Photo :AI-generated. 

September 16, 2025

Andrew Campbell 

On September 10, Kathmandu remained under a strict curfew as smoke from burned buildings lingered in the air and soldiers patrolled the streets. The capital’s airport reopened that morning, offering a measure of calm after two nights of violent demonstrations that left at least 30 people dead and more than 1,000 injured,according to the health ministry.

The unrest began earlier this month when young Nepalis, frustrated by unemployment and economic inequality, launched protests that quickly escalated. Crowds attacked government offices, parliament, and the Supreme Court, ultimately prompting the prime minister’s resignation. Leaders of the “Gen Z” movement later said their peaceful rallies had been hijacked by other groups that resorted to arson andvandalism.

Underlying frustrations have been building for years. Youth unemployment stood at 20.8% in 2024, while remittances accounted for one-third of Nepal’s GDP. Discontent has also focused on entrenched political leaders who have rotated in and out of power for over a decade. Analysts say the current turmoil reflects not only immediate grievances, such as the recent social media ban, but also deep-seated anger over corruption and a lack of opportunities.