Nepal’s Gen Z Sees Little Hope at Home

The recent wave of protests that swept through Nepal’s streets was sparked by a government-imposed ban on social media platforms, but for many young people, the unrest was about something much deeper. The country’s crippling economy has left a generation feeling disillusioned and desperate, with many seeing no other option but to seek a better future abroad.

For Nepal’s Gen Z, born in the early 2000s, the future looks bleak. Unemployment is rampant, and opportunities are scarce. The country’s economy has been struggling for years, with a staggering 25% of the population living below the poverty line. The lack of prospects has led to a brain drain, with many talented young Nepalis seeking greener pastures overseas.

“I don’t see a future for myself here,” said 22-year-old Aryan Shrestha, who recently graduated with a degree in engineering. “I’ve applied to several jobs, but no one is hiring. I’m considering going to the Gulf countries or Malaysia to work as a laborer. It’s not my dream job, but it’s better than nothing.”

The sentiment is echoed by many of his peers. A survey by the Nepal-based think tank, the Centre for Investigative Journalism, found that over 70% of young Nepalis aged 18-25 want to migrate abroad in search of better opportunities. The majority cited economic reasons, with many expressing frustration at the lack of job prospects and career advancement opportunities in Nepal.

The government’s social media ban, which was recently lifted, was just the latest catalyst for discontent. Young people took to the streets to protest not just the ban, but also the government’s failure to address the country’s economic woes. “We’re not just fighting for social media,” said 20-year-old student leader, Sushil Thapa. “We’re fighting for our future. We want the government to create jobs, to invest in education and healthcare. We want a chance to build a life here, not just survive.”

As the protests subsided, the government promised to listen to the young people’s demands. But for many, it’s too little, too late. The exodus of young Nepalis seeking a better life abroad is likely to continue, with many fearing that the country’s best and brightest will be lost to the world.

The trend is worrying for Nepal’s future. With an aging population and a shrinking workforce, the country needs its young people to stay and contribute to its economy. But for now, it seems that many see no other option but to leave. As Aryan Shrestha put it, “I’m not saying I don’t love my country. I do. But I need to think about my own future. If there’s no hope here, then I have to go elsewhere.”