Nepal Gen-Z Protest: Social Media Blacklist Sparks Uprising
Recently, Nepal has imposed a complete ban on social media. Let’s take a look at countries where platforms are part of the Social Media Blacklist.
On September 4, 2025, the Nepalese government announced a major decision banning 26 social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, and X. This move triggered massive protests across the nation.
In Kathmandu, thousands of Gen Z protesters took to the streets and marched towards the Parliament House. The protest turned violent, leaving 1 person dead and 80 injured. Following the chaos, the government imposed a curfew in Kathmandu, while India’s SSB (Sashastra Seema Bal) tightened security along the Indo-Nepal border.
Let’s explore other countries where social media is completely banned — and in some cases, posting online can even lead to a death sentence.
Where Is Social Media Banned?
Nepal is not the only country on the Social Media Blacklist. Several nations enforce strict regulations, blocking major platforms and punishing those who break the rules.
China
In China, strict restrictions place popular platforms like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X on the Social Media Blacklist. The Chinese government promotes domestic apps like WeChat and Douyin. Using banned platforms can lead to heavy fines and imprisonment.
North Korea
Under Kim Jong Un’s regime, internet and social media access is nearly nonexistent for ordinary citizens. Only select government officials have limited access. Posting online is virtually impossible — and in some cases, violations may lead to capital punishment. North Korea is one of the strictest examples on the global Social Media Blacklist.
Iran
Iran blocks platforms such as Facebook, X, and YouTube under the banner of national security. The government enforces strict censorship, and those posting anti-government content face severe punishments, including prison or even death penalty. Clearly, Iran’s policies place it high on the Social Media Blacklist.
Afghanistan
In Taliban-controlled Afghanistan, sharing images of living beings on social media can invite harsh punishment. Platforms are largely inaccessible, making it a firm part of the global Social Media Blacklist.
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia monitors online activity closely. Posting against the government or content that offends religious sentiments can result in fines, imprisonment, or even execution. In 2022, one individual received the death penalty for posting anti-government content on Twitter (now X). Saudi Arabia remains a notable country on the Social Media Blacklist.
From Nepal to North Korea, the Social Media Blacklist shows how governments around the world restrict online freedom. In some nations, one post can cost you your life.
