The Morning Edition Why Gen-Z fury led to destruction in Nepal
Sep 16, 2025
Renee Jeffery, an International Relations Professor at Griffith University, discusses the violent protests in Nepal led by Gen Z activists. These uprisings were sparked by widespread anger at the privileges of the elite and a government ban on social media. The turmoil resulted in the resignation of the Prime Minister and significant political shifts. Jeffery explores the youth's battle against systemic corruption and their calls for accountability, showcasing a potential new era of leadership and hope for reform in Nepal's political landscape.
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Widespread Destruction In Kathmandu
- Protesters caused extensive damage including fires at the Prime Minister's office, parliament, major party HQ and newspapers.
- Many public buildings, leaders' homes and businesses were burnt or looted during the unrest.
Social Media Ban Sparked Protests
- The immediate trigger was a government ban on major social media platforms tied to tax and registration disputes.
- Young Nepalis saw the ban as an attempt to silence exposure of corruption and nepotism via social media.
Visible Inequality Fueled Outrage
- Young people were angered by displays of extravagant wealth online while average annual income is about $1,400.
- Social posts showing luxury goods became a catalyst for an online anti-corruption campaign.