International: The Gen-G youth rebellion in Nepal has now become an issue at the international level. This is particularly important for India, as it is happening in our neighbourhood and is affecting our military and political landscape. For some time now, there has been growing resentment among the youth on digital media regarding corruption, land scams and nepotism. The cases of corruption that were being exposed publicly on the internet media were embarrassing for the KP Oli government.

Nepal Crisis Fueled By Corruption

Everything from land scams to bribery was painting a picture of a system that can go to any extent to remain in power. This made the youth realize that the people sitting at the top of power are only for the benefit of themselves and their families, not for the common youth. Amidst all this, the Nepal government banned 26 major digital media platforms like Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. T

his ban, as per the understanding of the protesters, was basically to suppress their voice. This further increased the protests and turned violent. Eventually the Nepal government fell. This is almost like a repeat of the events of Bangladesh. Nepal is now in a state of deep crisis.

Youth Movements Challenge Global Systems

The developments in Nepal seem to be part of a larger global shift in which the younger generation is openly standing up against the system. In 2019, there was a protest in Hong Kong, which was initially against a Chinese law, but later it turned into a fight to save democratic freedom there. This movement of Hong Kong youth against the growing influence of China became famous all over the world.

Asian Protests Shake Regional Stability

Protests are currently taking place in Indonesia against economic issues and special benefits to elected members. Recently, protests were also held in the Philippines against corruption in relief distribution after natural disasters. Last year, the Bangladesh government also suddenly fell due to a nationwide protest. The same has happened in Sri Lanka. These protests that are destabilizing governments are happening in countries around India. As a democratic nation, we need to understand these and ensure that such incidents do not affect us.

Digital Media Empowers Young Voices

Digital media is an important platform for youth across the world. If governments try to silence the youth, this trend can lead to more reactions. Governments must understand the importance of transparency and accountability. The main reason for the Nepal movement was the corruption and nepotism that flourished in the corridors of power.

Youth across the world are now eager to know about the performance of their elected and public officials. If they are not provided with true facts and figures, they will not hesitate to form their own interpretation from whatever source they have.

Misinformation Demands Government Transparency

Often these sources can be based on digital media—where misinformation can spread easily. Governments therefore need to be proactively transparent about their functioning and be prepared to act quickly on public feedback and complaints. The power of youth cannot be underestimated. Government policies must therefore be youth-centric and benefit the youth. These include focusing on education, employment, justice and better living standards.

Merit System Over Nepotism Needed

They will no longer accept nepotism. Therefore, a merit-based system is necessary. Youth need to be seen not just as agitators but also as a conscious class. If they are neglected, they will come out on the streets and demand change. It is also important that governments understand the impact of digital media and technology.

In Nepal, it has been shown that today's young generation uses technology to raise their voice. This can be a challenge for governments, but at the same time it is also an opportunity to use technology in the right way, so that there is a dialogue between the public and the government. The movement in Nepal is just one example.

Dynamic Democracies Require Youth Engagement

Today democracy is extremely dynamic. News travels fast. In such a situation, policies need to be made and changed according to the need of the hour. There should be regular engagement with the youth.

Nations should keep in mind that any kind of public grievance handled in the wrong way can turn into large-scale mass movements. It can also provide an opportunity to the opposing countries to intervene and promote unrest. External powers are always on the lookout to take advantage of the internal conflict of a country.