Protests in Nepal Against Social Media Ban Claim Heavy Toll
kathmandu, maandag, 8 september 2025.
Nepal has imposed a ban on 26 social media platforms, including Facebook and YouTube, leading to mass protests. At least 14 protesters have been killed and dozens injured in clashes with the police. The government claims that the ban is necessary to maintain public order and safety, but critics see it as an attempt at censorship and a restriction on press freedom.
Mass Protests and Violence
Since the announcement of the ban on 26 social media platforms, including Facebook and YouTube, mass protests have erupted in Nepal. At least 14 protesters have been killed and dozens injured in clashes with the police. The protests began in the capital, Kathmandu, and have grown into nationwide actions involving other cities. The police used tear gas, rubber bullets, and water cannons to subdue the demonstrators [1][2][3][4][5].
Reasons for the Ban
According to the government, the ban is necessary to ensure public order and safety. The new regulations require social media platforms to register with the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology within a week. Platforms that failed to comply with these requirements were blocked from 3 September 2025 [3][5][6]. The government states that the aim is to combat misinformation, hate speech, and online crime [3][6].
Criticism and International Reactions
However, critics view the ban as an attempt by the government to restrict press freedom and freedom of expression. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) warns that the ban sets a ‘dangerous precedent’ for press freedom. Human rights organisations and opposition parties have criticised the legislation, arguing that it could lead to increased censorship and control [2][3][6]. International reactions have ranged from strong criticism to support for the government, depending on the positions of various countries and organisations [3][6].
Impact on the Population and Economy
The ban has had severe consequences for the population and economy of Nepal. Approximately 7.5 percent of the Nepalese population works abroad, and the blocking of social media significantly affects communication with this group. Additionally, businesses and the tourism sector are also negatively impacted, as social media is a crucial tool for marketing and communication [3][6].
Future Steps
The government has stated that the ban is temporary and will be reviewed every 30 days. However, no specific end date has been set. Social media platforms that comply with the new requirements can resume their services. So far, TikTok, Viber, and several other platforms have registered and remain operational. Telegram has submitted its documentation and is awaiting approval [3][5][6].