This study explores how the younger generations in the provinces of Gandaki, Lumbini, and Madhesh engage with evolving social, political, and economic opportunities. Young people constitute approximately 20.8% of Nepal’s population, with around 40% of them under the age of 18. As digital transformation reshapes business landscapes and enhances social activism and political participation, experiences vary significantly across different generations. At Purak, this mapping study seeks to chart the shifting trends of youth initiatives and movements in Nepal.
Since the promulgation of the Constitution in 2015, the profile of youth initiatives in Nepal has been significantly transformed. Before this shifting moment, youth activism was deeply oriented toward political reform and social change. Indeed, many groups have advocated democracy and civil rights in which young people have taken active leadership roles. Between 1990 and 2006, youth groups played a critical role in the calls for peace, political stability, and youth inclusion in politics, and they used their agency to pressure and influence political parties and political debate. But, after the promulgation of the Constitution of Nepal in 2015, a big change came in youth engagement. It evolved from an initial orientation of political activism to a broader focus on development, civic engagement, and social empowerment. Nationally, young people are actively engaging in policy advocacy, education, and employment opportunities. They’re driving community building and social entrepreneurship, a shift seen at both provincial and local levels.
In this study, it was found that Youth in Nepal are building connections with global movements for issues like climate change to be effective. Most are involved in powerful social, economic, and political work, and have remarkable entrepreneurial drive and creativity, even within family businesses. In Madhesh, for instance, almost 40 percent of elected representatives are below 40 years of age. Many Madhesi youth are drawn to government jobs, particularly through the Public Service Commission and the quota system for civil services and security agencies. Additionally, a considerable number of educated youths are eager to connect with various youth platforms led by embassies and United Nations initiatives. However, in Birgunj, differing perspectives have emerged regarding youth involvement in their communities. Younger individuals see their roles in collective responsibility and social accountability as expanding, while professionals over 50 believe that the youth are becoming more absorbed in technology, start-ups, and career-focused activities, which they feel diminishes their sense of community involvement. The vibrant youth population in cities like Birgunj exemplifies this blend of ambition and community spirit, as they balance traditional aspirations with modern innovations. Initiatives such as the ‘Green Janakpur’ campaign highlight their commitment to environmental sustainability and social responsibility, showcasing the positive impact of youth engagement on local communities using technology.
These are preliminary findings from Madhesh Province, with studies in other provinces currently underway.
