Eroding Trust, Emerging Voices: Youth and Democratic Legitimacy in Nepal and Sri Lanka

This paper delves into the trajectory of democracy in Nepal and Sri Lanka which represent two distinct yet converging stories of political transformation in South Asia. While Nepal’s journey has been defined by a transition from monarchy to a federal democratic republic, Sri Lanka’s post-independence experience reflects a long-standing electoral democracy grappling with majoritarian politics, economic crises, and institutional stress. Despite their differing historical paths, both countries today face a common challenge: the erosion of democratic trust, particularly among younger citizens. Increasing corruption and mismanagement of public funds, the wide age gap between the rising Gen Z and ageing political leaders and the ensuing gap in aspirations, amongst other glaring problems has led to a trust deficit. The paper posits a multi-dimensional approach through civic and democratic engagement with Gen Z in both countries for a synergic renewal.