YOUTH PARTICIPATION IN NEPALI POLITICS: A CATALYST FOR CHANGE

 

In Nepal, youth have historically been a powerful force in shaping political discourse and driving movements that have redefined the country’s political landscape. From the revolution against the Rana regime in the mid-20th century to the People's Movement (Jana Andolan) that ushered in democracy, young people have often been at the forefront of change. Today, as Nepal navigates its path through a challenging period of post-conflict reconstruction, social transformation, and democratic consolidation, youth participation in politics has taken on new significance.

Nepal’s population is predominantly young, with about 40% of the country’s citizens aged between 16 and 40 years. This demographic reality gives youth a substantial stake in political outcomes. Their engagement in the political process has the potential to influence not only the future of governance but also the nation’s trajectory in terms of economic growth, social justice, and development. However, while the numbers suggest youth should be at the helm of political power, their actual involvement and influence in politics remain complex and multifaceted.

One of the defining features of Nepali politics is its deep-rooted hierarchical structure, with established political leaders and families dominating party politics for decades. These entrenched political elites often marginalize younger voices, viewing them as inexperienced or, worse, as mere tools to mobilize support during elections. This marginalization is a key obstacle to meaningful youth participation. While young people are active in street protests and grassroots activism, their representation in formal political institutions—such as Parliament, political party leadership, and government ministries—remains limited.

Despite this, youth political engagement has been evolving. In recent years, many young activists, students, and professionals have grown disillusioned with the traditional political parties and their inability to address pressing issues like unemployment, corruption, and social inequality. As a result, there has been a surge of interest in alternative political movements and independent candidates who focus on issues relevant to young people. These movements aim to break away from the old political guard and offer a platform for youth-led governance that is progressive, transparent, and accountable.

One notable example of youth activism in Nepali politics is the rise of youth-led movements like Bibeksheel Nepali and Sajha Party. These parties, founded by and for young people, represent a departure from traditional politics, emphasizing transparency, meritocracy, and policies aimed at improving education, health care, and job opportunities for youth. Although these parties have faced challenges in gaining widespread electoral success, their influence on political discourse is significant. They have created a space for young people to voice their frustrations with the status quo and demand a new kind of politics that reflects their aspirations.

Another key aspect of youth participation in Nepali politics is their involvement in student unions. Historically, student unions affiliated with major political parties have played a vital role in shaping political agendas and organizing protests. However, these unions have also been criticized for perpetuating the same old political dynamics, with student leaders often using their positions as stepping stones to join the traditional political elite. Despite these criticisms, student unions continue to be an important avenue for youth political engagement, offering a platform for students to influence party politics and national policy.

Social media has also become a significant tool for youth participation in Nepali politics. The proliferation of internet access and the use of platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok have allowed young people to engage with political issues in new ways. These platforms provide a space for debate, discussion, and organizing, often bypassing traditional media and political institutions. Youth are increasingly using social media to raise awareness about corruption, social injustice, environmental issues, and human rights violations. The digital space has thus become a vital arena for political activism, especially for those who feel disenfranchised by formal political processes.

However, while social media has empowered many young Nepalis to engage in political discourse, it also presents challenges. The rise of misinformation, echo chambers, and divisive rhetoric can sometimes undermine constructive political debate and exacerbate polarization. Additionally, digital activism, while impactful in raising awareness, often struggles to translate into tangible political change. This raises questions about how youth can move from online activism to more structured and effective participation in the political process.

The intersection of politics and youth is further complicated by Nepal’s socio-economic challenges. Unemployment rates among young people are high, and many are forced to migrate abroad in search of better opportunities. This brain drain not only weakens the domestic economy but also deprives the country of a significant portion of its potential political leaders. The youth who remain in Nepal often face financial pressures, which can limit their ability to participate in politics, especially in a system where money plays a significant role in election campaigns and party politics.

Despite these challenges, the potential for youth to shape Nepali politics remains immense. For one, the issues that affect youth—such as education, employment, and social inclusion—are at the heart of Nepal’s development agenda. As the country continues to rebuild after the civil war and the 2015 earthquake, there is a growing recognition that sustainable development and political stability require the active involvement of young people. Whether through formal political channels, civil society, or grassroots movements, youth have the energy, creativity, and determination to drive the country forward.

Moreover, the evolving political landscape in Nepal suggests that the older generation of politicians may not be able to maintain their dominance forever. With increasing pressure from a more educated and politically aware youth population, traditional political parties are being forced to reconsider their strategies. Some are beginning to include younger leaders in their ranks, albeit slowly. There is also a growing awareness within these parties that addressing youth concerns is crucial for winning elections, given the size of the youth electorate.

Educational reform is another critical factor in enhancing youth participation in politics. Historically, Nepali education has focused more on rote learning than critical thinking and civic engagement. This has left many young people ill-prepared to engage with politics in a meaningful way. However, recent efforts to reform the education system, including the incorporation of civic education and programs that encourage youth leadership and activism, are beginning to bear fruit. These reforms aim to empower young people with the knowledge and skills they need to become informed and active citizens.

Civil society organizations also play a crucial role in fostering youth participation in politics. Organizations like Youth Initiative and Restless Development Nepal work to engage young people in the democratic process by providing training, resources, and platforms for dialogue. These organizations help bridge the gap between young people and the political system, empowering them to advocate for their rights and contribute to policy-making processes. Additionally, many NGOs and international organizations focus on promoting youth-led initiatives in areas such as climate change, gender equality, and human rights, further enhancing youth involvement in governance.

The role of international actors in promoting youth participation in Nepali politics is also worth noting. Development partners, including the United Nations, have been instrumental in supporting youth programs and initiatives aimed at enhancing political participation. These efforts are often aligned with global initiatives, such as the United Nations' Youth 2030 strategy, which aims to empower young people to be agents of change in their societies. International support has provided young people in Nepal with opportunities to engage in leadership programs, policy dialogues, and global platforms, increasing their visibility and influence in both national and international politics.