During the Kathmandu demonstration on June 5, 2022, I witnessed the mobilization of young people to advocate for climate action
On June 5, 2022, which is World Environment Day, I took part in a strong and inspiring climate action protest in Kathmandu. The event, coordinated by Youth Advocacy Nepal in partnership with Grassroots Nepal, NAFAN, Global Peace Foundation, I’m Swedish, and Dalit Youth Alliance, was a vibrant expression of young unity and urgency demanding real climate justice.
When I walked in as an attendee, I could feel the excitement. Young people from many neighbourhoods, ethnic groups, and geographic areas came together to achieve a shared goal: holding those in power accountable and pushing long-term policies that protect our future. The gathering wasn’t just a protest; it was a movement driven by hope, anger, and determination.
It was a demonstration program at Maitighar of Kathmandu with signs that said “There is No Planet B” and “System Change, Not Climate Change.” I was especially moved by the participation of youth groups that aren’t well known, like the Dalit Youth Alliance. Their voices raised awareness that the climate problem does not affect everyone equally, with vulnerable groups often bearing the brunt of environmental degradation.
We all took a minute of silence to celebrate communities that are already being affected by climate change. This included communities in the Himalayas where glaciers are melting and in the Terai where floods are building up. The silence was so profound that it overshadowed any slogan.
The crowd then heard passionate talks from youth leaders. They discussed the need to put money into clean energy, change policies, teach about climate change in schools, and include native knowledge in plans for the environment. I felt really proud when I heard from young women and activists who were interested in how diversity affects climate action.
Take part in this demonstration to remember that real change starts when we do something and leave our comfort zones. After the event, I felt more connected to my community, more hopeful, and more determined to keep fighting this war, not just for myself but for younger people too.
Despite the fact that the climate problem impacts everyone, it is our voices, like ours, that have the power to bring about change. On June 5, 2022, we stood together. We’re not going to stop.
