Reflections from the Democracy Audit in Nepal

Hemanta Karmacharya, 43 years, journalist and editor, Nepalgunj

“Somebody was thinking that media in Nepal is free. But legally we are not; we do not yet have full rights to information. I liked that we had to reach a mutual understanding, because it forced the discussion ahead and some would have to re-think and change their minds. “

Lila Supa, Dhankuta

“Normally these meetings feel long and I fall asleep. This one was very different and it was very nice to discuss.” 

Mohan Rai filming the debate in Taulihawa. Photo: Line Wolf Nielsen

Mohan Rai, 27 years, facilitator of the Democracy audit in Nepal and information assistant at MS Nepal 

“I was positively surprised when people from backward communities in the Far Western hills expressed their views on democracy and rights. Their level of understanding was much higher than I expected. I think the events of the last few years have helped people gain a better understanding of democratic values and individual rights.”

Uma Thapa Magar. Photo: Line Wolf Nielsen

Uma Thapa Magar, 22, sociology student, Nepalgunj

“I realized why democracy was sabotaged. We ourselves are the main reason. We sould be aware of mistakes and implement some suggestions which came up. The practice used to be that marginalized was never consulted. The State should stop that and give permanent place for that in the future.”

Suresh Paudel, 37 years, lawyer, Nepalgunj

“This audit came too late. We should have had it two years ago when democracy was misused and we had no freedom. Then the discussion would have been of more value. Now the situation is better and moving ahead.”

Sabna Batterai, 32 years, social worker, Nepalgunj

“I knew about democracy and human rights from before, but this programme made me more aware on the principles. To me it seems as if reducing poverty is paramount. Poverty is the root cause of most problems and this audit gave us a chance to bring forward ideas on how to reduce poverty. Consulting the concerned groups right from the beginning is very important.”

Kiran Koirala. Photo: Line Wolf Nielsen

Kiran Koirala, 50, social worker, Nepalgunj

The very word democracy audit impressed me and I learned some about the weaknesses of democracy. There is a lack of de-centralization and this is the reason for many problems in Nepal and I found the questions on de-centralization most interesting. It is very important for local development. If people are not involved democracy will never work.”