Nepal’s history of online journalism began in the United States in 1993, with the launch of Nepal Digest in the U.S. The Kathmandu Post, Nepal's English-language newspaper, launched its online edition in 1995 on the University of Illinois website, with assistance from a Nepali engineering student studying there. Since then, Nepal has experienced significant growth, now hosting over 4,600 news sites. In the U.S., the Nepalese community operates approximately 40 news outlets, including online portals, YouTube channels, and podcasts, which serve the Nepalese community in the U.S. Some outlets also reach audiences in Canada. Several are registered with Nepal’s Department of Information and cover the Nepalese community in the U.S. through U.S.-based contributors.
Currently, there is a lack of research on Nepalese diaspora journalism in the U.S.; therefore, this paper provides foundational knowledge based on new findings. I conducted interviews with Nepalese journalists, reviewed 40 websites, and analyzed content, coverage, and scope. The study, through a content analysis of 10 sample news outlets, examines the quality of content, working conditions, ethical issues, and demographics of the Nepalese audience in the U.S. It highlights the challenges and opportunities faced by over 300 Nepalese journalists and 40 outlets, noting their active involvement in various associations. The paper also explores U.S.-based Nepalese journalists working in American news media and Nepalese media outlets. Overall, this paper contributes to the foundational knowledge about Nepalese diaspora journalism in the U.S.

Authors:
Prakash Acharya, Ohio University, United States

About the Presenter(s)
Prakash Acharya is currently Ph.D. Student and Instructor of Record at E.W. Scripps School of Journalism, Ohio University, USA. A long-time journalist and journalism teacher, Acharya is interested in public policy coverage and audience engagement.

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