Nepal’s parliament has unanimously killed a bill to regulate social media, retreating from plans that mirrored Australia’s groundbreaking under-16 ban. The National Assembly’s move highlights growing wariness over digital restrictions amid youth-led resistance.
Chairman Narayan Dahal tabled the withdrawal for the Social Network Usage and Management Bill, passing without opposition. Stemming from the Legislation Management Committee’s review—where 35 members lodged 155 changes—the ministry had sought recall on February 3.
Context is key: Nepal’s 2025 ban buzz birthed the Gen-Z uprising, a youth revolt echoing globally. Australia’s policy, from December 10, saw 4.7 million under-16 accounts vanish, cheered by eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant: ‘Positive early signs of compliance.’
Data confirms platforms’ rapid response, with nearly 5 million minor accounts deleted per Euro News. Denmark, Ireland, and Nordic states (targeting under-15s by 2026) are advancing akin laws.
This global surge addresses harms like addiction and bullying, yet Nepal’s veto signals caution. Policymakers must now craft balanced frameworks—leveraging tech innovations for age checks while honoring free speech. The lesson? Engage youth early to avoid explosive fallout.