Nepali and Malagasy youth lead the way of instituting global political change
2025 has been a year dominated by Gen-Z political movements. Around the world, young people are looking to hold corruption accountable and create lasting change by protesting, revolting, and running for political office. Recent cases of this new phenomenon include those in Nepal and Madagascar. There, a social-media centered generation, put pressure on those who have held office for decades.
In September, Nepali youth revolted in a week-long movement that ended with a new government and dozens dead. Protests began after citizens were frustrated over a weak economy and corrupt national government officials. Alongside high unemployment, high poverty, and a weak gross domestic product (GDP), federal and provincial government officials were accused of nepotism after images of their children and family members flaunting gifts and designer brands circulated online. These socio-economic disparities caused immense frustration, especially amongst young civilians. Finally, on Sept. 4, platforms like Instagram, YouTube, X, Facebook, and 22 others were banned in Nepal in what was viewed as an attempt to suppress voices critical of the government.
Nepali demonstrations were largely done by Gen-Z leaders. Youth-led protests began on Sept. 8 after organization through TikTok and VPNs. Although protests were initially peaceful, barricades were broken down, the Parliament and the prime minister’s residence were set on fire, and ministers’ homes were vandalized. Although there was a lift on the social media ban and a curfew, it was too late. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli had fled the capital, and the youth looked to instate an interim prime minister. By Sept. 10, Sushila Karki was elected on Discord, a popular communications website for gaming, after debates and recommendations for the nation’s future.
Social media and technologically savvy efforts were shown to be the key factors used by youth in Nepal. Bluetooth connections also proved to allow for communication between users, as it does not need widespread internet access to organize thousands of people. Over the course of five days, Nepali youth took to the streets not just demanding change, but using their own hands and efforts to demand it.
Youth in Madagascar had a similar movement. On Oct. 17, Colonel Michael Randrianirina was sworn in as the newest President of Madagascar after massive protests that were inspired by Nepali youth. The movement began after two politicians from the capital, Antananarivo, were arrested in their objections against water and electricity outages. Protestors blamed the government and Jirana, a state-owned company that provides these services, as issues that often left people without water or power for hours or days. Currently, just one-third of Madagascar’s 30 million people have access to electricity, while 75 per cent are below the poverty line.
On Sept. 25, protests began after coordination from a group called “Gen Z Madagascar.” Labour groups, the leader of the opposition, and tens of thousands of young people all demanded change in government, specifically for President Andy Rajoelina to step down. After a curfew was instituted that night, the protests grew and became stronger, rejecting Rajoelina’s attempts to meet with protestors. After deaths and crackdowns from security forces, Randrianirina led a military movement on Oct. 11 as he announced they would defy the government’s orders to stop the protests. Once Rajoelina released a video saying he fled the nation, the military took over the government, and Randrianirina became the new president of Madagascar. However, the consequences of this movement and looting left 22 dead and 100 injured.
Both Nepal and Madagascar’s populations are young with Nepal’s median age at 25 and Madagascar’s at 19. Organization and ensuing change would not have been possible without social media outreach. A combination of young ages and technological usage shows that youth were determined to institute change quickly.
One Response
Thank you.
There is hope!