Can Elections Secure Nepal’s Youth Revolution?
Foreign Policy
by Bibek BhandariFebruary 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Nepal’s political landscape is on the brink of a significant shift as young voters demand change in the upcoming snap elections. After years of leadership dominated by aging politicians, the youth-driven anti-corruption movement has sparked hope for a new generation of leaders. The election, triggered by violent protests and security force crackdowns that left over 77 dead, marks a pivotal moment for Nepal’s democracy. With nearly 18.9 million eligible voters—many under 25—and over 3,400 candidates from diverse political backgrounds, the race is shaping up as a clash between entrenched power structures and fresh ideas. The outcome will determine whether Nepal can move beyond its legacy of corruption, economic inequality, and youth unemployment, which has pushed thousands to emigrate daily.
The protest movement that began in September last year quickly escalated, leading to the resignation of Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli and the rise of Sushila Karki as Nepal’s first female prime minister. This shift came amid growing frustration over corruption, with Nepal ranking 109 out of 182 countries on Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index. Youth unemployment has risen to 20.8%, fueling demands for systemic change. The elections now serve as a referendum on whether the new generation can break the dominance of traditional parties like the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist), Nepali Congress, and the newly merged Nepali Communist Party.
Emerging leaders like rapper-turned-Mayor Balendra Shah and former public servant Kulman Ghising are challenging the status quo, though their alliances remain fragile. Shah’s polarizing persona has made him a focal point for both supporters and critics, with many envisioning him as the next prime minister. Meanwhile, 73-year-old Oli remains confident in his political invincibility, dismissing newcomers as unlikely to lead for decades. This generational battle is not
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Originally published on Foreign Policy on 2/24/2026