Nepal's Continuing Quest for Federalism and Peace

Nepal is currently experiencing perhaps one of the most turbulent phases in its contemporary political history. In 2008, the 240-year-old institution of monarchy—for long seen as a symbol of unity, integrity, and sovereignty—was abolished and the nation was declared a republic, resting on the three pillars of freedom, secularism and pluralism. This paper analyses the debate surrounding federal restructuring in Nepal and the position taken by various political stakeholders. The paper looks at various historical factors that have influenced this issue and discusses possible future scenarios. It concludes by arguing that an early political consensus on federalism is imperative; otherwise, the country may slip into greater ethnic conflict.