Nepal's Gen Z Journalists Lead Fiery Protests Against Social Media Ban, Demanding Unfettered Freedom of Expression

A palpable wave of defiance is sweeping across Nepal as journalists, especially the tech-savvy and vocal Gen Z, rise in passionate protest against the government's contentious decision to ban social media platforms. What began as a governmental directive citing concerns over "misuse" and "negative impact" has swiftly escalated into a nationwide debate on fundamental freedoms, with the media fraternity positioning itself firmly on the frontline in the battle for unrestricted expression.

The spark for this widespread agitation was the Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' government's move to prohibit TikTok, swiftly followed by broader discussions and potential regulations on other social media giants.

The official stance points to the platforms' alleged contribution to societal discord, the spread of misinformation, and the outflow of significant economic resources from the country. However, for a generation that has grown up with social media as an indispensable tool for communication, news dissemination, and advocacy, these justifications ring hollow, sounding more like thinly veiled attempts at censorship.

Journalists, traditionally the vanguards of truth and freedom, view this directive as a direct assault on the principles of press freedom and the constitutional right to freedom of expression.

They argue that rather than imposing blanket bans, the government should focus on developing robust regulatory frameworks, promoting digital literacy, and holding platforms accountable for content, without stifling legitimate discourse. The sentiment among the protesting journalists is clear: social media is not merely a source of entertainment but a vital space for public discourse, accountability, and the amplification of diverse voices, particularly those often marginalized in mainstream media.

Led by the National Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) and supported by numerous media organizations and civil society groups, the protests have seen journalists taking to the streets, holding placards, and chanting slogans demanding the immediate withdrawal of the ban.

They stress that such restrictive measures undermine democratic values and set a dangerous precedent for future curtailments of civic liberties. The younger generation of journalists, in particular, feels a deep connection to these platforms, recognizing their power to bypass traditional gatekeepers and directly engage with audiences, making the ban a personal as well as professional affront.

The ongoing struggle in Nepal is more than just about a social media ban; it's a critical litmus test for the state of democratic freedoms in the country.

As journalists continue to stand their ground, their unwavering demand for unfettered freedom of expression serves as a potent reminder that a free press and an open digital landscape are not luxuries, but cornerstones of a truly democratic society. The world watches keenly as Nepal grapples with the delicate balance between regulation and fundamental rights in the digital age.