Role of local government to combat global pandemic: a case ofBirendranagar Municipality

Kamal Raj Lamsal

doi:10.64423/arpa.v32i2.12

Authors

Kamal Raj Lamsal Assistant Professor (Conflict and Peace Studies), Mid-West University Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.64423/arpa.v32i2.12

Keywords:

COVID-19, Federalism, Governance, and Local Levels in Nepal

Abstract

Nepal experienced power devolution as the country entered the federal system via the new constitution in 2015. The main goal of federalism is to restructure the state as people aspired to various social movements and a decade-long internal armed conflict. Although federalism is a very new concept in Nepal and is unfamiliar, it has great consequences. One of the major implications of power devolution has been observed during the COVID-19 pandemic. The activism of local governments with the engagement of community members in Nepal has proven effective in order to controlCOVID-19. This study aimed to analyze the activities of local levels, particularly Birendranagar Municipality, to prevent and combat the global pandemic. This article employs interviews, focused group discussions, observation of holding centers, and analyses the policies and activities of Birendranagar Municipality related to combating COVID-19. The main objective of this study is to analyze the effectiveness of local levels and their receptiveness to global issues, and thus, the importance of power devolution and local administration to maintain peace and prosperity. The main finding is that actions undertaken at the local level are more effective and prompt than other forms of government and their agencies.

Author Biography

Kamal Raj Lamsal, Assistant Professor (Conflict and Peace Studies), Mid-West University

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