Nepal Bans Major Social Media Platforms, Igniting Nationwide Protests

On September 4, 2025, the Nepalese government imposed a nationwide ban on 26 major social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X (formerly Twitter), citing their failure to register with the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology as mandated by new regulations. This action has ignited widespread protests across the country, predominantly led by Generation Z, culminating in violent clashes with security forces and multiple fatalities.

The government's directive required social media companies to register within seven days from August 28, 2025. While platforms like TikTok, Viber, and others complied, major platforms such as Facebook and YouTube did not, leading to their subsequent ban. Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung stated that the decision was necessary to combat the spread of misinformation, hate speech, and online fraud facilitated by fake accounts.

In response to the ban, thousands of young Nepalis took to the streets, viewing the action as an infringement on free speech and an attempt to suppress dissent. On September 8, 2025, protests escalated in Kathmandu, with demonstrators attempting to storm the federal parliament building. Security forces responded with tear gas, rubber bullets, and water cannons. According to reports, at least 19 people were killed and numerous others injured during the clashes. Authorities have since imposed a curfew in central areas of Kathmandu and deployed the army to restore order.

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) expressed serious concern over the government's decision, stating that the blanket ban undermines constitutional freedoms and calling for alternative regulatory measures. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) warned that the ban would seriously hinder journalists' work and people's access to news and information, urging the government to rescind the order and restore access to social media platforms.

Experts have warned that the ban could tarnish Nepal's international image, disrupt relations with global tech giants, and negatively impact the economy. The restrictions have created additional risks for the domestic economy, particularly for IT and digital service exporters. The ban has also devastated content creators, digital marketers, and startups who depend on online platforms for revenue. Many Nepali firms rely on automation, digital marketing, and business process outsourcing using social media platforms. Blocking access has a direct impact on operations and potential investment.

This is not the first time Nepal has imposed restrictions on social media. In November 2023, the government blocked TikTok, sparking widespread criticism. The ban was lifted in August 2024 after TikTok agreed to register locally. The current situation reflects a growing generational divide and widespread discontent among Nepali youth regarding governance and digital freedoms. The protests have been dubbed the "Gen Z protests," highlighting the active role of young people in advocating for their rights and freedoms.

As the situation continues to unfold, the Nepalese government faces mounting pressure to reconsider its stance on social media regulation. Balancing the need to combat misinformation and online crime with the preservation of digital freedoms and economic stability remains a critical challenge for the nation's leadership.