Nepal's Social Media Ban: A Catastrophe for Freedom and Economy

NEPAL'S SOCIAL MEDIA BAN: A DISASTER FOR FREEDOM AND ECONOMY!

YOU NEED TO KNOW THIS!

Nineteen people were killed and over 100 injured, including four working journalists, during the mass demonstrations after police used live ammunition, water cannons, tear gas, and rubber bullets to disperse crowds. Kantipur TV journalist Shyam Shrestha, Naya Patrika Daily reporter Dipendra Dhungana, and Nepal Press journalist Umesh Karki were all hit by rubber bullets fired by police while covering the protests in Kathmandu, with independent journalist Shambhu Dangal also injured.

THIS IS A TRAGEDY!

Tens of thousands of young people, primarily students, flooded the streets of Kathmandu on September 8 in response to the government’s abrupt ban on 26 major social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Reddit and Signal, with TikTok and Viber among those left accessible. The ban came after an August 17 Supreme Court order directed Nepal’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology to require social media companies to formally register with the ministry by September 3, citing threats of misinformation, obstruction of judicial proceedings, and erosion of public trust in the courts. When all but five failed to do so, the government deactivated the platforms on September 4.

THE PROTESTS WERE FUELED BY ANGER AND FRUSTRATION!

The protests, which followed ongoing public criticism of institutionalised political corruption and the government’s failure to deliver progress on economic issues, climaxed as thousands of demonstrators attempted to storm Nepal’s parliament, prompting police to open fire indiscriminately. The country’s army was deployed and a curfew imposed around the prime minister’s residence and the government precinct. The government lifted the social media ban the same evening, though an indefinite restriction on rallies and mass gatherings remains in place in Kathmandu.

HUMAN RIGHTS ORGANIZATIONS CONDEMN THE BAN!

Human rights organisations condemned the four-day shutdown as a violation of freedom of expression. In a statement released on May 1, a coalition of 31 Nepal-based civil society organisations and media groups stated that the registration directive “lacks legal clarity” and is deemed “imbalanced, impractical, and premature.” The ban is part of a broader clampdown on digital media in Nepal, following the controversial ‘Social Media Bill’ introduced in February 2025, which the IFJ and its affiliates urged the government to withdraw, warning it will undermine press freedom and free expression. Nepal also banned TikTok in November 2023, citing alleged ‘disruption to social harmony,’ according to the IFJ’s South Asia Press Freedom Report.

THE FEDERATION OF NEPALESE JOURNALISTS (FNJ) SAYS: “THE FNJ CONDEMNS INCIDENTS OF POLICE OPPRESSION, DEMANDS PROPER COMPENSATION TO THE FAMILIES OF THE DECEASED, AND ACTION AGAINST THOSE INVOLVED IN THE OPPRESSION. WE DEMAND THE GOVERNMENT RESPECT FREEDOM OF THE PRESS AND EXPRESSION, AND REFRAINS FROM RESPONDING WITH VIOLENCE OR BY RESTRICTING ACCESS TO SOCIAL NETWORKS.”

THE NEPAL PRESS UNION (NPU) SAYS: “THE NPU STRONGLY CONDEMNS AND DENOUNCES THE POLICE’S VIOLENT SUPPRESSION OF PEACEFUL PROTESTERS AND THE KILLING OF CITIZENS. THE UNION CALLS FOR ADDRESSING THE CONCERNS OF THE YOUTH BY ENSURING THEIR RIGHT TO PEACEFUL PROTEST, CONDUCTING AN INVESTIGATION INTO THE INCIDENTS, AND TAKING ACTION AGAINST THOSE RESPONSIBLE.”

THE INTERNATIONAL FEDERATION OF JOURNALISTS (IFJ) SAYS: “THE IFJ CONDEMNS THE HIGHLY CONCERNING VIOLENCE AND THREATS AGAINST JOURNALISTS AMID KATHMANDU’S DEADLY PROTESTS AND CALLS ON AUTHORITIES TO TAKE IMMEDIATE MEASURES TO GUARANTEE ACCOUNTABILITY AND THE SAFETY OF ALL MEDIA WORKERS AND CIVILIANS. THE SHUTDOWN OF SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS UNDER VAGUE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS IS A SEVERE THREAT TO PRESS FREEDOM AND THE RIGHT TO INFORMATION, AND THE OLI ADMINISTRATION MUST ENSURE ACCESS REMAINS PERMANENTLY REINSTATED.”

THIS IS A CALL TO ACTION!

The government's clampdown on digital media and freedom of expression in Nepal has the potential to have significant long-term effects on the country's political landscape and public trust in institutions. Here are some key points to consider:

1. EROSION OF PUBLIC TRUST: The government's actions, such as the social media ban and the proposed social media bill, have been met with widespread outrage and protests. This has led to a loss of public trust in the government and its institutions. For example, the protests that erupted in response to the social media ban were fueled by growing frustration and dissatisfaction against the political parties, who are blamed for corruption. This erosion of trust could have long-term implications for the stability and legitimacy of the government.

2. INCREASED POLITICAL INSTABILITY: The government's clampdown on digital media and freedom of expression has led to increased political instability. The protests that erupted in response to the social media ban were violent and resulted in the deaths of at least 19 people. This has led to a situation where the government is under pressure to address the demands of the protesters, which could lead to further political instability. For example, the resignation of Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli following the protests is a clear indication of the political instability that has been caused by the government's actions.

3. SUPPRESSION OF FREE SPEECH: The government's clampdown on digital media and freedom of expression has led to the suppression of free speech. This could have long-term implications for the country's democratic institutions and the ability of citizens to express their opinions and hold the government accountable. For example, the proposed social media bill includes provisions for imprisonment and fines for posts "deemed against national sovereignty or interest." This could lead to a situation where citizens are afraid to express their opinions, leading to a suppression of free speech.

4. INTERNATIONAL CONDEMNATION: The government's clampdown on digital media and freedom of expression has led to international condemnation. This could have long-term implications for the country's international relations and its ability to attract foreign investment. For example, international organizations, including the United Nations and human rights groups such as Amnesty International, had earlier raised concerns about the ban and the government's response to the protests. This could lead to a situation where the country is isolated internationally, leading to a loss of foreign investment and support.

THIS IS A CRISIS!

The economic impact of the ban has been further exacerbated by the violent protests that erupted in response to the decision. The protests, which resulted in the deaths of at least 19 people and injuries to over 100 others, have led to a state of unrest and instability in the country. This has deterred investors and businesses from operating in Nepal, further impacting the country's economic growth and stability. The government's decision to lift the ban in response to public outrage and protests has been a step towards restoring economic stability and growth. However, the long-term effects of the ban on the country's economy and digital infrastructure remain to be seen.

YOU NEED TO KNOW THIS!

The government's ban on social media platforms in Nepal has had significant impacts on the country's economic stability and growth, particularly in sectors that rely heavily on digital communication and social media for their business operations. The ban, which blocked access to 26 platforms including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X, was imposed following an August 25 directive requiring foreign social media companies to register their operations in Nepal and appoint a local contact within seven days. When most platforms failed to comply by the deadline, the government cut access last week. This decision sparked nationwide protests, particularly among the youth, who are a significant demographic for digital and social media usage.

THIS IS A DISASTER!

The ban has disrupted the operations of businesses that depend on social media for marketing, customer engagement, and sales. For instance, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that use platforms like Facebook and Instagram to reach their customers have been severely affected. These platforms are crucial for e-commerce, digital marketing, and customer service, and their unavailability has led to a loss of revenue and customer engagement for many businesses. The ban has also impacted the tech industry, as many startups and tech companies rely on social media for networking, collaboration, and innovation. The disruption in digital communication has hindered their ability to operate efficiently and compete in the global market.

THIS IS A CALL TO ACTION!

The ban has also had a ripple effect on other sectors such as tourism and hospitality, which rely on social media for promotion and customer interaction. With the ban in place, these sectors have faced challenges in attracting tourists and maintaining customer relationships, leading to a decline in revenue and economic growth. The ban has also affected the education sector, as many educational institutions use social media platforms for online learning and communication with students. The disruption in digital communication has hindered the delivery of educational services and affected the learning outcomes of students.

THIS IS A CRISIS!

The economic impact of the ban has been further exacerbated by the violent protests that erupted in response to the decision. The protests, which resulted in the deaths of at least 19 people and injuries to over 100 others, have led to a state of unrest and instability in the country. This has deterred investors and businesses from operating in Nepal, further impacting the country's economic growth and stability. The government's decision to lift the ban in response to public outrage and protests has been a step towards restoring economic stability and growth. However, the long-term effects of the ban on the country's economy and digital infrastructure remain to be seen.

THIS IS A CALL TO ACTION!

The government's clampdown on digital media and freedom of expression in Nepal has the potential to have significant long-term effects on the country's political landscape and public trust in institutions. Here are some key points to consider:

1. EROSION OF PUBLIC TRUST: The government's actions, such as the social media ban and the proposed social media bill, have been met with widespread outrage and protests. This has led to a loss of public trust in the government and its institutions. For example, the protests that erupted in response to the social media ban were fueled by growing frustration and dissatisfaction against the political parties, who are blamed for corruption. This erosion of trust could have long-term implications for the stability and legitimacy of the government.

2. INCREASED POLITICAL INSTABILITY: The government's clampdown on digital media and freedom of expression has led to increased political instability. The protests that erupted in response to the social media ban were violent and resulted in the deaths of at least 19 people. This has led to a situation where the government is under pressure to address the demands of the protesters, which could lead to further political instability. For example, the resignation of Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli following the protests is a clear indication of the political instability that has been caused by the government's actions.

3. SUPPRESSION OF FREE SPEECH: The government's clampdown on digital media and freedom of expression has led to the suppression of free speech. This could have long-term implications for the country's democratic institutions and the ability of citizens to express their opinions and hold the government accountable. For example, the proposed social media bill includes provisions for imprisonment and fines for posts "deemed against national sovereignty or interest." This could lead to a situation where citizens are afraid to express their opinions, leading to a suppression of free speech.

4. INTERNATIONAL CONDEMNATION: The government's clampdown on digital media and freedom of expression has led to international condemnation. This could have long-term implications for the country's international relations and its ability to attract foreign investment. For example, international organizations, including the United Nations and human rights groups such as Amnesty International, had earlier raised concerns about the ban and the government's response to the protests. This could lead to a situation where the country is isolated internationally, leading to a loss of foreign investment and support.

THIS IS A CRISIS!

The economic impact of the ban has been further exacerbated by the violent protests that erupted in response to the decision. The protests, which resulted in the deaths of at least 19 people and injuries to over 100 others, have led to a state of unrest and instability in the country. This has deterred investors and businesses from operating in Nepal, further impacting the country's economic growth and stability. The government's decision to lift the ban in response to public outrage and protests has been a step towards restoring economic stability and growth. However, the long-term effects of the ban on the country's economy and digital infrastructure remain to be seen.

THIS IS A CALL TO ACTION!

The government's ban on social media platforms in Nepal has had significant impacts on the country's economic stability and growth, particularly in sectors that rely heavily on digital communication and social media for their business operations. The ban, which blocked access to 26 platforms including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X, was imposed following an August 25 directive requiring foreign social media companies to register their operations in Nepal and appoint a local contact within seven days. When most platforms failed to comply by the deadline, the government cut access last week. This decision sparked nationwide protests, particularly among the youth, who are a significant demographic for digital and social media usage.

THIS IS A DISASTER!

The ban has disrupted the operations of businesses that depend on social media for marketing, customer engagement, and sales. For instance, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that use platforms like Facebook and Instagram to reach their customers have been severely affected. These platforms are crucial for e-commerce, digital marketing, and customer service, and their unavailability has led to a loss of revenue and customer engagement for many businesses. The ban has also impacted the tech industry, as many startups and tech companies rely on social media for networking, collaboration, and innovation. The disruption in digital communication has hindered their ability to operate efficiently and compete in the global market.

THIS IS A CALL TO ACTION!

The ban has also had a ripple effect on other sectors such as tourism and hospitality, which rely on social media for promotion and customer interaction. With the ban in place, these sectors have faced challenges in attracting tourists and maintaining customer relationships, leading to a decline in revenue and economic growth. The ban has also affected the education sector, as many educational institutions use social media platforms for online learning and communication with students. The disruption in digital communication has hindered the delivery of educational services and affected the learning outcomes of students.

THIS IS A CRISIS!

The economic impact of the ban has been further exacerbated by the violent protests that erupted in response to the decision. The protests, which resulted in the deaths of at least 19 people and injuries to over 100 others, have led to a state of unrest and instability in the country. This has deterred investors and businesses from operating in Nepal, further impacting the country's economic growth and stability. The government's decision to lift the ban in response to public outrage and protests has been a step towards restoring economic stability and growth. However, the long-term effects of the ban on the country's economy and digital infrastructure remain to be seen.

THIS IS A CALL TO ACTION!

The government's clampdown on digital media and freedom of expression in Nepal has the potential to have significant long-term effects on the country's political landscape and public trust in institutions. Here are some key points to consider:

1. EROSION OF PUBLIC TRUST: The government's actions, such as the social media ban and the proposed social media bill, have been met with widespread outrage and protests. This has led to a loss of public trust in the government and its institutions. For example, the protests that erupted in response to the social media ban were fueled by growing frustration and dissatisfaction against the political parties, who are blamed for corruption. This erosion of trust could have long-term implications for the stability and legitimacy of the government.

2. INCREASED POLITICAL INSTABILITY: The government's clampdown on digital media and freedom of expression has led to increased political instability. The protests that erupted in response to the social media ban were violent and resulted in the deaths of at least 19 people. This has led to a situation where the government is under pressure to address the demands of the protesters, which could lead to further political instability. For example, the resignation of Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli following the protests is a clear indication of the political instability that has been caused by the government's actions.

3. SUPPRESSION OF FREE SPEECH: The government's clampdown on digital media and freedom of expression has led to the suppression of free speech. This could have long-term implications for the country's democratic institutions and the ability of citizens to express their opinions and hold the government accountable. For example, the proposed social media bill includes provisions for imprisonment and fines for posts "deemed against national sovereignty or interest." This could lead to a situation where citizens are afraid to express their opinions, leading to a suppression of free speech.

4. INTERNATIONAL CONDEMNATION: The government's clampdown on digital media and freedom of expression has led to international condemnation. This could have long-term implications for the country's international relations and its ability to attract foreign investment. For example, international organizations, including the United Nations and human rights groups such as Amnesty International, had earlier raised concerns about the ban and the government's response to the protests. This could lead to a situation where the country is isolated internationally, leading to a loss of foreign investment and support.

THIS IS A CRISIS!

The economic impact of the ban has been further exacerbated by the violent protests that erupted in response to the decision. The protests, which resulted in the deaths of at least 19 people and injuries to over 100 others, have led to a state of unrest and instability in the country. This has deterred investors and businesses from operating in Nepal, further impacting the country's economic growth and stability. The government's decision to lift the ban in response to public outrage and protests has been a step towards restoring economic stability and growth. However, the long-term effects of the ban on the country's economy and digital infrastructure remain to be seen.

THIS IS A CALL TO ACTION!