Political Economy of Social Change and Development in Nepal

Based on research in Nepal since 2001, this book argues that, alongside political transition, there are clear evidence of a qualitative "step-change" in the way Nepali economy and society is organized that is beyond the continual or "normal" processes of incremental change. Many existing social norms and forms are being challenged and many are being reconstructed. The combination (and sometimes the competition) of social and political mobilisations under the guises of Maoist insurgency, ethnic and regional social movements, in parallel with the development of formal and non-formal education and opening up of the public sphere(s), has resulted in a historical transformation of consciousness. Awareness of rights and gender has increased massively, the collective agency of women and oppressed and marginalized groups has escalated and has resulted in durable changes in how individuals, groups, and institutions interrelate. Despite widespread concerns of poor governance, corruption and financial scandals at national and local levels, electoral participation and public debate on politics remains impressive.