By Sunil Sapkota | September 8, 2025

In the heart of Nepal’s capital and across its provinces, a new generation is rising. Gen Z—bold, digitally fluent, and socially conscious—is leading one of the most significant youth-led protests in recent memory. Their demands for transparency, accountability, and freedom of expression have shaken the political establishment. But as the movement grows, so must its vision.

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🕯️ Honoring Courage

The tragic death of a young protester in Kathmandu, and the injuries sustained by dozens more in Jhapa and other cities, are painful reminders of the risks youth are taking to speak truth to power. Their courage deserves more than sympathy—it demands solidarity and strategy.

These protests are not just political—they are deeply personal. They reflect the frustration of a generation denied opportunities, silenced online, and forced to watch their country’s resources mismanaged.

🌱 Channeling Change Toward Climate Justice

Nepal is on the frontlines of the climate crisis. Melting glaciers, erratic monsoons, and rising temperatures threaten lives and livelihoods. Yet environmental degradation continues—often fueled by the same corruption Gen Z is protesting.

Gen Z can—and must—expand their movement to demand

    • Corruption enables deforestation, pollution, and unsafe infrastructure
    • Digital censorship silences climate activists and indigenous voices
    • Nepotism blocks youth from shaping environmental policy

This is the time to connect the dots

    • Transparent climate finance and green budgeting
    • Youth seats in environmental decision-making bodies
    • Protection of community-led conservation efforts
    • Climate education and eco-literacy in schools
    • Sustainable urban planning and disaster preparedness

Gen Z can—and must—be aware of

🎨 Creativity, Culture, and Climate

Already, the movement is rich with art, humor, and poetry. Imagine that same energy channeled into eco-comics, climate memes, and visual campaigns that expose environmental injustice and inspire action. Let protest placards say not just “End Nepotism” but “Protect Our Forests” and “Climate Justice Now.”

🧘‍♀️ Mindful Resistance, Holistic Vision

Some rallies begin with yoga and mindfulness—an approach that reflects Nepal’s spiritual heritage and Gen Z’s emotional intelligence. This isn’t just resistance. It’s resilience. It’s a call to build a future rooted in empathy, equity, and ecological balance.