A social media trend, “Nepo Kid”, has spread rapidly in Nepal in recent days, as young people accuse the children of politicians and influential figures of enjoying privileges funded by corruption.

The campaign, which has gained traction on platforms such as TikTok and Reddit, labels sons and daughters of political leaders as “Nepo Kids” and questions their lifestyles.

Users have shared images and videos showing luxury cars, foreign education and lavish holidays, contrasting them with the struggles of ordinary citizens who often migrate abroad for jobs.

The terms “Nepo Kid,” and “Nepo Baby,” are derived from nepotism,

meaning opportunities gained through family ties rather than merit. It first became widely used in Hollywood and Bollywood to describe the children of film stars, and was later adopted in the Philippines in a campaign highlighting the children of politicians.

In Nepal, it is now being used to target the families of former prime ministers, ministers, lawmakers, leaders, and other influential personalities.

Reddit users have accused political families of misusing taxpayers’ money. “When you see politicians’ children, it feels like taxpayers’ money has funded their luxury cars, foreign education and lifestyle, while ordinary youths are forced to work hard abroad,” one post read.

Videos with the hashtag #PoliticiansNepoBabyNepal circulated on TikTok question whether politicians’ children achieved success through their own effort or through their parents’ power and wealth. Some videos highlight children of diplomats and lawmakers receiving special privileges.

The posts reflect public anger over entrenched corruption and widening inequality.

“Nepo Kids show off their lifestyle on Instagram and TikTok, but never explain where the money comes from,” one TikTok user said in a widely shared video.

Reddit discussions suggest the campaign is likely to spill onto the streets. Some users have called for protests in Baneshwar and other parts of the country, saying Generation Z is “waking up” and that online campaigns should be followed by physical demonstrations.

The government has restricted social media access in recent days, but organisers said they plan to move ahead with street protests from Monday.

Not all youths agree with the campaign. Some say targeting children for their parents’ actions risks cyberbullying.

“It is unfair for children to be punished for their parents’ mistakes. This can have a negative effect on their personal lives,” one TikTok user said.

The online campaign continues to grow, and activists say they will continue raising questions about political families and their lifestyles.