerns the youth, the politics, economy or other matters, you know, even the smallest of the matters that concerns the ward or the biggest of the matter that concerns the whole country as well.” This demonstrates a proactive approach to influencing policy through data-driven advocacy.

Direct Political Participation and Representation

Another group has joined a newly formed political party specifically for the upcoming election, focusing on the eradication of corruption and inequality. Jasi Batarai, a 28-year-old lawyer, is running as a candidate and intends to champion issues of discrimination based on sexual orientation and the protection of ethnic minority rights if elected. She emphasizes the value of intergenerational collaboration: “Now that yesterday the when younger people um bring their experiences and where older people from their lived experiences try and imagine to create a better Nepal then the Zenzi movement will actually come to materialize where.”

Potential Regional Impact and Conclusion

The frustration of Nepal’s young population with the current political landscape presents a significant opportunity for national transformation. NHK World’s Kumandu notes that the success of this movement could potentially inspire similar Gen Z activism in other Asian nations. The upcoming election represents a critical juncture for Nepal, with the potential to reshape the nation’s political and economic future based on the demands and aspirations of its youth.