Wednesday, September 10, 2025

The Nepal Protests and Violence

 


The Nepalese public became even more vexed with the ineffectiveness of their government. The youth became active in demonstrations, which resulted in attacks on government buildings. Gen Z was represented the most in the protests. Images are now being seen of the parliament building being set into flames. Prior to this, there was an attempt to ban social media. The reason was to stop organizing and undermine free press. The protests forced Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli into resignation. His own safety is at risk, with protesters attacking his residence. Economics was a factor  in the violence. Large amounts of unemployed youth are struggling. The upper class of Nepal is able to maintain a higher standard of living. Simultaneously, Nepal is dependent on finances from citizens living abroad. Personal remittances are transfers of funds that are non-commercial. Individuals do send money to their families, yet this should not be the basis the the gross national product. Decades of this practice left Nepal in an unstable economic condition.  No party obtained a majority, so forming a new government would be difficult. Nepal could descend into a coup or a possible civil war. If the military takes over, violence will escalate. Law enforcement has already engaged in violence against protesters. A change in government at some stage will attract the attention of India and Pakistan. More instability might cause certain citizens to propose reestablishing the monarchy. The question remains is if the protesters and the government can reach a consensus.  

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