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Foreign policy is the principle that guides how a country uses different strategies to steer its relationship with other countries and international organizations. It is also known as an instrument that a state employs for promoting national interest and policy while dealing with the international community. It basically aims at contributing to global peace, harmony and security.  In a globalized world, every country seeks to protect national interest through its foreign policy.

The fundamental objectives of Nepal’s foreign policy are to enhance the dignity of the nation by safeguarding sovereignty, territorial integrity, independence and promoting economic well-being and prosperity of the country. Nepal has been adopting a policy of non-interference, non-violence, peaceful coexistence, mutual cooperation and respect for other countries’ sovereignty. Our foreign policy consists of strategic plans to interact with other countries, which is fundamentally used to achieve national interest. National interest should have three basic components—security, prosperity and social well-being. Some basic principles of Nepal’s foreign policy are mutual respect for each other’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, non-interference in each other’s internal affairs, respect for mutual equality, non-aggression and peaceful settlement of disputes, cooperation for mutual benefits, faith in the chapter of the United Nation and world peace.

Nepal attempted to adjust its foreign policy after the restoration of multiparty democracy in the 1990s. Only after the advent of democracy in 1951 did Nepal’s foreign relations become robust and expanded. Before the political changes of 1951, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) was absent and Nepal’s foreign relations were very limited. 

Foreign policy is a means of statecraft that has become the most important mechanism to defend national interests in this globalized world. Nepal’s foreign policy has remained unchanged despite changes in regimes, constitutions and governments.

In the latter decades, Nepal has gone through several changes and transitions, the traditional practices have given way to new alternatives and the actions in foreign policy decision-making have substantially surged. The issue of a growing number of actors in foreign policy decision-making also calls for a serious overview. Other line ministries and government agencies have become a part of international engagement and a prominent stakeholder in foreign policy and diplomacy. In this context, the most prominent challenges are the lack of coordination among the actors involved along with the need for structures and intuitional changes.

These structural changes pose several challenges to Nepal’s foreign policy behavior. Geopolitical and geo-economic interests of Nepal have increased with the rise of India and China. These challenges and circumstances urge policymakers to induce policy coordination and structural changes to meet the new challenges. Modern foreign policy and diplomacy are experiencing fundamental changes at an unprecedented rate worldwide, affecting the traditional way of diplomacy and decision-making process. 

Nepal’s foreign engagement needs to be made more robust with policy coordination and structural changes to address the changing geopolitics and geo-economic scenario of the country. At this point in time, global power is shifting toward Asia, especially in reference to the rise of China and India. Our ties are heavily southward-oriented, especially toward India and China. So we must promote a sound relationship of trust with both of our immediate neighbors keeping the national interest at the core.

Nepal has been following the principle of non-alignment and panchasheel for a long time. But nowadays, debates among foreign policy experts are centering more and more on redefining our foreign policy. According to these experts, there is an urgent need for Nepal to review and redefine its foreign policy vis-a-vis a changing world order, balance of power and the rise of Asian powers. 

Some contemporary issues like economic diplomacy, development diplomacy, trade diplomacy, cultural diplomacy, public diplomacy and technology diplomacy deserve due priority. Proper coordination is necessary between line ministries and MoFA toward this end.

In the pursuit of global gender equality and women’s empowerment, the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) and the Beijing Platform for Action stand as pivotal achievements

As we delve deeper, however, a critical gap emerges: These frameworks, while commendable, fall short in addressing the distinct challenges faced by women with disabilities. Amid the progress catalyzed by CEDAW and the Beijing Platform, the intricate intersection of gender and disability remains insufficiently attended to. This article unveils the persistent discrimination afflicting women with disabilities, shedding light on the limitations of these foundational documents and advocating fervently for a more comprehensive, inclusive, and intersectional approach.

The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on 18 Dec 1979, has been an international treaty since 3 Sept 1981. However, its 30 articles lack explicit provisions addressing disability-related concerns, despite core principles of non-discrimination and equality. The Beijing Platform for Action outlines 12 critical areas of concern, each with a comprehensive diagnostic assessment and strategic objectives. This framework serves as a roadmap to address gender equality obstacles but falls short in providing explicit provisions for women with disabilities within these areas.

Identifying the gaps

The identification of gaps within these frameworks reveals several key areas where inclusivity and intersectionality fall short. While these foundational documents prioritize the advancement of gender equality, they often overlook the intricate intersections that shape the experiences of women living with disabilities. While Article 14 of CEDAW acknowledges the unique challenges faced by rural women and Article 6 addresses critical issues such as trafficking and exploitation, the concerns specific to women with disabilities are notably absent.

The shortcomings of inclusivity become even more apparent when considering the Beijing Platform for Action. This comprehensive blueprint for women’s empowerment across diverse spheres unfortunately sidelines the concerns of women with disabilities. This exclusion significantly hinders their potential and reinforces their marginalization, impeding the realization of their aspirations.

Despite the emphasis within CEDAW on combating violence against women, a crucial oversight occurs regarding women with disabilities. Their heightened vulnerability and reliance on others often render them more susceptible to various forms of abuse. Additionally, the lack of accessible support services exacerbates their exclusion from protective measures, deepening the divide between them and their peers.

The issue of access to education and employment opportunities is another area where the two frameworks fall short. Both documents emphasize the importance of education and economic empowerment, yet they fail to address the myriad barriers obstructing the path for women with disabilities. The absence of accessible facilities, discriminatory practices and inadequate accommodations significantly hinder their educational and employment pursuits.

Furthermore, the critical matter of reproductive and sexual health services receives insufficient attention within both frameworks, particularly concerning women with disabilities. The limited discussion of these services restricts their autonomy and overall well-being, as they are denied the comprehensive care necessary to make informed choices about their bodies and lives.

Addressing the gaps

To create a more inclusive and equitable framework, several key actions are imperative. Firstly, there is a need to amend existing international frameworks, such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the Beijing Platform for Action. These revisions should explicitly encompass disability-related concerns within their scope.

Secondly, a comprehensive approach demands an intersectional analysis. This entails thorough research and data collection that accurately capture the multifaceted experiences of women with disabilities. Such information is essential for shaping well-informed policy choices and tailoring strategies that cater to the diverse challenges these women face.

Moreover, inclusive participation stands as a cornerstone. Active and meaningful involvement of women with disabilities in the processes of policy formulation, implementation, and assessment is paramount. Their valuable insights are indispensable in the creation of solutions that truly address their needs and experiences.

Equipping officials and organizations with the requisite knowledge is the fourth crucial step. Capacity-building initiatives should be established to enhance their understanding of the intricate interplay between gender and disability. This heightened awareness will contribute to the development of policies and programs that foster inclusivity and address the complexities of this intersection.

The establishment of a robust system for data collection and monitoring is also essential. By tracking the experiences of women with disabilities, progress can be measured, and areas requiring specific attention identified.

Finally, adequate resource allocation is pivotal. Sufficient funding must be directed toward initiatives that concentrate on women with disabilities. This support is instrumental in facilitating research, developing programs, and providing services that effectively tackle the unique challenges arising at the juncture of gender and disability.

To sum up, while CEDAW and the Beijing Platform for Action have paved the way for gender equality advancements, they fall short in addressing challenges faced by women with disabilities. Moving forward, a united international community must commit to transformative change. Revising and revitalizing CEDAW and the Beijing Platform for Action to embrace diversity is paramount. These frameworks should not just reflect aspirations but champion rights, amplify voices, and celebrate achievements.

The author is a writer, researcher and disability rights activist

Yes, beets or beetroots (beta vulgaris), chukandar in Nepali, the humble crimson-colored root vegetable, is touted as a superfood for its nutrient-dense properties. And indeed, they have lived up to the hype.

The expression ‘superfood’ first appeared in the early 20th century as a strategy to market bananas, a daily source of cheap, easily digestible nutrition. In the blink of an eye, the catchphrase went viral; foods got labeled as superfoods, which contained exceptional levels of nutritional density.  

Not a regular item in our everyday meals and readily dismissed by most, the taste of raw beets for some have a delightfully earthy yet sweet flavor, but for the majority, the flavor might smack like dirt. When I first tried it raw, I almost coughed it out, but when I rustled it up as a salad, I even relished it.  

The ruby-colored root vegetable has so overpoweringly red pigment that it can be messy when sliced, reaching virtually everywhere: your hands, tongue, dress, and whatnot. Amusingly, it scared the daylights out of me once when I ate a little too much of it to find my pee turned pink.

Let's dig further and unravel what makes this root veggie bag so much plaudits to hold the coveted superfood status. My research bowled me over when I ran into the health benefits of beets—a mile long. Today, endurance athletes worldwide go nuts about the wonder veggie to pull off, peak energy and stamina. 

Among several power-packed drinks, from citrus fruit juices, banana smoothies, and chocolate milk to peanut butter, beet juice became one of the most sought-after natural energy drinks. World and Olympic athletes alike started guzzling beet juice to enhance their performance. 

Today, many elite athletes are swearing by the endurance-enhancing power of beet juice with a high concentration of nitrates that enables the blood vessels to dilate and heighten the blood flow, preparing athletes to use oxygen more efficiently to achieve cracking energy and stamina. 

From the World Champion marathoner, Paula Radcliff, the fastest female marathoner of all time (2003 to 2019), to legends like seven consecutive Tour de France Champion, Lance Armstrong, and the 2009 UCI Track-cycling world winner, Taylor Carpenter Phinney, to the Victor of six Paralympic gold medals, six World Championship, David Weir—you won't believe it—all drank beet juice.

Beets work wonders for athletes to boost their performance. But what makes beets deserve a worthy spot in our meal plan? Simply because the wonder veggie packs a chock full of vitamins, minerals, and a rich source of antioxidants, viz., vitamins C, B, magnesium, potassium, copper, iron, and manganese essential to retain efficient metabolism and healthy body cells. Beetroot packs the heaviest punch among vegetables high in nitrates, such as carrots, spinach, and radish.

Shapes up blood pressure

Evidence-based studies have shown beets, due to their high concentration of nitrates, help reduce elevated blood pressure, which causes a significant risk factor for heart disease. 

St Bartholomew's Hospital, based in London, following a 10-year study, concluded that beets with a high level of dietary nitrite that convert into nitric oxide could be as potent as clinical drugs in reducing blood pressure. Their findings showed that the nitric compound helped relax and dilate blood vessels, enabling better oxygen-rich blood and efficient circulation.

Enhances cardiovascular health     

Research carried out by medical scientists contends the fiber content in beets helps to cut down on triglyceride and bad cholesterol, LDL, levels. Both complications invite heart-related problems, like cardiac disease, heart attacks, and stroke.

Further, betaine (plant alkaloid) and folate (a natural form of vitamin B9) in the beets forfend our arteries from atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries and blockage), averting high concentration of homocysteine (an amino acid produced in the body) to a threatening degree. Potassium content in beets follows to prevent the muscles in the walls of the arteries and veins from tightening and narrowing.

Glycemic index-friendly

Scientific studies have shown that beetroot may aid the body's response to insulin sensitivity. Low carbohydrate, substantial fiber content, and high nitrate levels in the root-vegetable are critical factors in lowering insulin resistance. 

Also, a rich source of manganese—involved in the production of insulin—a regular intake of beets helps stabilize blood sugar levels and check sudden spikes. "Raw red beetroot consumption for eight weeks in T2DM patients had beneficial impacts on cognitive function, glucose metabolism, and other metabolic markers." (Source: NIH)

In 2021, a study revealed that participants who ate 100 g (about ⅔ cup) of raw beets daily for eight weeks showed improved cognitive function, glucose metabolism, and other metabolic markers.

Supports brain health

With age, our bodies slow down in producing nitric oxide, which enables our brains to function efficiently. So does our brain's energy metabolism and neuron activity decline. With its high nitrite content, regular beet intake helps generate adequate nitric oxide to compensate for this reduction and helps prevent "brain fades."

Similarly, mental and cognitive functions, too, have to face degeneration with coming of age, which runs the risk of neurodegenerative disorders like dementia. The nitrates in beets promote the dilation of blood vessels, increasing the blood flow to the brain to lessen the negative impact on mental and cognitive faculties like memory power, decision-making, and concentration. 

Supports the immune system 

With rich fiber content, beets enhance the growth of healthy bacteria in our gut. The build-up of good bacteria (microbes) in the digestive system fosters the innate and adaptive immune systems, defending the body against infection and protecting the body's cells. Regular consumption of beets further improves digestion and lowers the risk of chronic constipation. Better immune function leads to cutting down on the likelihood of chronic diseases.

USDA (US Department of Agriculture) reported that a routine intake of a beet-rich diet, for its nutrients like vitamin C, K, A, folate, manganese, iron, and phytochemicals, imparts immune support to ward off chronic ailments. 

Anti-inflammatory 

Research has linked chronic inflammation in the body to several diseases. Beets, rich in betalains and nitrates, help reduce inflammation by removing harmful compounds from the bloodstream and work wonders against inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or fibromyalgia.

A detox for our body 

Our livers are responsible for detoxifying toxins in our body's metabolism. The betaine in beets helps the liver to detoxify unwanted toxic deposits.

Fends off cancers 

Research work and studies followed through at Howard University, USA, made a startling find that a routine diet of beets, for its betalain compound content, promotes our immune body cells and enzymes, which inhibit carcinogen formation to keep at bay cancers of the lungs, skin, and colon.

Consume the greens, too. 

A word of advice: Do not look down upon the beet greens and toss them into the trash can. The beet greens, too, serve as a powerhouse of nutrients such as Vitamins A, C, and B6, followed by calcium, zinc, iron, and antioxidants. You can cook it like any other green leafy vegetable. 

Hang on! There is more: Beets help alleviate conditions like anemia, fatigue, Alzheimer's disease, osteoporosis, and many more.  

Caveat

Beets contain oxalates (natural compounds found in vegetables, fruits, nuts, and grains), which, when in excess, can cause body fluid to crystallize. Given that, persons with kidney or gallbladder problems should avoid beetroots.

Working the beets into our meal plan is worth its weight in gold. So, when you go shopping for vegetables next time, see that your shopping list occupies beets as a high priority. Thus, exercising moderation in eating beets is essential. Strike a balance. Be mindful that eating nutritious food alone does not work; incorporate a regular workout regimen to maintain a healthy body.

Beets, if eaten raw, promise the best results. You can shred it and add it to a salad or soup, or blend it in a blender with apple and carrot; season it with freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of salt. Voila, you don't have to look further for another energizing drink! The bottom line is you just can't beat the beets!

Disclaimer: The views expressed in the above text are solely research-based, not medical advice; the author solicits readers' discretion and cross-references or consulting a healthcare provider for further confirmation. 

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If there were beliefs that Donald Trump could feel weak and powerless because of the many charges he has faced, then he has certainly proved everyone wrong. Overturning the mugshot released recently into a political campaign shows he’s still a topic of interest for people around the world.

The historic mugshot where he has reflected his personality as an angry man thinking of a revenge soon turned into a different merchandise to promote his election campaign. What is ironic yet creative for his campaign is to use the same picture of him as a protagonist who can make America great again.

He is back on Twitter/X, the platform he overused to spread hatred and misinformation to the extent that he had to be banned, posting the same mugshot with the message ‘election interference’ and ‘never surrender’. It has been viewed over 240 million times and has 1.6 million likes. It is interesting to note that his ultra-loyal fans and voters overlook all the allegations Trump has faced and instead promote him as the fearless leader who can transform America. 

The difference between most American leaders and Trump is that he lacks diplomacy, which his followers admire as being a straightforward person. And despite 91 felony charges against him, Trump has been able to use his victim card so well to convince his party and followers that they dismiss what he did on January 6, 2021.

When he was in power, he banned Muslims from certain countries from visiting the US. His relationship with the ‘rocket man’ or the North Korean leader Kim Jong-un became controversial, the decision to separate families at the US-Mexico border was widely condemned, and the revelation of paying hush money to a porn star put a question mark on his character. During the pandemic, he made it clear that he did not believe in scientists. Same is his opinion on climate change. He paved the way for white supremacy to surface and divide people. Thanks to him, the world supported the Black Lives Matter campaign that began later.

As a Nepali, I sometimes try to see if there are similarities between him and our Nepali leaders. Our current Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal once publicly took responsibility for the 5000 lives lost in the Maoist rebellion. As with powerful leaders, no action was taken against him. The transitional justice system has been mocked as the truth and reconciliation commission never gets a shape.  However, the difference between us and them is that they were able to bring the former President to a local jail where he surrendered too whereas our high-level leaders have mostly been protected.  

I also find Trump’s vocabularies to be similar with Dharan Mayor Harka Sampang’s. Both use/d indecent language to vent out on social media, and glorify their arrogance. He too is on a mission to make Dharan great again but has already faced backlash. Prohibitory orders to keep Dharan safe and calm are not a good sign of what could lie ahead in maintaining religious solidarity. He should be mindful before it’s too late.

Meanwhile, as a distant observer, I feel that Trump has sharply divided the American people. There are Americans who think the image of their country has tarnished while others think he is better than his contemporaries. As a leading Republican Party candidate, Trump definitely has challenges to face, not just with the indictments but also to be selected as the final candidate. However, the way he is trying to create his image of a fearless leader ready to take revenge has ignited curiosity to what happens next. As the largest economy of the world and a superpower, it is all but natural for the world to be interested in learning political developments in the United States. And the world is amazed to see how his popularity does not decline.