Current Political and Social Situation in Nepal

Bishwa Rai

About International Nepal Fellowship [INF]

The International Nepal Fellowship [INF] is a Christian INGO/NGO with an holistic approach to health and sustainable development in Nepal.

It has been working with the Government of Nepal since 1952 AD.

INF Working

Area

About PaluwaPaluwa is one section of INF, and has been providing HIV/AIDS Voluntary Counselling & Testing and Care Services in Pokhara, Kaski since 1999

Aims of Paluwa:– To use opportunities for HIV prevention– To provide continuum of care to people

infected and affected by HIV and AIDS

Country Information• Total area: 147,181 sq km

• Population: 24,797,059 [2004]

• Life expectancy: 61 years

• HDI rank: 142 out of 172 countries

• GDP per capita: 1550 US dollar

• 31% people live below the poverty line – CBS

Background of Maoist Conflict

• Started on 12 Feb 1996

• Social exclusion of various ethnic group and minorities

• Domination of few high class and caste people

• High level of corruption

• High level of unemployment

• More than 12,000 people killed and thousands are injured

• About 2 00 000 people are believed to be displaced

• Created greater mobility, migration and urban congestion

• Breakdown of vital health and education system

• Shift of national priority and overall development

• High awareness among people about their rights

• End of Monarchy?

Impact of conflict in Nepal

• Peace agreement signed between Maoist and Gov on 21 Nov 2006

• Interim Constitution developed and implemented [republic Nepal, secular country]

• Heading towards constituency assembly election [ 2 times postponed]

• The election is planned for 10 April

The current political development

Influence of the cast system on society

• Untouchable status• Dalits can not perform worship• Access to common resources e.g. ponds, taps,

denied• Denial to participate social activities or entry into

public places• Forced labour, discriminatory practice• Social exclusion• Dalits are left behind from the social process and

development [comparatively very low HDI]

• Still fragile situation [Transition period]; Some arms groups are still agitating in the Terai [Lowland], King may play some roles, people are suspicious about Maoist

• Still long way to go for stability

• Some good results in health indicators and economy Unity of political parties is very important.

• Everybody is hopeful about future as all want peace in the country

Future prospects

Thank you

for your prayer and support for Nepal