Nepal's Bold Move: Banning 26 Social Media Apps to Shape a Safer Digital Future

On September 4, 2025, Nepal took a decisive step by banning 26 unregistered social media platforms, including giants like Meta’s Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Google’s YouTube, and X, for failing to register under the Social Media Directives 2080. This bold action, backed by a Supreme Court ruling, aims to curb misinformation, enhance accountability, and foster local innovation. At Lacspace, we explore the reasons, impacts, solutions, and our role in empowering Nepal’s digital landscape with AI-driven solutions.

Why Nepal Banned 26 Social Media Platforms

The ban, effective from midnight on September 4, 2025, follows repeated warnings from the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MoCIT). The Social Media Directives 2080, supported by a Supreme Court order on August 17, 2025, mandate that all platforms register locally, appoint a contact person, and comply with Nepal’s laws to monitor harmful content. Platforms like TikTok and Viber complied, while major players like Meta, Alphabet, and X ignored the seven-day ultimatum issued on August 28, leading to their suspension. This reflects Nepal’s push for digital sovereignty and accountability.

The government cites rising cybercrimes, fake news, and data privacy breaches as key drivers, aiming to ensure platforms operate within Nepal’s legal framework, similar to local businesses.

Impacts on Users, Businesses, and Society

With over 90% internet penetration and 87% of social media users on Facebook, the ban disrupts communication, entertainment, and income for millions of Nepalis. Businesses relying on social media for marketing—such as Kathmandu’s cafes or Pokhara’s retailers—face immediate challenges, especially after Meta’s recent monetization program launch in Nepal. Migrant workers, contributing 33.06% of GDP through remittances, may lose vital connections with families via WhatsApp or Messenger.

However, this opens doors for local platforms. Lacspace’s SparkHue and Grocista offer alternatives for e-commerce and delivery, leveraging AI to ensure compliance and cultural relevance.

Challenges of the Ban

Critics, including the Federation of Nepali Journalists, argue the ban threatens press freedom and the right to information, potentially weakening Nepal’s democratic image. Increased VPN usage, as seen during the 2023 TikTok ban, may heighten cybersecurity risks, with users vulnerable to data breaches. The informal economy, including startups and SMEs, faces setbacks as social media is a key marketing channel.

The lack of clear registration guidelines and intrusive oversight demands have deterred global platforms, raising concerns about censorship and implementation clarity.

Solutions to Navigate the Ban

The ban is temporary, with platforms able to resume operations upon registration. The MoCIT has streamlined the process, requiring platforms to appoint local liaisons and comply with tax laws. Users can adopt VPNs or shift to registered apps like TikTok, Viber, or Telegram (pending approval). Businesses should pivot to SEO, email marketing, or local platforms like Lacspace’s solutions to maintain visibility.

Lacspace is developing AI-driven tools to support businesses, offering secure, compliant platforms that align with Nepal’s vision for a regulated digital space.

Lacspace’s Role in Nepal’s Digital Evolution

At Lacspace, we’re committed to empowering Nepal’s digital future with platforms like CareSewa for healthcare and ScanSewa for analytics. Built with React.js and Node.js, our solutions prioritize privacy, accessibility, and local compliance, offering alternatives to banned platforms.

This ban fuels our mission to create a sovereign digital Nepal, reducing reliance on foreign tech while fostering innovation through Lacspace Labs.

Conclusion: A Step Toward Digital Sovereignty

Nepal’s ban on 26 social media platforms is a bold stride toward accountability and digital sovereignty. While it poses challenges, it creates opportunities for local innovation and economic growth. Lacspace stands ready to bridge global technology with Nepal’s needs, building a safer, more inclusive digital future for all Nepalis.

— Written by Eallen Karna (Chandan), Founder of Lacspace