Why are teenagers protesting in Nepal?

Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets in Nepal's capital Kathmandu

Thousands of people have taken part in anti-government protests in Nepal, in South Asia, this week.

But what makes these protests unusual is that many of those taking part are young adults and teenagers - some are school pupils.

On Monday people gathered to demonstrate in the country's capital Kathmandu about the government ban on social media - including apps like YouTube, Instagram and Whatsapp. Protests turned violent as demonstrators clashed with police.

The ban was lifted a day later and Nepal's Prime Minister, KP Sharma Oli, stepped down but protests have continued. Read on to find out why.

How did the protests in Nepal begin?

Protesters are angry with Nepal's government and how it runs the country

Social media is a big part of Nepali life and BBC producer Charlotte Scarr, in Kathmandu, told Newsround why the first demonstrations happened.

"The protests initially started after the government in Nepal banned a number of social media apps.

"Nepal has a high number of its population living abroad, so the ban left many worried about how they could communicate online with relatives outside the country," Charlotte explained.

Many also say the government banned social media to stop it being used to organise and encourage protests.

Although the ban was lifted on Tuesday, anti-corruption protests - accusing the Prime Minister and members of his team of using their power and the country's money for their own gain - continued.

Young protestors in Nepal are also angry about nepotism - when people in higher positions, such as government ministers, use their power and influence to give special treatment to family members or friends.

This could be for things such jobs or promotions, and are often given at the expense of better candidates, who don't have these relationships with such powerful people.

"The demonstrations soon became a way for the teenagers and young people to show their frustration against the Prime Minister and his government, and how they spent the country's money," Charlotte added.

"In the weeks leading up to the protests, pictures had also been shared online showing the children of some politicians living very extravagant lives."

Protesters argue these relatives of politicians enjoy success and luxury unfairly - living off public money whilst ordinary Nepalis struggle.

Children 'unhappy' with politicians 'running Nepal'

Thousands of young people took part in the protests

Nepal, in South Asia, is home to the Himalayas - the world's highest mountain range and the world's tallest mountain, Mount Everest. It is known for its dramatic landscapes and rich culture.

But it is a country with a history of political uncertainty - with fourteen different governments in charge of the country in the past seventeen years and ongoing problems of corruption among politicians.

Nepal has a high rate of unemployment and poverty and many people feel unhappy with how the government has handled important issues.

Charlotte spoke to some teenage demonstrators to find out why they were protesting.

"The protesters we spoke to on the streets of Kathmandu were mainly under the age of 30. They even included school children who told us that they were unhappy with how politicians were running the country.

"One 14-year-old protester said the main problem facing Nepal has been unemployment, and that many young people have been choosing to move abroad for better job opportunities."

What happens next for Nepal?

A nationwide curfew is now in place until Thursday morning

The military - or armed forces - have stepped in and a curfew is in place - meaning that people living in the country have been told to stay at home.

On Wednesday Nepal's capital, Kathmandu, appeared calm as the army patrolled the streets.

The military has asked for the protesters to take part in talks to work out a peaceful solution.

Charlotte explained: "The protests are now over and the army has taken control of the streets.

"People in Nepal are now closely watching the conversations between the young protest leaders and military, who are currently deciding who will become Nepal's next leader."