Nepal is a small yet significant nation, rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Located between two rising global powers—India and China—Nepal holds a unique geopolitical position. This geography offers not only challenges but also opportunities. From being a "landlocked" country, Nepal has the potential to transform itself into a "land-linked" bridge between South Asia and East Asia.
As the country is set to graduate from the Least Developed Country (LDC) category to a Developing Country by 2026, it stands at a pivotal moment in its journey. This transition brings new hopes, but also responsibilities. Political stability, good governance, balanced diplomacy, and a clear national vision are more crucial now than ever before.
Root Causes of Political Instability in Nepal
Nepal has witnessed frequent changes in government, policy inconsistencies, institutional weaknesses, and factional politics. These factors, along with certain subtle external influences, have contributed to ongoing political instability.
Italy, for instance, once faced similar instability, with frequent government collapses. Over time, it adopted constitutional reforms and strengthened institutions to achieve greater stability. Nepal can draw valuable lessons from such global experiences.
Long-Term Solutions for Lasting Stability
1. Institutional Strengthening
Democratic institutions such as Parliament, the Judiciary, the Anti-Corruption Commission, and the Election Commission must be empowered to function independently, transparently, and effectively.
Germany rebuilt its institutions after the Second World War, which later became pillars of its democratic success.
2. Transparent and Accountable Governance
Decisions regarding appointments, budgeting, and public service delivery must be transparent and answerable to the people.
Singapore is an example of how merit-based governance and accountability can lead to exceptional national progress.
3. Inclusive Dialogue and National Consensus
In a diverse society like Nepal, sustainable stability depends on mutual respect and cooperation among all segments of society—political parties, civil society, youth, women, minority groups, and marginalized communities.
Tunisia successfully drafted a new constitution by involving all major stakeholders after its political upheaval, laying the foundation for democratic stability.
4. Right Leadership and Fair Appointments
Nepal must sincerely practice the principle of placing the right person in the right place at the right time, going beyond political favoritism.
Bhutan, while transitioning to democracy, ensured that capable and ethical individuals were placed in leadership positions.
Japan too, in the post-war period, chose competent administrators to lead the country’s recovery, which resulted in remarkable national development.
Nepal can similarly benefit by prioritizing competence, honesty, and national commitment in leadership and appointments.
The Possible Role of a Symbolic Monarchy
Nepal has a monarchy that spans over 240 years of history. The monarchy once served as a unifying symbol, especially during times of national crisis. While Nepal is now a democratic republic, a respectful national discussion on the potential symbolic role of monarchy—strictly ceremonial and non-political—could be considered if done within the framework of the constitution and public consensus.
Countries like the United Kingdom, Japan, Norway, and Sweden have maintained symbolic monarchies that represent cultural continuity and national unity without interfering in democratic governance.
Nepal may explore a similar path, based on the will of the people and broader dialogue.
The Positive Roles of India and China
Nepal's two immediate neighbors—India and China—are not just large countries; they are potential development partners. With balanced diplomacy and mutual respect, Nepal can benefit from both.
a. India
Nepal and India share open borders, cultural ties, and historical connections. India has supported Nepal in areas such as infrastructure, education, health, and energy.
The India–Bhutan relationship showcases a respectful and mutually beneficial model that Nepal too can adapt with its own unique considerations.
b. China
China has expanded its support in Nepal through infrastructure development, energy projects, and trade facilitation. It is also helping improve Nepal's access to the north, offering an alternative trade route and helping Nepal move toward becoming "land-linked."
Laos and Mongolia have both managed to grow their economies by maintaining balanced relations with China while preserving their sovereignty.
c. Need for Balanced Diplomacy
Nepal must maintain a neutral, independent, and well-calibrated foreign policy, avoiding over-dependence on any one country.
Switzerland is an excellent example of how a small nation can maintain friendly relations with all while preserving its national interest and neutrality.
Nepal as a Bridge Between India and China
As Nepal graduates to a Developing Country in 2026, it is in a unique position to serve as a bridge between India and China—not just geographically, but also in terms of trade, connectivity, dialogue, and culture.
Nepal's Potential Roles:
Transit Hub: Linking South Asia and China through trade routes, railways, and infrastructure.
Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan have played similar roles in connecting East and West via the Silk Road.
Trade Facilitator: Promoting economic collaboration between its neighbors.
Singapore has thrived as a strategic trade link between East and West.
Platform for Dialogue and Cooperation: Acting as a host for multilateral forums, dialogues, and people-to-people exchanges.
Finland has often served as a facilitator in international peace and cooperation.
Spiritual and Cultural Bridge: Being the birthplace of Lord Buddha, Nepal can promote spiritual tourism and peaceful diplomacy.
Conclusion
To move forward on a path of stability and prosperity, Nepal must adopt the following:
Strengthen its democratic institutions
Practice transparency and good governance
Foster inclusive national dialogue
Appoint capable and honest leaders
Respectfully consider symbolic monarchy
Maintain balanced diplomacy with India and China
Strategically position itself as a bridge between South Asia and East Asia
And above all, put national interest first, always and above all else
Nation-building requires not just laws and policies but also vision, unity, self-respect, and long-term thinking. By learning from the experiences of other countries and adapting them wisely, Nepal can move toward a more stable, prosperous, and dignified future.
– Author: Brigadier General Lok Bahadur Thapa Magar (Retired), Nepalese Army
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प्रतिकृया दिनुहोस