Nepal: Violence against demonstrators must end!
09.09.2025
In Nepal, 19 people have been killed and more than 140 injured in protests in recent days.
Mostly teenagers and young adults demonstrated nationwide for their right to freedom of expression: They were protesting against the blocking of 26 social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and WhatsApp. The government had attempted to place the platforms under stricter state control and censorship.
The organizers spoke of demonstrations by "Generation Z": Many of the young people and young adults demanded not only more transparency but also better economic prospects and more decisive action against corruption in their country.
In the capital, Kathmandu, violence erupted as thousands of protesters attempted to reach the parliament building. Police fired on demonstrators, including with live ammunition. As a result of the clashes, Nepalese Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli resigned. While the social media ban has since been temporarily lifted, a curfew is now in effect in the capital. Meanwhile, the protests continue, some of them violent: On Tuesday, according to media reports, demonstrators set fire to the parliament building.
Terre des Hommes joins the United Nations call for the protection of civilians and, in particular, the statement of our NGO network in Nepal:
Violence against children and young people is never acceptable. Children, adolescents, and young adults have a right to freedom of expression and assembly. As a signatory to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, Nepal has a duty to respect these rights – as well as the right of all children and young people to protection from violence.
Association of International NGOs in Nepal (AIN)
Statement
8.9.2025
AIN strongly condemns the reported acts of violence inflicted on Gen Z during today's demonstrations in Nepal. Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and all those affected. The use of force resulting in the loss of life is unacceptable. It represents a grave violation of the fundamental rights to life, peaceful assembly, and freedom of expression.
As a signatory to the International Convention on the Rights of the Child, Nepal is legally bound to protect children's right to peaceful assembly. Failure to do so is not only a legal violation but a moral failure.
AIN, deeply shocked and saddened by this act, calls for accountability, justice, and the protection of human rights for all, and decisive action to protect children from further harm.
Association of International Non-Governmental Organizations in Nepal
opinion
8.9.2025
AIN strongly condemns the reported acts of violence against Generation Z during today's demonstrations in Nepal. Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and all those affected. The use of violence that resulted in death is unacceptable and constitutes a grave violation of the fundamental rights to life, peaceful assembly, and freedom of expression.
As a signatory state to the International Convention on the Rights of the Child, Nepal is legally obligated to protect children's right to peaceful assembly. Failure to comply with this obligation is not only a legal violation but also a moral failing.
AIN is deeply shocked and saddened by this act and demands accountability, justice and the protection of human rights for all, as well as decisive measures to protect children from further suffering.