The September 2025 Gen Z protests in Nepal were a youth-led movement against deep-rooted corruption, political favoritism, aging political leadership, and economic inequality. Led mainly by young people between 13 to 28 years, the protests erupted from frustration over politicians’ children exhibiting luxury lifestyles on social media, high youth unemployment, and a political system where the same leaders kept rotating power without completing full terms or bringing real change. The government’s ban on 26 social media platforms on September 4 was the breaking point that ignited the movement. Various groups came together, all pushing for change while concerned about potential violence. The protests, which took place on 8-9 September, drew comparisons to recent youth movements in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia. What started as peaceful demonstrations quickly intensified, ultimately forcing the Prime Minister to resign on the second day.
Authors:
Prakash Bhattarai
Samiksha Neupane
Anish Khatri