In a region of shrinking democracy, Nepal's elections still matter
Summary
Nepal's upcoming elections serve as a crucial test amidst regional trends of shrinking democracy, military interference, and dynastic politics in neighboring countries.
Key Points
- Nepal's elections are significant in a region where democracy is declining due to military control, dynastic rule, and authoritarianism in neighboring countries.
- Pakistan exemplifies the dangers of military dominance in politics, leading to terrorism and hollowed civilian institutions.
- Bangladesh and India show how dynastic politics and erosion of internal democracy within parties threaten genuine democratic competition.
- Nepal must ensure timely, competitive, and credible elections while strengthening internal party democracy to resist regional democratic backsliding.
