The Gen Z generation, those born between 1997 and 2012, have grown up during a time of rapid technological innovation. This tech-savvy group is now protesting in Nepal due to the government’s ban on social media platforms. This piece explores the situation and also analyzes the daily time Gen Z spends on social media, specifically on platforms like Instagram and Facebook.
The Nepali government recently imposed a ban on 26 social media platforms, a move that led to street protests by Gen Z. Demonstrations against the ban occurred in Kathmandu, with some becoming heated.
The Nepali government has stated that the ban will be lifted once the social media companies comply with specific regulations. These include establishing offices within Nepal, registering with the government, appointing individuals to handle complaints, and developing systems to prevent misuse. Platforms like TikTok and Viber were not subject to the ban because they adhered to these requirements.
A vicinotech report indicates that Gen Z spends 4 to 6 hours daily on social media, focusing on stories, reels, and short videos on platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.
When considering popular social media apps in India, Instagram currently ranks highest. Gen Z also uses YouTube, Snapchat, and Reddit.
Gen Z users frequently engage with short videos and memes on social media.
Short-form videos, whether they are 15-second reels, 30-second YouTube shorts, or quick snaps, are highly favored. Content that fails to capture attention quickly is often dismissed.
Memes, offering humor, satire, and commentary on politics and everyday life, are also widely consumed. They are seen as more than just jokes.
Gen Z tends to value peer-generated content and real-time updates from friends, creators, and even strangers, over highly polished branded content.