Samik Kharel is an independent researcher, journalist, and academic in Kathmandu. Kharel has been writing and researching various social issues focusing on digital technology and its societal implications. 

He has been active in Internet Governance since 2018, contributing to various national, regional, and international engagements. He has been a fellow at APrIGF 2021, APSIG 2021, and ICANN 73 and is an active member of the APRALO. He has also been awarded a fellowship at ICANN 77 in Washington, DC.  Kharel also teaches at the university.