In a sudden U-turn, Nepal’s National Assembly has unanimously withdrawn a controversial bill aimed at imposing strict controls on social media usage. The decision comes just months after Australia pioneered a worldwide first by banning under-16s from major platforms, sparking a global debate on digital safety for minors.
The bill, which sought to regulate social networks and their management, was pulled back following intense discussions. National Assembly Chairman Narayan Dahal formally proposed the withdrawal, which passed without dissent. This move follows recommendations from the Legislation Management Committee, chaired by Tuls Kumari Dahal, who had earlier presented a detailed report on the proposal.
During committee deliberations, 35 members submitted a staggering 155 amendments, highlighting the deep divisions and complexities involved. Nepal’s Ministry of Communication and Information Technology had already signaled its intent to retract the bill on February 3, appealing to parliament for approval.
The backdrop to this development is Nepal’s own turbulent history with social media restrictions. In 2025, proposed bans ignited the Gen-Z movement, a youth-led uprising that forced authorities to reconsider heavy-handed approaches. Globally, nations like Ireland and Denmark are watching closely, contemplating similar measures to shield young users from online harms.
Australia’s bold step has set a precedent. Enforced from December 10, the law mandates platforms to block accounts for those under 16. Early compliance data reveals tech giants have deleted nearly 4.7 million underage accounts within a month, according to the country’s internet regulator.
eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant hailed the results as promising. ‘These early outcomes are very encouraging,’ she stated. ‘Regulatory guidance and platform engagement are already yielding positive compliance.’ This data marks the first official snapshot of how major platforms like Meta, TikTok, and others are adapting to stringent age verification rules.
Nordic countries, including Denmark, announced in November a pact to block social media access for under-15s, potentially legislating by mid-2026. As governments worldwide grapple with balancing innovation and child protection, Nepal’s retreat signals caution against rushing into bans without broader consensus.
The withdrawal leaves open questions about future regulations in Nepal, where youth activism remains a potent force. For now, the focus shifts to refining policies that prioritize safety without stifling free expression.