Nepal’s HoR Election: Rises Youth Candidacy and Digital Engagement

Youth participation is emerging as a defining feature of Nepal’s March 5 House of Representatives election, both in candidacy and voter engagement, as the Election Commission (EC) intensifies digital monitoring to prevent misuse of online platforms.

New data released by the EC shows a noticeable rise in younger candidates. Of the total nominees, 16.73 percent are aged 25–35, 46.43 percent fall within the 36–50 age group, 31.29 percent are aged 51–65, and 5.77 percent are above 65.

The figures reflect strong middle-age representation alongside a significant presence of young contenders.

Election officials say increasing political awareness among youths is also evident in voter registration trends, with more young citizens enrolling to vote and engaging in civic processes.

Digital and social media platforms have played a central role in this shift, enabling rapid and low-cost dissemination of election information and expanding political discussion.

However, the EC has raised concerns that the growing reliance on digital tools also increases the risk of misinformation, disinformation, and hate speech influencing the electoral process.