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Nepal recently experienced a simultaneous occurrence of both drought and flooding, underscoring the urgent need to address the impacts of climate change, particularly in relation to loss and damage (L&D). In this context, ApEx recently organized a roundtable involving climate stakeholders to delve into topics such as L&D, disaster risk reduction, government initiatives, partnerships for addressing L&D, and the role of youth in climate awareness and action. Excerpts:

Embrace climate change as an opportunity

Manjeet Dhakal, climate change expert

Historically, our focus has been primarily on the effects and impacts of climate change, often as a means to attract foreign aid. Yet, we have not been educated about an alternative perspective—a viewpoint that regards climate change as not only a challenge but also an avenue for economic benefits. Fortunately, recent years have witnessed increased dialogue, discussions, media coverage, and research on various aspects of climate change, which is undoubtedly a positive shift.

In Nepal, the cornerstones of our economy—agriculture, remittances, tourism, and hydropower—have all borne the brunt of climate change. While the effects on agriculture, tourism, and hydropower are widely recognized, we have not been adequately informed about its potential impact on remittances. These remittances contribute roughly 23 percent to our Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Notably, around 80 percent of our migrant labor force heads to the Middle East and Malaysia, regions experiencing significant temperature increases compared to the global average. Consequently, our assessment of loss and damage should not be limited to our borders but should extend to encompass consequences beyond our political boundaries.

Necessity of scientific research

Pradip Khatiwada, disaster risk management expert

Numerous scientific studies have examined rainfall patterns and the global temperature rise, both contributing factors to instances of loss and damage. L&D is commonly categorized as economic, affecting livelihoods and property, and non-economic, encompassing issues like loss of life, health problems, psychological distress, displacement challenges, as well as damage to biodiversity and cultural heritage. While economic L&D is frequently discussed, the non-economic aspect has not received adequate attention. Therefore, conducting scientific research to evaluate our circumstances is essential. This research aids in anticipating and mitigating disaster impacts, bolstering our self-reliance. Additionally, communicating research findings effectively to vulnerable communities minimizes disaster-related risks.

While a 1.5°C temperature increase might not significantly affect certain countries, it’s a significant concern for Nepal due to its susceptibility to snowmelt-triggered flash floods and related problems. Unlike the sturdy mountains in Europe, our mountainous regions are delicate and vulnerable, warranting our concern.

Educate local communities on climate change

Bharati Pathak, community forest expert

Indigenous communities have played a pivotal role in revitalizing community forests nationwide, contributing significantly to mitigating climate change effects, including loss and damage. However, these communities possess only a basic understanding of climate change consequences such as floods, landslides, and droughts. The discourse on this matter has largely been confined to urban centers and the privileged class, leaving those directly dealing with climate change aftermath with limited awareness. Thus, extending knowledge-sharing initiatives to rural regions is imperative.

While we have actively participated in 27 Conferences of Parties (COP), do local communities truly comprehend the nature of COP, its discussions, and the resulting agreements? The absence of involvement from those at the forefront of climate change impacts casts uncertainty on our ability to achieve climate objectives.

In an environment where information is scarce, misinformation and disinformation thrive. This is evident in local communities’ understanding of carbon trading, where they sought compensation for only a few trees.

Collaborative efforts for climate action a must

Hari Prasad Sharma, Under secretary, Ministry of Forest and Environment

Nepal’s vulnerability to climate change must be comprehensively assessed, including the degree, severity, and exposure of its impact. With about 68 percent of our land featuring slopes greater than 60°, our susceptibility to climate effects is heightened. Moreover, roughly 30 percent of our land lies at altitudes exceeding 2,500 meters, amplifying its sensitivity in sustaining livelihoods. Thus, our geographic circumstances render us particularly vulnerable.

Though climate change policies exist, practical execution is paramount. Policies often resemble wish lists; our focus should shift towards translating them into actionable steps through meticulous implementation. Given the global move towards cooperative decision-making, addressing climate change necessitates a collective approach. Embracing contemporary methods is crucial to effectively combat this issue.

Allocating resources to educate and foster climate change understanding from a young age is essential, as the youth represent future catalysts for change.

Climate change transcends data

Shrichchha Pradhan, climate activist and Miss Nepal World 2023

Nepal’s cultural practices, adaptability to environmental challenges, and community-driven sustainability efforts offer valuable lessons for the global community. By studying and adopting these practices, societies worldwide can take meaningful strides toward addressing climate change, embracing zero-waste lifestyles, and nurturing sustainability. Entrepreneurship within the climate change realm presents an opportunity yielding multiple benefits, including educating the youth on climate intricacies, promoting sustainable practices, and zero-waste principles.

Understanding climate change extends beyond data; it holds a deep emotional dimension impacting local communities, especially in remote areas. These communities daily bear the brunt of climate change, experiencing its far-reaching consequences in ways statistics cannot capture. Their close connection with the environment has traditionally granted them a profound understanding of nature’s patterns. However, recent unpredictable changes from climate change have disrupted this traditional knowledge. Thus, engaging with these communities and providing targeted education about changing consequences is crucial.

Loss and damage as a moral imperative

Adelle Thomas, lead author of IPCC Reports

Loss and damage (L&D) lacks a universally agreed definition within the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), signifying different meanings for different groups. Nonetheless, L&D generally refers to negative climate change impacts that occur despite mitigation and adaptation efforts.

L&D is often categorized as economic or non-economic. Economic L&D entails quantifiable negative impacts, such as rebuilding infrastructure post-floods or agricultural revenue loss due to drought. Non-economic L&D includes impacts challenging to assign monetary values, like trauma from tropical cyclones or community loss due to displacement.

Both extreme events (heat waves, storms) and slow-onset events (sea-level rise, ocean acidification) contribute to loss and damage.

The Press Council Nepal has written to the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation over the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal’s act of seeking a written clarification from Annapurna Media Network (AMN) regarding news reports published in Annapurna Post daily. 

The letter argues that CAAN’s move contradicts the principles of press freedom. The meeting of the Code of Conduct Monitoring subcommittee of the council held on Aug 22 has urged the ministry to take necessary action against CAAN for the protection of press freedom, reads the letter.

Editorial freedom within the media pertains to the independence of publishers in making decisions devoid of external interference. This encompasses the autonomy of editors to determine content and coverage. The letter underlines that seeking explanations from the publisher while intertwining their other business activities and neglecting proper legal procedures amounts to an assault on editorial freedom. The Press Council Nepal has expressed serious concern over this matter.

The letter asserts that checking the authenticity of news falls under the jurisdiction of Press Council Nepal, not CAAN. The sub-committee’s meeting decided to delve into this matter further by consulting former chairs of the council and former presidents of the Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ).

Nepal’s challenging geographical isolation poses significant difficulties in accessing healthcare and delivering sustenance. Air services become indispensable for these essential needs. However, CAAN introduced a policy to suspend air services in remote districts after 12 pm starting July 31. This decision had severe repercussions in remote and mountainous regions of Nepal. Regrettably, due to the absence of air services, four children lost their lives in the remote areas of Karnali province as they couldn’t receive timely medical care due to CAAN's new policy.

After Annapurna Post, a sister publication of ApEx, highlighted the hardships facing people living in far-flung areas, the issue garnered considerable attention. Various media outlets, including BBC, Kantipur, and Radio Nepal, also covered similar stories, underscoring the urgency of government intervention to restore essential air services in remote regions of the country.

Despite appeals from the Chief Minister of Karnali province, the federal Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, political leaders and local representatives, CAAN chose not to lift air service restrictions. Instead, it targeted the media for exposing what was perceived as a misguided and callous decision.

In its letter, CAAN has accused AMN of ‘repeatedly disseminating news, analyses, and commentaries that severely jeopardize flight safety’. The letter further highlights that despite Capt Rameshwar Thapa’s position as the head of an airline company responsible for ensuring flight safety, he appears to have misused his publishing authority through his media, engaging in activities that spread misinformation and rumors.

Earlier, the FNJ and other press unions such as Nepal Press Union, Press Chautari Nepal, Socialist Press Organization Nepal, Forum of Nepalese Journalist and Madhesi Journalist Society Nepal warned CAAN to immediately withdraw its letter seeking clarification from AMN as the move is beyond its jurisdiction.

The decision of the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) to seek clarification over news published in Annapurna Post daily is an attack on freedom of speech and expression, experts have said. 

They are of the view that CAAN, a regulatory body of Nepal’s civil aviation sector, is not authorized to seek clarification on the issues related to news stories. Of late, Post and its sister publications had been publishing  a series of stories regarding the new rules of CAAN that are discouraging the aviation sector.  

Balkrishna Basnet, chairperson of Press Council Nepal, says it is the council’s jurisdiction to examine the authenticity of news, not CAAN’s. “The letter issued to Annapurna Media Network by CAAN seeking clarification about news stories is unacceptable to the media fraternity.”

There is a constitutional and legal provision enabling responses to media reports. If such responses are not published, individuals can lodge complaints with the Press Council Nepal. 

 “The Press Council will carefully examine and inquire into instances where the media’s published materials do not meet expectations,” says Basnet. 

Editorial freedom in media pertains to the autonomy of publishers in making decisions free from external interference. This encompasses editors’ independence to determine content and coverage. An integral facet of editorial independence is its role to act as a barrier against undue influence, be it from owners or external parties, when it comes to editorial choices and what gets published or broadcast. This becomes particularly relevant when media outlets publish content that may not align with advertisers’ preferences or owners’ viewpoints.

It is a well-known fact that Nepal’s geographical remoteness poses extreme challenges for accessing health services and transporting food. They have no choice but to rely on air services for these essential services. 

But CAAN has enforced a policy suspending air services in remote districts after 12 pm starting July 31. This decision has had serious repercussions in remote and mountainous regions of Nepal. Tragically, due to the absence of air services, four children in remote regions of Karnali province recently lost their lives. They could not get timely medical attention due to the new CAAN policy.

After Annapurna Post, a sister publication of ApEx, reported about the hardship faced by the people living in remote hinterlands of Nepal, the issue garnered significant attention. Media outlets, such as BBC, Kantipur, and Radio Nepal, also covered similar news stories, emphasizing the need for prompt government intervention to resume essential air services in remote regions of the country.

Despite appeals from the chief minister of Karnali province, the federal minister of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, political leaders, and local representatives, CAAN Director General Pradeep Adhikari decided not to lift the air service restrictions. Instead, the CAAN decided to go against the media for exposing his misguided and callous decision.

The clarification letter states that AMN has repeatedly disseminated news, analyses, and comments that gravely undermine flight safety. The letter further points out that despite Capt Thapa’s role as the head of an airline company responsible for upholding flight safety, he seems to have misused his publishing rights through his media outlet, engaging in misleading and rumor-spreading activities. 

Senior advocate Bijay Gupta says that the news covered by the Annapurna Post was about the effects of flight suspension. “It’s what the media should do.”

These actions, as stated in the letter, conflict with the Nepal Civil Aviation Authority Act of 2053 BS and the associated regulations, requirements, manuals, and other standards outlined by the authority.

But experts maintain that while CAAN has the capacity to regulate airspace, it has no right to encroach on editorial freedom.

Bipul Pokharel, president of Federation of Nepalese Journalists, emphasizes that the media conveys information in alignment with their principles, benefiting from editorial independence and direction. “Individuals without relevant involvement should not become the focus of clarification or measures based on edited content,” he adds.

Clause (b) of section 7 in the Press Council Act of 2048 BS stipulates that the journalist code of conduct of 2073 BS, endorsed by the Federation of Nepalese Journalists, emphasizes the importance of upholding editorial freedom. According to this provision, the code establishes that editors bear ultimate responsibility and control over news collection, editing, production, presentation, and distribution. Aligned with the global principle of editorial independence, the code underscores that media outlets and journalists must have the freedom to gather, publish, and express information, opinions, and perspectives without external pressure or influence.

As pointed out by legal experts, Capt Thapa holds leadership roles within three distinct organizations, each governed by separate laws. Hence, it is inappropriate for CAAN to conflate Thapa’s roles and seek an explanation for news published in his newspaper while linking it to his involvement with Simrik Air. Capt Thapa’s roles in Simrik and Annapurna are separate, and experts believe that CAAN Director General Adhikari has committed a constitutional and legal misstep.

The authority to write and publish news and editorials rests with editors, not investors. If dissatisfied with news coverage, individuals or organizations concerned should approach the relevant journalist or editor to present a rebuttal, or file a complaint with the Press Council Nepal.

Simrik Air functions as a separate company. “In accordance with the Companies Act of 2063, individuals are legally permitted to establish a company to achieve objectives specified in the memorandum of association, either independently or collectively,” says senior lawyer Jagadish Dahal. Pursuant to the Companies Act, Capt Thapa assumed the position of chair for Simrik Air, he says that there is another distinct law that governs the selection of the Airline Operators Association's president. 

“As CAAN DG Adhikari has committed a series of unconstitutional moves, he should step down from the post on an ethical ground,” says Dahal. “According to the Publication and Printing Act, Capt Thapa undertook the role of the AMN chair as a mere investor, meaning he does not exert editorial control over published content.” 

Dahal adds CAAN cannot address the chairperson of different organizations in the same way, though the individual may be the same. “There is no legal provision for CAAN to interfere.”

The FNJ has also warned the Civil Aviation Authority to immediately withdraw the clarification sought over the news published in the Annapurna Post daily. The FNJ concluded that asking for clarification in an illegal way is objectionable and against the constitutional concept of press freedom, reads a letter issued by FNJ General Secretary Roshan Puri on Aug 21.

The federation has also warned the CAAN to withdraw the clarification asked in an illegal way by respecting the constitutionally-guaranteed rights to expression and press freedom.

Balendra Shah, the mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC), is reluctant to allow street vendors to carry on with their businesses as usual. In contrast, the neighboring Lalitpur Metropolitan City has effectively managed street vendors by allocating specific time slots for their business activities. According to a study conducted by the Center for Informal Economy and Hope for Change, Nepal, a staggering 89 percent of street vendors in Kathmandu are currently relying on loans due to the actions taken by the mayor. Surprisingly, the federal parliament has remained silent on this issue.

Pratik Ghimire of ApEx talked with whips of the three largest political parties in the parliament to understand their take on this matter related to the informal economy.

Sushila Thing
Whip, Nepali Congress

Kathmandu Metropolitan City functions as an independent governing body with the authority to carry out its own actions. The central government or federal parliament lacks the power to issue commands to them. This matter falls outside our jurisdiction. Nonetheless, due to its significant impact on numerous individuals, this matter deserves attention within the parliament. Regrettably, no political parties have brought up this concern, and even the Nepali Congress has not addressed it in its internal parliamentary party meetings. But I now intend to present this issue during our upcoming meeting.

Mahesh Bartaula
Whip, CPN-UML

When individuals find themselves caught between government regulations, authorities often resort to exerting their power over them. But this is the case of livelihood. In this scenario, the government has a responsibility to assume the role of a guardian for its citizens, particularly those residing below the poverty line and struggling to earn a living. Kathmandu Metropolitan City must provide viable options for these individuals. The CPN-UML, serving as the main opposition party, represents the interests of the general populace and will raise this issue in parliament.

Rupa Sosi Chaudhary
Whip, CPN (Maoist Center)

The issue hasn’t been brought up in the parliament to date. This matter encompasses two primary aspects. Firstly, if our aim is to create an aesthetically pleasing and technologically advanced city, we must adhere to a well-defined strategy. For that, we can’t allow arbitrary business activities. But, on the other hand, considering that street vendors have been an integral part of our community for a long time, it’s neither feasible nor advisable to abruptly stop them from doing business as usual. We must, instead, offer them proper alternatives. I will urge my party and colleagues to collaborate with local units, including the KMC, to address this issue.

The Nepali Congress has called on the main opposition CPN-UML to put an end to the parliamentary deadlock. 

Issuing a press statement, the NC said in light of the disasters caused by monsoon rains, it was crucial to address and discuss the matter in the Parliament. The party said it was irresponsible on the part of the UML to obstruct the House in a crisis situation.

Political stability is vital for the nation’s best interests, the party said in its statement, underscoring the need for effective efforts toward stability. 

Earlier, a meeting of the NC resolved to initiate discussions with both the ruling parties and other political factions, including the main opposition, to break the current parliamentary impasse.

Additionally, the meeting expressed concerns about a 100-kg illegal consignment of gold making it through the Tribhuvan International Airport despite the presence of various government agencies at the airport. The party urged the government to take necessary measures to control such illicit activities and called for an impartial investigation. It expressed confidence in the capabilities of the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) of Nepal Police to probe the case. 

The NC also urged the government to address budgetary shortcomings, rectify reduced capital expenditure and effectively implement the current fiscal year’s budget.

CPN-UML Chair KP Sharma Oli has advised Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal to step down given his ‘poor showing’. 

Organizing a press conference on Sunday, Oli and other leaders criticized the government over ‘ineffective handling’ of important matters such as the Lalita Niwas land-grab, the 100-kg gold smuggling case and obstructions in the Parliament.

Chair Oli expressed surprise that the Home Minister and the Finance Minister had not quit thus far despite their incompetencies. The party leading the government has prevented the (main) opposition from airing their views during parliamentary sessions, he said, “Whenever the opposition attempts to address the assembly, members of the ruling party promptly rise and vociferously intervene, causing disruptions. They thus thwart our efforts to facilitate a smooth functioning of the Parliament, leaving us with no option but to obstruct the House.”

The government’s shortcomings extend beyond the legislative arena, Oli maintained, “Even in terms of public service delivery, the government has faltered in producing tangible outcomes.”

“Shouldn’t we be attentive to people’s problems? Amid floods and landslides, the government’s response seems lackluster. Farmers are standing in queues to acquire a mere five kilograms of fertilizer, burdened by exorbitant costs,” he said.

Chair Oli also accused the government of being afraid to form a high-level committee for investigating the 100-kg gold case, insisting that the probe committee will be instrumental in finding whether the government is complicit in the case. 

Rajendra Gautam, head of the UML’s Publicity Department, sought the arrest of former prime ministers Madhav Kumar Nepal and Baburam Bhattarai in connection with the Lalita Niwas land-grab, citing the recent Supreme Court order directing top decision-makers to bring them under investigation. “Despite the court’s directive, police have not even questioned them (the two ex-PMs) regarding their involvement in the Lalita Niwas scandal, where they are alleged to have played a significant role through multiple cabinet decisions.”

Gautam expressed doubts about the Home Ministry’s departments conducting impartial investigations, reiterating that the UML believes an independent high-level investigation committee should be established to examine the gold case. “During investigations, the government has treated the ruling parties and the opposition differently,” he said, noting that individuals close to the ruling parties have not been thoroughly investigated.

At the program, the Pushpa Kamal Dahal-led government came under the main opposition’s fire for displaying arrogance through ‘vengeful moves against the opposition, dissemination of false information and attempts to conceal wrongdoings’.

The party contended that the present government is manipulating tax rates to favor specific business interests, allowing certain entrepreneurs to exploit state resources through extensive contracts.

But political analyst Krishna Pokharel says that the press briefing appeared to predominantly reflect UML Chair Oli’s sense of frustration. “It appears that this frustration stems from his party’s extended period of being out of power,” he says the conference mainly consisted of negative remarks rather than substantive discussions.

Remember the South Side Wine Bar we reviewed in May? François Driard, the owner of the wine bar, extended an invitation to us to experience his culinary venture, Emilio’s Pizza in Bansbari, Kathmandu. On a rainy day, we ventured there, discovering the unique delight of savoring piping-hot food in the rain.

At Emilio’s Pizza, you can choose between indoor and outdoor seating arrangements. The indoor area exudes a cozy living room atmosphere, with comfortable couches that you can plonk into and chill. Alternatively, the outdoor space boasts a green haven with pebble flooring. Opting for the outdoor setup, we found ourselves shielded from the rain by a recently installed translucent roof.

Amid a diverse selection of pizzas, including Napolitana, Margherita, Melanzana, Pepperoni, Chorizo, and Calzone, we set our sights on their distinctive Signature Pizzas. This particular assortment featured options like Smoky Chicken, Burrata, and Shiitake among others. We decided to sample the Smoky Chicken and Burrata offerings as they recommended.

Our initial serving was the Smoky Chicken pizza. Its ultra-thin and tender crust, with a crispy edge, was complemented by the luscious cheese on top, enhancing its overall flavor.

The next delight to grace our table was the Burrata pizza, an artful assembly featuring tomato sauce, Burrata (an Italian cheese crafted from mozzarella and cream), and arugula (known as rocket leaves). There was a mild tanginess to it due to the Burrata, along with a touch of bitterness from the arugula. The crust mirrored the Smoky Chicken variant, maintaining its consistent texture.

In addition to pizza, we were introduced to an array of Ravioli pastas, boasting fillings of buffalo, mushroom, and crab. Our preference led us to the crab-filled option. Its unique seafood essence offered a distinct flavor experience, slightly unfamiliar to Nepali palates.

We also recommend Flammekueche, a delicacy composed of thinly rolled bread dough fashioned into a rectangular shape, brimming with finely diced onion fillings that contributed to its delectable crispiness.

Apparently, the bread, dough, and cheese are made from scratch.

We suggest planning a visit during the afternoon hours to relish the fare in a tranquil setting and steer clear of bustling crowds. For an elevated culinary experience, consider pairing your meal with their fine selection of wines, as the place’s roots trace back to a wine bar that subsequently evolved into a remarkable pizza haven.

Their Specials

Signature Pizza

Ravioli Pasta

Flammekueche

Location: Bansbari

Meal for two: Rs 2,500 

Opening hours: 12:00 pm–9:00 pm

Contact: 9823711002

Online payment: Accepted

Parking: Available

The Asian markets remain key players in the upward-trending US student visa totals. Seven of the top eight countries that saw the largest increase in student visas issued between 2021 and 2022 were Asian, according to ApplyBoard data, a Canada-based international recruitment platform.

Uzbekistan is at the top of this list for the first time, while Nepal, Bangladesh, and Vietnam show continued growth in visa issuance, according to the report. The US Department of State issued over 411,000 F-1 student visas in 2022, up 15 percent from 2021. US student visa approval rates fell to 65 percent likely due to the application volume from several emerging markets in the period. South Asian countries continued to drive growth in the US, led by India with over 115,000 student visas issued.

The tally of visas issued so far this year has passed 392,000. 

Prior to 2020, the only large destination market that had Nepal on its radar was Australia, where it ranked a top-three source market for Australian institutions. The US was the most popular northern hemisphere destination of Nepali students in 2022, beating the likes of Canada, which experienced a spike in Nepali students in 2022, even after Australia’s border reopened, according to the report.