In disaster’s wake, Nepal government allegedly rushes climate policy for COP 31
Summary
Nepal’s government has faced criticism for hurriedly drafting a new national climate policy after the Bhotekoshi flood and ahead of COP 31. Stakeholders want broader consultation and stronger provisions on climate justice, disaster risk reduction, climate finance, and community rights.
Key Points
- The Ministry of Agriculture, Forest and Environment has circulated a draft National Climate Policy–2083 and invited comments, but stakeholders say it was rushed and insufficiently consulted.
- Civil society groups and climate experts argue the policy must better address rising temperatures, glacier changes, floods, landslides, drought, food security, and disaster preparedness.
- The government says it held extensive consultations across provinces and will revise the draft after reviewing stakeholder feedback.
- Stakeholders have formed a seven-member task force to consolidate recommendations and submit them to the government.
