Kathmandu [Nepal], September 8 – Nepal is observing its first Gen Z Martyrs’ Day on Tuesday commemorating young people who died during the Gen Z movement on September 8 and 9, 2025 which brought major political and social change to the country.
The day has received largely positive responses from young people who say it should serve as more than a public holiday. They view it as a reminder of the sacrifices made during the movement and a call for good governance, accountability and meaningful reform.
The interim government led by Sushila Karki declared 45 people martyrs on November 3, 2025 and 42 as “Gen Z Governance Warriors” and three police personnel as immortalised police personnel. It also decided to observe Bhadra 23 of the Nepali calendar as Gen Z Martyrs’ Day annually. A total of 76 people died during the September protests.
Young leaders and families of the deceased have expressed hope in the current government led by Prime Minister Balendra Shah saying it has raised expectations that the movement’s demands will lead to reforms.
However some young people have urged the government to prioritise victims of the devastating August 26 Bhotekoshi floods saying public resources should focus on those still mourning and searching for missing family members.
Gen Z leaders say the strongest tribute to the martyrs would be building an accountable, corruption-free state reflecting the aspirations that brought their generation onto the streets.
