From Nepal’s floods to the world order: Reading Shah’s first UN address
Summary
Prime Minister Balendra Shah used his first UN General Assembly address to frame Nepal’s recent floods as a warning about climate change, Himalayan fragility and the failings of the international order. He called for a Himalayan Resilience Mechanism with India and China, more grant-based support for vulnerable countries, and a more just multilateral system.
Key Points
- Balendra Shah centered his first UN General Assembly speech on the Bhotekoshi-Trishuli floods and their links to climate change.
- He urged Nepal, India and China to create a Himalayan Resilience Mechanism for shared data, early warnings and disaster coordination.
- Shah argued that vulnerable countries should receive grant-based climate support rather than being pushed into more borrowing.
- He broadened the speech into a critique of the world order, saying the international system prioritizes war logistics over human security and livelihoods.
