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Nepal’s strategic location between two major powers, India and China, makes it a crucial player in the geopolitical dynamics of the region and beyond. The country’s location between the two rising, competing and conflicting powers of Asia (China and India) makes it important for Western powers to strike a strategic balancing act in the region. In this situation, Nepal’s strategic location between two of the emerging countries of Asia makes it imperative for the US to launch a regional maneuver. 

In addition, the US and India maintain strategic relationships in the Asia-Pacific region and Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD). Global power is shifting toward the Asia-Pacific region with strategic bipolarity between the US and China creating several implications for the global order. These developments indicate that the US-led ‘unipolar world’ may not last last long, making way for a multipolar world with China as one of the power centers. 
In recent years, increased cooperation between India and the US through Washington, DC-led projects like the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) is being seen as a counter to China’s BRI in Nepal. China’s debt-based approach to BRI raises concern about the impact of it on the stability and sovereignty of recipient nations, including Nepal. At the same time, MCC has made significant progress within a short span of time, particularly in Nepal’s energy sector, whereas none of the Chinese projects that Nepal signed under BRI in 2017 have materialized/progressed. 

The US believes China’s BRI project is not just an economic initiative but also a geopolitical one and is part of China’s border strategy to expand as well as deepen its global influence. It believes that one of the primary goals of BRI is to export Chinese development and influence, particularly in the developing world. The US-China bipolar strategic rivalry shows that both powers are in a race to influence each other’s ‘regions’. In this situation, the US strategic entry into Nepal and intense rivalry between BRI and MCC projects are reflective of these two countries’ growing competition in world politics.

China views a growing American role in Nepal’s development in recent years as a threat to its presence in the region. Historically, Nepal’s strategic location has shaped Beijing’s delicate balancing act. 

On its part, Nepal presents a range of opportunities for both India and the US, including ensuring stability and security, facilitating economic growth and promoting democratic values. Both countries have also collaborated on advancing Nepal’s legal system, protecting human rights, promoting gender equality and countering Chinese misinformation. Thus, strategic cooperation between India and the US has fostered sufficient trust to see no significant opposition from India regarding the US-led diplomatic efforts in Nepal. All in all, shared interests of India and the US in Nepal provide a strong foundation for cooperation and coordination between the parties involved. 

China has come up with three new initiatives—Global Security Initiative (GSI), Global Development Initiative (GDI) and Global Civilizational Initiative (GCI), which, per Chinese officials, fall under the BRI umbrella. These initiatives, according to the officials, aim to eliminate the root cause of international conflicts, encourage joint international efforts to bring more stability, improve global security governance and promote durable peace and development in the world. But Nepal has reportedly conveyed its unwillingness to join GSI due to risks of data security, unequal distribution of benefits, looming economic dependence, transparency and debt risks. China’s BRI was also seen optimistically initially, but there has been no progress in the past five years even after signing of an MoU with the strategic community seeing a risky amount of debt and a way for Beijing to use its debt leverage to pursue ambitious strategic plans in Nepal. Though 35 projects were originally identified under BRI, Nepal later brought them down to nine. Still, no government in Nepal has committed to moving ahead with these projects due to “concerns over unclear financial terms of Chinese loans”. 

According to diplomats, the Nepal-US relationship is entering a new phase. The US has three distinct interests in Nepal: Political, economic and strategic/military. In terms of strategy, Nepal’s geopolitical location as a gateway for emerging global powers India and China has shaped US interest in Nepal. Different aid programs and a series of high-level visits in recent years are a clear-enough indication of increasing American engagement in Nepal.
Given this context, Nepal must pragmatically balance competing objectives of India, China and the US to advance national interest and priorities. But our governments have largely failed to take timely decisions and initiatives for national development as well as economic upliftment.

The US’ shifting policy toward Nepal is understood as part of the current global power transition. In Nepal, the US-China rivalry has become more visible over the last few years, presenting a great challenge of taking both MCC and BRI together, and balancing the interest of prevailing superpower and emerging superpowers.

Views are personal

Gender inequality has been a pervasive issue across the world for centuries, and Nepal is no exception. While significant strides have been made in recent years to empower women in the professional world, there remains a glaring disconnect between advocating for gender equality in public spaces and the reality of gender roles within home. Nepal, like many other societies, faces a paradox where women who advocate for gender equality at work often find themselves subjected to traditional gender roles at home. This dichotomy not only undermines their efforts but also perpetuates the cycle of gender inequality. Women continue to face societal pressures to conform to traditional gender norms, despite their achievements in various professional spheres. It is high time we align our actions with our words and truly address gender inequality at its core.

In recent years, Nepal has witnessed an encouraging shift toward gender equality in professional environments. Female participation in panels and conferences has increased, enabling diverse perspectives that were once underrepresented. The appointment of female leaders in organizations has increased, marking progress toward breaking the glass ceiling and providing women with opportunities to lead and thrive in previously male-dominated sectors. Furthermore, the rise of gender specialists and activists has led to more discussions around gender dynamics in the workplace, raising awareness of the issues women face and creating spaces to dismantle patriarchal systems. This has led to a more inclusive environment where women can voice their concerns and aspirations freely.

The importance of fostering gender equality at home cannot be overstated. Charity begins at home, so does gender equality. If women themselves are not treated equally within their families, it sends mixed signals and perpetuates a culture where equality is merely a façade. The burden of managing both a successful career and fulfilling traditional roles can be overwhelming for women, and it hinders their ability to fully participate in public life.

Though social norms may be evolving, many married women, even those who have achieved success in their careers find themselves facing societal expectations to be the ‘ideal wife,’ ‘obedient daughter-in-law,’ and ‘dutiful mother.’ Being unmarried by choice is also a challenge for women who become the focus of gossip and sexual harassment. These ingrained expectations place a heavy burden on women, potentially stifling their personal growth and perpetuating the cycle of gender inequality. But men too face pressure to marry and though they enjoy more freedom the pressure of being the breadwinner can also stifle their personal ambitions.

Many women who feel empowered and confident, advocating for themselves and fellow women, face a reality where traditional gender norms dominate their domestic life when they return home. This dissonance between their professional and personal lives reflects the underlying issue we need to address: Gender equality must be an all-encompassing ideology rather than just a professional front.

It is time to bridge the gap between advocating for gender equality in public and private spheres. Encouraging female participation in the professional world is just the beginning. To truly practice what we preach, we need to address the root causes of gender inequality, which are often deeply embedded in cultural norms and beliefs.#

To challenge traditional gender roles, education and awareness are vital. How can girls develop confidence in schools or boys change their behavior, when patriarchal and stereotypical messages continue to be disseminated?  By definition, patriarchy is a system where powerful older men control women as well as younger men (sons, brothers, men from lower castes). Overcoming these challenges involves not only revising textbooks to eliminate gender biases but also implementing comprehensive awareness programs that promote gender equality in schools. By incorporating inclusive education strategies and instilling a sense of empowerment, schools can play a pivotal role in nurturing the self-confidence of girls and help boys develop a different masculinity, paving the way for a more egalitarian and empowered generation.

Breaking away from traditional gender roles starts within the family. Parents should encourage their children, regardless of gender, to pursue their passions and interests. It is challenging for girls to pursue their dreams, when they are subjected to humiliating practices like chaupadi, which is prevalent in Western Nepal, but also practiced in milder forms in urban middle class in Kathmandu.

Both men and women should be encouraged to take equal responsibility for domestic duties and childcare. This division of household chores based on availability rather than gender is a progressive step toward achieving true gender equality at home. Why do girls help their mothers in household chores when boys play sports in the street? Why do women prepare breakfast in the morning, while men indulge in fitness and sports at the same time? When men share the responsibilities of running a household, women can focus on their professional aspirations without compromising their personal lives. This not only empowers women, sets an example for the next generation, but also helps fathers and husbands to challenge ingrained gender norms. Gender equality is not just a women’s issue. Men must be active allies in the fight for equality. By challenging toxic masculinity and supporting gender equality initiatives, men can help reshape societal norms and create a more inclusive environment for everyone.

Nepal has made commendable progress in promoting gender equality in the professional world, with more women breaking barriers and assuming leadership roles. Despite positive changes in professional settings, it is essential to acknowledge that progress remains incomplete if women's identity in the household continues to be limited by constraining gender norms. However, for true gender equality to be achieved, we must challenge the traditional gender roles that persist within our own homes. By educating and empowering both men and women to break free from restrictive norms, we can ensure that our actions align with our words and build a more equitable and inclusive society for all. It is only when women and men experience gender equality within their homes that the fight for gender equality in the professional world gains true momentum. Only when we practice what we preach, both in public and private spheres, will we achieve the lasting change we aspire to see in the world. This consistency in practice is necessary to break free from the cycle of inequality and foster a society where everyone is empowered to achieve their full potential, irrespective of their gender.

The Raisina Dialogue 2024, held in New Delhi, indeed reflected India's commitment to engaging with the international community through diplomatic means. The three-day event served as a platform for India to convey its perspective on global issues and showcase its dedication to finding diplomatic solutions to world crises.

The theme of CHATURANGA, derived from the Sanskrit word meaning four components—Conflict, Contest, Cooperate, and Create—reflects the complexity of contemporary world politics. It acknowledges the existing realities of conflict and contest in a changing geopolitical order. The emphasis, however, is on transforming these challenges into opportunities for cooperation and creation.

In the context of global affairs, acknowledging the presence of conflicts and contests is a realistic approach. However, the overarching goal is to transcend these challenges and move toward collaboration and innovation. By fostering cooperation, nations can address shared issues and create a more stable and prosperous world.

Through such global dialogue, India demonstrates its commitment to being an active participant in shaping the global narrative. By emphasizing the importance of diplomacy and negotiation, India seeks to contribute to the development of solutions that benefit the international community as a whole. The event serves as a testament to India's diplomatic prowess and its desire to play a constructive role on the world stage.

Participating in the 2024 Raisina Dialogue has provided me with insights into the underlying messages conveyed by the Indian government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Modi’s popularity on the global stage, surpassing other world leaders, adds significance to the messages emanating from New Delhi.

In tune with Foreign Minister S Jaishankar, the Indian leadership has communicated a crucial point to major world powers—that dealing effectively with the complexities of the present global landscape is imperative for progress. Jaishankar emphasizes the four dimensions of conflict, contest, cooperate and create, asserting that these elements are driving the games that nations play in today’s geopolitical arena. The Raisina Dialogue, as a platform, is dedicated to deliberating on the risks, challenges, choices and outcomes associated with these dimensions.

Participants might question how fruitful the panels were in addressing the pressing issues of our time and whether the discussions were fair and comprehensive. These aspects can be separately evaluated and discussed.

Through latest global events such as the successful hosting of G20 and a strong presence in global forums, India has tried to give major three messages to the world.

Firstly, India has not merely emerged; it has already established itself as a significant global player. In 2010, during his visit to India, former US President Barack Obama remarked, “India is not rising; India has risen,” emphasizing the nation’s substantial progress. Over the past 14 years, India has become the world’s fifth-largest economy, surpassing Japan.

Secondly, India functions as a bridge and a global balancer. The strategic partnership between India and the US has grown significantly, aligning their approaches on various global and regional issues. Simultaneously, India assumes a leadership role in ‘Global South,’ unifying nations in the southern region to amplify their collective voice. According to Jaishankar, the developed Western world often overlooks the challenges facing the Global South, and India actively advocates for their concerns.

India holds a prominent position in BRICS, a bloc that aims to introduce its currency to reduce reliance on the US dollar. BRICS nations have initiated trade transactions in local currencies, challenging the dominance of the American dollar. Additionally, India is a member of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD), alongside the US, Japan and Australia, formed to address and manage China’s ascent as a formidable global power.

While India collaborates in regional and global blocs to counterbalance China’s influence, it simultaneously maintains issue-based relations with China. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping initiated informal summits, recognizing the significance of their bilateral relations.

India’s role in the Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Palestine conflict underscores its autonomy in decision-making. India has strongly asserted its right to determine its policies and actions in these situations, rejecting external suggestions. In West Asian and Eurasian conflicts, India has never sought advice from the West, reinforcing its commitment to independent decision-making.

In essence, India’s global positioning involves being a recognized economic powerhouse, a diplomatic bridge and a strategic balancer, playing a pivotal role in various international forums while maintaining autonomy in addressing regional and global challenges.

Thirdly, India serves as a global public space, exemplified by the inclusive approach taken during the Raisina Dialogue. Leaders from various continents were invited to engage in discussions on global and regional themes. India’s democratic foreign policy and status as the world’s largest liberal democracy has provided a common platform for individuals, regardless of their ideologies, economic status, or political systems, to openly express their perspectives. This inclusivity extends beyond heads of states, prime ministers and foreign ministers to encompass business leaders, thinkers, policy commentators and strategic analysts, who were given the opportunity to interact openly. Thematic sessions and business forums held in different corners of the grand venue facilitated both focused discussions and sideline meetings.

As the upcoming elections draw closer, Prime Minister Modi has been projected as a leader of global stature. The forums like the Raisina Dialogue have contributed to establishing Modi as a globally influential figure, garnering popularity not only within India but also worldwide.

However, it is crucial for Prime Minister Modi and Indian leaders to demonstrate their global exposure and stature in their interactions with neighboring countries. While the ‘Neighborhood First’ policy is in place, there is a need for it to be more action-oriented rather than limited to rhetoric. Jaishankar’s foreign policy approach is realistic, prioritizing India’s national interests. While it is understandable that every sovereign nation should safeguard its national interest, larger powers and economies should adopt a more accommodative stance, especially when developmental issues are at stake. Striking a balance between national interests and regional cooperation is key to fostering positive relationships with neighboring countries.

In the heart of the United Arab Emirates, the COP28 outcomes echoed a resounding message of progress and inclusivity in the fight against climate change. COP28 Outcomes Briefing event organized by Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy held in Abu Dhabi on March 6 was a pivotal event as the UAE demonstrated leadership and commitment to the principles of the Paris Agreement.

The event aimed to delve into the historic outcomes of COP28, providing a comprehensive update on global climate diplomacy, along with an exploration of the agreements and initiatives that resulted from the conference.

For the first time in COP history, crucial decisions were made on the inaugural day, underlining the UAE’s proactive approach to addressing the pressing challenges of climate change. Despite initial skepticism about the role of oil-producing nations, the UAE proved that sustainable development can coexist with responsible resource management.

At the core of COP28 was a clear recognition of the outcomes, achieved through inclusivity and dialogue. By ensuring that all voices, especially those of developing nations, were heard, the UAE fostered a sense of collective ownership and accountability.

One of the most significant achievements of COP28 was the launch of the Global Decarburization Accelerator and the Oil and Gas Charter. Leading oil companies such as ADNOC, NOC, and ARAMCO and many pledged to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, signaling a transformative shift towards renewable energy.

Furthermore, COP28 saw unprecedented collaboration with developing countries, as evidenced by the Global Cooling Pledge signed by 69 nations. The UAE’s commitment to financing climate action was underscored by contributions from oil companies, with each pledging $25m, complemented by a $100m commitment from the UAE itself.

Crucially, COP28 emphasized the importance of translating financial promises into tangible action on the ground. Developing countries were urged to grab the opportunities presented by the UAE’s initiatives, including the establishment of a Youth Champion for Climate.

COP28 also reaffirmed the significance of trade and negotiations in shaping global climate policy. Major decisions were mandated during the conference, highlighting the UAE’s pivotal role in driving consensus and collaboration among nations.

COP28 stands as a testament to the UAE’s unwavering dedication to climate action and sustainability. By championing inclusivity, innovation, and responsible resource management, the UAE has set a new standard for global climate leadership. As the world looks towards a more sustainable future, the outcomes of COP28 serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come.