The Rise of Gen Z Activism in Nepal
Nepal is witnessing a new wave of activism driven by the Gen Z generation. This movement has emerged in response to a political vacuum created by the fall of established leaders and parties that have lost public trust. As a result, many individuals are stepping forward to fill this gap, taking on active roles in politics by forming new parties, joining existing ones, or running as independent candidates.
Seventeen new political parties, many led by young Gen Z members, have already submitted applications for recognition with the Election Commission. More are expected as the election approaches. This surge has sparked a new set of strategies among political groups, including merging with other parties, bringing in fresh faces, or trying to co-opt Gen Z leaders.
The Nepali constitution guarantees every citizen the right to participate in politics and contest elections. For some, this choice is deeply personal, rooted in their experiences and motivations. If one feels called to politics, no external force should deter them from pursuing their path.
However, many Gen Z members recognize the importance of this moment and want to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development. They understand that joining politics may not be the most effective way to make an impact.
Avoiding the Political Pitfall
I urge Gen Z to resist the temptation to become accidental politicians. Instead, they can be more impactful as civil society changemakers. The current political environment in Nepal is like a polluted pond, where even the healthiest fish would struggle to survive. Politicians cannot clean the system—they only navigate within it.
The real power to transform the corrupt political system lies with civil society. This is where Gen Z should focus their efforts, not as political leaders but as engaged citizens driving change.
In 2020, I wrote about the need to “change Nepal without leaders.” At that time, it was clear that leadership had failed to provide solutions, leading to disillusionment and conflict. Five years later, the Gen Z movement has shown that lasting change can come from ordinary citizens working together, not from formal authority.
Gen Z leaders must not risk the purity of their movement by entering politics. They should remain true to their roots as civil society activists.
Prioritizing Civil Society Over Politics
In a recent article, I explored why civil society activism is often a better choice than politics. Examples like Rabindra Mishra and Swarnim Wagle show how promising changemakers can become mere tools for political parties.
We cannot afford to lose our best minds to the lure of politics. Birendra Bahadur Basnet, for instance, has joined forces with Dinesh Prasai to form the Gatishil Loktantrik Party. While he could make a fine political leader, his role as the Executive Chairperson of Buddha Air is crucial for Nepal’s economy and millions of people who travel abroad for work.
The opportunity cost of Basnet in politics is high. His contributions to Buddha Air could generate jobs, income, and economic growth for the country.
Focusing on Long-Term Progress
The future of Nepal depends on its people, especially Gen Z, building successful careers and families. As productive members of society, they can influence political leaders through civil society engagement.
Progress does not rely on a single leader but on diverse ideas and solutions implemented by many. It occurs when artists, journalists, and intellectuals push boundaries, not when they become political ideologues.
Gen Z must reflect on these lessons and assess whether political leaders would have been more impactful as civil society changemakers.
Embracing New Pathways
Rejecting the political itch does not mean avoiding activism. There are numerous avenues for engagement, from grassroots efforts to national pressure groups. Each person can find methods that suit their abilities and interests.
The unique aspect of the Gen Z movement was its lack of a leader, using digital platforms to organize and unite around shared frustrations rather than ideology. It would be a shame if they reverted to traditional political models.
This is a time for bold new beginnings. Recognizing that civil society activism can drive change is one such idea. After all, you have already proven it.