It is no secret that the digital world has given rise to new terms and concepts, including the concept of Generation Z, also known as "Zoomers" or "post-millennials," this generation represents a rising demographic segment that cannot be ignored, as it has become an active force in shaping the economic and social future, not only as an age group, but as a unique set of values and behaviors that challenge traditional models of work, education, and consumption.
This generation has grown up in extraordinary circumstances: From the global financial crisis, to the COVID-19 pandemic, to theThis generation is known as the first generation of Digital Natives, as they were born in an environment where the Internet and digital technology were an integral part of daily life. Unlike Millennials, who are considered "digital pioneers" because they witnessed the evolution of technology, Generation Z was born into a fully-fledged digital world. For them, technology is a natural extension of the self, which is why they seamlessly integrate it into education, work, communication, and entertainment, and are naturally adept at navigating between platforms and utilizing online resources.
In an unprecedented appearance, Nepal's Generation Z - born between 1997 and 2012 - played a pivotal role in destabilizing an entire government. The government issued a sudden decision to ban social media platforms (Facebook, YouTube, X) under the pretext of not being officially registered, a decision that coincided with digital developments in this direction, especially In the spread of what is known as "Nebo's children," a term that describes the children of celebrities and politicians who showcase a life of luxury and wealth through social media and the Internet, this content has angered Nepalese youth who suffer from unemployment and poverty and toil long hours for low wages.
The decision to ban the ban was the straw that broke the camel's back. Young people suddenly found themselves isolated from their digital space, which is a means of expression and even earning a living. Massive demonstrations erupted, during which government buildings were stormed, the parliament was burned, and deaths and injuries occurred. The youth resorted to using tools to bypass the ban and organize peaceful protests through alternative platforms, which expanded the scope of popular anger.
In the face of the escalation, the government retracted its decision, but that did not stop the wave of anger, as the prime minister was forced to resign after his house and the homes of other ministers were burned, and they were evacuated by army helicopters, and the evacuation operations were widely shown on platforms and how rescue ropes were hanging from the plane. In an attempt to contain the situation, the authorities imposed a curfew in the capital Kathmandu and other cities, issued "shoot on sight" orders in cases of escalation, Tribhuvan International Airport was closed, a number of foreigners were evacuated, and the situation remained tense and unstable.
The events in Nepal reveal that Generation Z is no longer a mere spectator to public policies, but has become an influential force capable of toppling governments. This generation possesses effective digital tools that enable them to transfer their anger and demands from the virtual world to the real world. The publication by Nepalese youth of images of the "luxurious life" lived by the children of corrupt politicians was the spark that precipitated the explosion, and proved that the digital space is no longer a field of entertainment only, but a political and social arena par excellence.
The events in Nepal provide a stark example that Generation Z is the largest influential force in the contemporary global scene, a force that cannot be neglected or underestimated. Therefore, it is imperative to develop new tools and discourse that are commensurate with its influential energy and invest its capabilities in bringing about positive change instead of confrontation, as social media platforms today have become key drivers of any transformation, whether social, political, or economic.
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