Nepal, once hailed for its historic transition from a monarchy to a democratic republic, is now grappling with an alarming wave of democracy fatigue. This phenomenon—characterized by public disillusionment, political apathy, and growing nostalgia for monarchy—is threatening the very foundations of the country’s democratic aspirations. The promise of a “New Nepal,” filled with inclusion, stability, and progress, seems increasingly distant for many citizens.
Chronic Political Instability
Since the monarchy was abolished in 2008, Nepal has experienced relentless political upheaval. In just 17 years, the nation has cycled through 14 different governments. No prime minister has been able to complete a full term, severely undermining political Democracy and Nepal’s Future continuity and public confidence. The Kathmandu Post highlights how frequent power shifts fueled by opportunistic alliances have paralyzed policymaking.
This chronic instability isn’t just political theater—it has real consequences. As governance wavers, developmental projects stall, foreign investment declines, and critical reforms remain unaddressed. The growing sense that no party or leader is capable of providing long-term solutions is pushing citizens to question the value of their hard-won democracy.
Here’s a more detailed look at chronic political instability:
Characteristics:
- Frequent changes in government:This can be due to a variety of factors, including elections, coups, or the resignation of government officials.
- Weak institutions:This includes a lack of effective rule of law, corruption, and a weak civil service.
- Limited citizen participation:This can manifest as a lack of political representation, a suppression of dissenting voices, or a lack of trust in government.
Consequences:
- Economic hardship: Political instability can deter investment, disrupt trade, and lead to a decline in economic growth.
- Social unrest: This can manifest as protests, civil unrest, or even armed conflict.
- Weakening of democratic institutions: This can lead to a decline in democratic norms and practices, and a shift towards authoritarianism.
Endemic Corruption and Governance Failures
Another driving force behind Nepal’s democracy fatigue is rampant corruption. From inflated infrastructure contracts to nepotistic appointments, governance failures have become endemic. Power-sharing deals, known as “bhagbanda,” often prioritize party interests over public welfare, fostering an environment where favoritism and misallocation of democratic state resources flourish.
In this article from East Asia Forum, analysts argue that lack of institutional accountability has eroded trust in government, making it nearly impossible for democratic norms to take root. The persistent failure to hold corrupt officials accountable only deepens public cynicism.
Elaboration:
- Corruption’s Impact on Governance:Corruption erodes public trust in government, making it difficult to implement effective policies. It can lead to resource misallocation, where public funds are diverted away from essential services and towards private interests. This can hinder economic development and exacerbate social inequalities.
- Examples of Governance Failures:
- Misuse of Public Funds: Corruption can involve the misappropriation of public funds, leading to wasted resources and a lack of accountability.
- Influence of Powerful Actors: Powerful individuals or groups can exert undue influence on government decision-making, leading to policies that benefit their interests rather than the public good.
- Weakening of Democratic Institutions: Corruption can undermine democratic institutions by allowing for the manipulation of elections, the suppression of dissent, and the erosion of the rule of law.
- The Cycle of Corruption and Governance Failures:Corruption and governance failures often reinforce each other in a vicious cycle. Corruption can lead to a weakening of state institutions, making it easier for corruption to spread. This can further erode public trust and lead to more corruption, creating a cycle of instability.
- Addressing the Problem:Combating endemic corruption requires a multi-pronged approach, including:
- Strengthening Governance: Strengthening the rule of law, improving transparency, and increasing accountability are crucial for combating corruption.
- Promoting Good Governance: Promoting good governance principles, such as decentralization, participation, and accountability, can help to build trust in government and reduce the opportunities for corruption.
- Engaging with Civil Society: Engaging civil society organizations and the media in efforts to combat corruption can help to increase transparency and hold powerful actors accountable.
- Addressing Root Causes: Addressing the root causes of corruption, such as inequality and poverty, can help to reduce the incentives for corruption.
Economic Stagnation and Widening Inequality
Democracy and Nepal’s sluggish economic growth compound the democratic crisis. Job creation remains abysmally low, forcing millions to seek employment abroad. Though remittances contribute significantly to national GDP, they haven’t translated into tangible improvements in daily life. Public services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure lag far behind the needs of the population.
Despite moderate GDP growth, economic disparity continues to widen. As highlighted in this Diplomat article, a large section of the population feels disconnected from the supposed economic progress. The lack of equitable development fuels resentment, especially among youth who feel abandoned by their leaders.
Here’s a more detailed look at the relationship:
- Stagnation Disproportionately Impacts Vulnerable Groups:When the economy slows down, the most vulnerable populations, including low-skilled workers, minorities, and those living in poverty, are often the first to lose jobs or experience wage stagnation.
- Wider Income and Wealth Gaps:Stagnation can lead to a decline in real wages for many, while the wealthiest individuals may be less affected, potentially widening the income and wealth gap.
- Increased Inequality in the Workplace:Stagnation can also lead to greater inequality within workplaces, as companies may be less willing to invest in training and development, leading to a larger gap in skills and earning potential between different employee groups.
- Impact on Social Mobility:Stagnation and rising inequality can make it more difficult for individuals to climb the economic ladder, as opportunities for upward mobility become limited.
- Government Policies and Income Redistribution:Some argue that governments play a role in mitigating inequality through income redistribution policies like social safety nets, but the effectiveness of these policies can vary.
- Long-Term Economic Consequences:If economic stagnation is prolonged and inequality continues to widen, it can lead to social unrest and political instability.
In essence, economic stagnation creates a situation where the benefits of growth are concentrated among a select few, while the negative impacts are felt most acutely by those already struggling economically.
Unmet Promises of Inclusion and Representation
Nepal’s 2015 constitution marked a major milestone with its commitment to federalism, secularism, and inclusion. However, the execution of these promises has been inconsistent at best. Marginalized communities—including Madhesis, Dalits, women, and indigenous groups—often find themselves excluded from key political processes.
As noted by The Kathmandu Post, demands for better representation remain largely unfulfilled. The centralization of power and tokenistic inclusion have only served to amplify frustration among these groups.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
- Definition of DEI:DEI encompasses a range of policies and programs aimed at promoting the representation and participation of diverse individuals, considering factors like age, race, ethnicity, abilities, disabilities, genders, religions, cultures, and sexual orientations.
- The Promise:Organizations often make promises related to DEI, such as increasing representation in hiring, leadership roles, and decision-making processes.
- The Reality:Despite these promises, inequities persist, and representation of diverse groups may remain low, particularly in certain sectors or at higher levels.
- Reasons for Unmet Promises:Several factors can contribute to unmet promises of DEI, including:
- Structural inequalities: Deep-seated biases and systemic barriers can limit opportunities for marginalized groups.
- Lack of accountability: Organizations may not have robust mechanisms to measure and hold themselves accountable for DEI progress.
- Lack of genuine commitment: DEI initiatives may be treated as a check-the-box exercise rather than a genuine commitment to change.
- Focus on diversity without inclusion: Organizations may focus solely on increasing diversity without ensuring that diverse individuals are truly included and feel valued.
For deeper insight into issues of social justice and representation, readers may also explore The Informed Gazette’s article on identity politics in Nepal.
Populism and Royal Nostalgia on the Rise
The vacuum created by disillusionment with mainstream politics is now being filled by populist figures and renewed monarchist sentiment. The rise of independents like Balendra Shah and TV personality Rabi Lamichhane signals a clear rejection of traditional political elites.
Interestingly, the revival of monarchist movements is less about actual loyalty to the crown and more a reflection of discontent with the present system. As noted in Hindustan Times, some Nepalis now view the monarchy as a symbol of order and national unity, despite its past shortcomings.
Here’s a more detailed look at how these concepts intersect:
1. Nostalgia as a Populist Tool:
- Idealized Past:Populist leaders often present a vision of a past that was superior, cleaner, and more authentic than the present.
- “Us vs. Them”:This narrative creates a clear divide between the “pure people” and the corrupt elites who have allegedly betrayed them.
- Promise of Restoration:Populists promise to restore the idealized past, taking back control from the elites and returning it to the people.
- Example:The Turkish Justice and Development Party (AKP) uses nostalgia for the Ottoman Empire to create a sense of national pride and a vision of “New Turkey,” according to Cambridge University Press & Assessment.
2. Royal Nostalgia:
- Monarchies as Symbols:Monarchies, with their long history and tradition, can be powerful symbols of national identity and continuity.
- Appealing to Tradition:Royal nostalgia can evoke a sense of longing for a more stable and ordered past, often associated with the monarchy.
- Example:In some countries, the monarchy continues to be a symbol of national unity and tradition, even in modern republics.
3. Interplay between Populism and Royal Nostalgia:
- Shared Themes:Both populist rhetoric and royal nostalgia can tap into a sense of longing for a more authentic and traditional past.
- Potential for Conflict:In some cases, royal nostalgia can be used by populists to further their own agenda, while in other cases, it can be seen as a threat to democratic institutions.
- Example:The rise of populist movements in some countries has coincided with a resurgence of royal nostalgia, as some individuals and groups seek to restore or re-establish the monarchy.
4. Impact on Politics:
- Mobilizing Support:Nostalgia, particularly royal nostalgia, can be a powerful tool for mobilizing support and creating a sense of community.
- Disrupting the Status Quo:Nostalgic narratives can challenge the established order and create a sense of dissatisfaction with the present.
- Shaping Public Discourse:Nostalgic rhetoric can shape public discourse and influence how people view their own history and future.
In conclusion, both populism and royal nostalgia can be seen as forms of nostalgic rhetoric that tap into a sense of longing for a past that is often idealized. These narratives can be powerful tools for mobilizing support, challenging the status quo, and shaping public discourse, according to a book chapter on nostalgia and populism from Cambridge University Press & Assessment.
For a local perspective on the return of royalist sentiment, see The Informed Gazette’s coverage on youth-led pro-monarchy rallies.
Public Sentiment and the Way Forward
The perception that democracy has failed to deliver on its promises is now widespread. Citizens express skepticism that change is possible under the current political arrangement. However, all hope is not lost. Experts emphasize that structural reform, equitable economic policies, and meaningful inclusion are still viable paths forward.
Civil society, grassroots organizations, and youth activists continue to play a critical role in pushing for accountability. Their growing influence could help reshape Nepal’s democratic future—if the political elite are willing to listen.
Elaboration:
- Importance of Public Sentiment:Public sentiment is a critical factor in democratic processes. It can be used to identify issues requiring political action, hold politicians accountable, and shape policy formulation. As Abraham Lincoln famously stated, “Public sentiment is everything. With public sentiment, nothing can fail. Without it, nothing can succeed,”.
- Measuring Public Sentiment:Public opinion polls, social media analysis, and other data sources can be used to measure public sentiment. For example, Event Registry allows for real-time tracking of sentiment, while social media data can provide valuable insights for public health policymakers.
- Public Sentiment and Government Action:Governments can use public sentiment data to tailor policies and interventions, enhancing effectiveness and compliance. In the case of public emergencies, understanding public sentiment can help governments avoid “dereliction of duty” accusations and maintain a positive image, ultimately contributing to social stability.
- Challenges in Assessing Public Sentiment:It can be difficult to access publicly available data and research infrastructure, hindering evidence-based policy-making. Additionally, the complexity of online sentiment analysis and the need for skilled technical support can present challenges.
- The Way Forward:Leveraging technology like sentiment analysis and building strong communication channels can help governments better understand and respond to public sentiment. Investing in research and data infrastructure, as well as promoting transparency and public engagement, can also contribute to a more informed and responsive government.
In Chalnakhel, Dakshinkali, understanding and responding to public sentiment is particularly important given the recent developments and the need to build a more resilient community.
For those interested in the potential for civic renewal, The Informed Gazette explores the role of youth activism in Nepal’s democracy.
Conclusion
Nepal’s democracy fatigue is not rooted in opposition to democratic ideals but in frustration with how those ideals have been implemented—or ignored. Without decisive action, the country risks deeper political polarization and the erosion of public trust. Yet with the right reforms and leadership, there is still hope to reinvigorate Nepal’s democratic journey.
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