Statement

The International Union of Socialist Youth (IUSY) expresses its serious concern regarding recent attempts of Government of Nepal to restrict and ban student political organizations within universities and campuses in Nepal, as well as the increasing presence of security and military forces in academic institutions.

Universities and campuses must remain spaces of free thought, democratic participation, debate, and civic engagement. The history of democratic movements across the world, including Nepal’s own struggle for democracy, clearly demonstrates that student movements and youth activism have played a fundamental role in defending human rights, social justice, inclusion, and democratic transformation.

The attempt to silence student organizations in educational institutions is not a solution to political challenges. Rather, it weakens democratic culture, limits youth participation, and undermines fundamental freedoms guaranteed under democratic principles and international human rights values.

IUSY strongly believes that political freedom, freedom of association, freedom of expression, and the right to peaceful organization are essential pillars of any democratic society. Student unions and political student organizations are legitimate democratic actors that help young people engage in public life, develop leadership, and contribute constructively to national discourse.

Furthermore, the militarization or excessive security presence inside universities and campuses creates fear and intimidation among students and academic communities. Educational institutions should never become zones of surveillance or repression. Campuses must be protected as safe and independent democratic spaces dedicated to education, dialogue, critical thinking, and peaceful political participation.

IUSY stands in solidarity with democratic student movements, youth activists, and all those defending academic freedom and democratic rights in Nepal. We call upon the Government of Nepal, university authorities, and all political stakeholders to:

• Respect democratic freedoms and constitutional rights.
• Ensure the autonomy and independence of universities.
• Protect the right of students to organize peacefully.
• Reject intimidation and militarization of campuses.
• Promote dialogue, democratic engagement, and peaceful coexistence within educational institutions.

Democracy grows stronger when young people are encouraged to participate, not when they are silenced.

The International Union of Socialist Youth reaffirms its commitment to global solidarity, democratic values, social justice, and the empowerment of youth everywhere.

In solidarity,

International Union of Socialist Youth (IUSY)