In Nepal, a youth-led uprising has gripped the nation, with Gen Z protesters flooding the streets of Kathmandu and other cities to demand an end to rampant corruption, economic hardship, and government overreach. The spark? A controversial decision to block access to social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, seen as a desperate attempt to silence dissent amid rising inflation and unemployment rates exceeding 20% for young people. The ban, aimed at curbing “misinformation,” backfired spectacularly, uniting tech-savvy Gen Z in widespread outrage.

The government quickly reversed the social media shutdown, but the damage was done. Protests escalated into chaos, with clashes between demonstrators and security forces leaving at least 20 dead and hundreds injured over the past three weeks. Police used tear gas, rubber bullets, and live ammunition to disperse crowds, drawing condemnation from human rights groups and international observers. Demands have broadened to include the resignation of Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, free elections, and economic reforms to address youth unemployment and soaring prices for essentials like rice and fuel.