Authors:Raju Aryal Pages: 1 - 16 Abstract: Conflict is a pervasive feature of human interaction, emerging from unmet needs like security and recognition, often fueling disputes over resources and power. Negotiation is widely recognized as an effective tool for conflict resolution, yet its success varies, prompting scrutiny of its ethical dimensions. This paper aims to explore the role of ethics in conflict negotiation, seeking to understand how ethical principles enhance sustainability, justice, and inclusion in peace processes, and to propose a synthesis of realist and idealist approaches for enduring resolutions. Employing a qualitative, exploratory approach, the study conducts a narrative review of secondary sources, including scholarly articles and philosophical texts, accessed via desktop research. Thematic synthesis is to justify key ethical elements influencing negotiation outcomes. The realism offers a pragmatic negotiation framework, addressing procedural needs and power dynamics, but lacks depth for lasting peace without ethical grounding. Idealism, emphasizing moral values, complements this by fostering sustainability, justice, and inclusion as sufficient conditions. The ethical leadership mitigates conflict recurrence by utilizing the ethics in negotiation and decision making. A balanced integration of realist procedure and idealist ethics, guided by skilled negotiators, is essential for equitable, sustainable peace. This study provides a conceptual framework, underscoring ethics as a cornerstone of effective conflict negotiation, with implications for future research and practice. PubDate: 2025-04-22 DOI: 10.3126/japfcsc.v8i1.77598 Issue No:Vol. 8, No. 1 (2025)
Authors:Dipak Raj Lamichhane Pages: 17 - 49 Abstract: Geo-economics integrates economic policies with political and geographical strategies to achieve national objectives. This study aims to evaluate Nepal’s geo-economics dynamics compared to India, the USA, China, SAARC, East Asia and Pacific, and Europe and Central Asia regions by using independent sample t-test to compare the selected geo-economics variables like external debt, foreign direct investment, personal remittances, economic growth, and per capita income. Countries use economic tools as carrots and sticks to get others do what they want, signifying the role of geo-economics for national economic security. Based on secondary data since 1995, the analysis reveals the significant differences in Nepal’s economic performance, especially in gross fixed capital formation and economic growth, leading to increased dependency on trade and remittance inflows. The study highlights the growing external debt and its potential to limit economic freedom and undermine national sovereignty. Nepal’s weaker economic growth and current account balance are similar to India, but its per capita GDP growth lags behind neighboring economies due to historical macroeconomic challenges. The research concludes that economic strength directly influences national economic security, with international politics and geography shaping Nepal’s geo-economics sovereignty. PubDate: 2025-04-22 DOI: 10.3126/japfcsc.v8i1.77599 Issue No:Vol. 8, No. 1 (2025)
Authors:Buddha Shrestha, Basanta Raj Adhikari Pages: 50 - 73 Abstract: Nepal’s geographical and geological conditions, intensified by climate change, render it susceptible to frequent and severe natural hazards, leading to numerous cascading disasters that cause significant loss of life and economic damage yearly. Notwithstanding attempts to enhance disaster preparedness and response, current systems frequently fail to cope with the intricacies of managing complex disaster scenarios. The study, utilizing qualitative methods such as a comprehensive literature review, content analysis of existing laws, regulations, and policies, as well as interviews with key informants, concludes that a robust mechanism, specifically an Incident Command System, is essential for effective national response. This system offers a standardized, hierarchical framework that unifies personnel, facilities, equipment, and communications, enhancing coordination and efficiency in disaster response efforts. The system prioritizes standardized terminology, a feasible span of control, and thorough resource management, facilitating seamless collaboration among all responding agencies. The lack of a command structure results in coordination challenges, information deficiencies, and ineffective resource distribution during emergencies. PubDate: 2025-04-22 DOI: 10.3126/japfcsc.v8i1.77600 Issue No:Vol. 8, No. 1 (2025)
Authors:Prem Raj Khanal Pages: 74 - 95 Abstract: Economic diplomacy emphasizes the significance of global economic issues like trade, investment and finance, which has been employed in various forms within foreign policy directives of states. The subject is relevant as the Nepali government has been prescribing greater priority to economic diplomacy, seen within the several periodic plans that the paper has analyzed. The primary objective of the study is to identify the development of the idea through several foreign policy doctrines in Nepal’s history, as it progressed from a monarchy to a federal republic, ascertaining both the growing usage of the term and its relevance in policy mechanisms, and the evolving functions of state representatives. A qualitative method has been employed that utilizes an analytical approach when discerning the different dimensions of economic diplomacy in Nepal’s foreign policy. Focusing primarily on a rigorous review of literature, and also through content analysis of official state documents, the study has simultaneously assessed the perceptions of intellectuals and policy practitioners. This paper has found that historically economic interests have in many pivotal cases driven Nepal’s foreign policy agendas in its immediate neighborhood, post-unification, and also later when it expanded its presence in the globalized world order. However, in contemporary diplomatic practices, while Nepal has made several strides in carving economic diplomacy as a cornerstone of its foreign policy agenda, political transitions and inadequate incorporation of long-standing recommendations from stakeholders, coupled with lagging growth remain as significant challenges, which require further contemplation. PubDate: 2025-04-22 DOI: 10.3126/japfcsc.v8i1.77601 Issue No:Vol. 8, No. 1 (2025)
Authors:Prakash Bista Pages: 96 - 112 Abstract: Before Prithvi Narayan Shah, the King of Gorkha, found out the possibilities of solidifying Gorkha kingdom, Nepal was divided into many smaller states. Although his statecraft shows his strategic acumen in winning and consolidating states to formally make a unified Nepal there is a gap in academia about the the source of the strategies applied by him.This paper has examined the unification strategy and statecraft of Prithvi Narayan Shah, the founder of modern Nepal, through the lens of Kautilya’s ancient wisdom portrayed in the Arthashastra and seeks to uncover the possible influence of Kautilyan principles on his strategies. This qualitative research design based on secondary sources explored the historical context of Prithvi Narayan Shah’s reign and the political landscape of 18th-century Nepal. It argues that Prithvi Narayan Shah’s methods of diplomacy, military conquests, and internal administration resembles key aspects of Kautilya’s teachings provided in Arthashastra specifically the Mandala Theory as a defense strategy. The paper based on exploratory research design with comparative study of Kautilya’s philosophy and Prithvi Narayan Shah’s strategies has found out that there are tactical similarities with Kautilya’s ideas and Prithvi Narayan Shah’s approach during the unification. PubDate: 2025-04-22 DOI: 10.3126/japfcsc.v8i1.77602 Issue No:Vol. 8, No. 1 (2025)
Authors:Sajin Kunwar Pages: 113 - 135 Abstract: This article illustrates the concept of irrigation conflict and its resolution practices in the Khageri irrigation project that lies in the Chitwan district of Nepal. The author collected data from the informants of the study area who were farmers, members of water user associations, civil society, and local government officials. Some issues of conflict while managing the irrigation project were the denial of riparian rights, resource rights dilemma, water scarcity, human encroachment of the canal, park control, legal restrictions and raising water fees, called ‘pani pot’ in its colloquial term. The resolution of such conflict, as per the findings of this paper, reflects the importance of co-management and cooperation among all the users. Some elderly farmers act as a mediator to resolve the conflicting issues. There were some farmers who adjudicate cases of conflict for the local administration and police station. Author highlighted the game theory model that is effective for the wise use of natural resources in general and irrigation management in particular. PubDate: 2025-04-22 DOI: 10.3126/japfcsc.v8i1.77603 Issue No:Vol. 8, No. 1 (2025)
Authors:Bishnu Musikhwal Pages: 136 - 160 Abstract: Armed Police Force, Nepal demonstrates a strong commitment to ethical standards for human rights protection, as evidenced by the implementation of a zero-tolerance policy toward human rights violations, sexual and gender-based violence, corruption, and the adoption of national and international human rights instruments. This study analyzes the role of APF, Nepal in upholding ethical standards for human rights protection and intends to evaluate effective strategies for promoting ethical conduct and human rights within its operational framework. To achieve this, a qualitative case study approach with a descriptive research design has been employed, involving interviews with six key informants to explore ethical policing and human rights issues. Findings reveal that ethical standards are deeply embedded in APF’s operations, ensuring accountability, transparency, and respect for human rights. By implementing human rights training, community engagement initiatives, and modern policing technologies, APF, Nepal fosters public trust and ensures ethical, professional, and legally compliant security operations.The introduction of body-worn cameras, non-lethal weapons, and scenario-based ethical training enhances responsible policing while minimizing excessive force. By strengthening ethical policing practices, APF, Nepal ensures fairness, public confidence, and adherence to human rights frameworks, reinforcing its role as a responsible security force committed to protecting both national security and human dignity which ultimately supports in achieving national aspiration of “Prosperous Nepal, Happy Nepali.” PubDate: 2025-04-22 DOI: 10.3126/japfcsc.v8i1.77604 Issue No:Vol. 8, No. 1 (2025)
Authors:Kishor Adhikari, Dinesh Chandra Devkota Pages: 161 - 172 Abstract: This study examines the predictors of Environmental Protection and Disaster Management (EPDM) capacity within local governments in Nepal, using the Local Government Institutional Capacity Self-Assessment (LISA) framework developed by the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration. The LISA framework assesses local government capacity across ten domains. The study uses secondary data from the LISA framework, analyzing scores from 544 local bodies. The reliability analysis of the framework resulted in a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.905, indicating a high internal consistency. A linear regression model identified Physical Infrastructure, Social Inclusion, and Collaboration and Cooperation as statistically significant predictors of EPDM capacity, explaining 52% of the variance. These findings underscore the importance of these three areas in building resilience within local governments in Nepal. The study underlines the importance of comprehensive capacity building, whereby improvements in one domain contribute to others, and suggests that targeted investments in infrastructure, inclusive policies, and coordination mechanisms are ways to improve the capacity of local governments to cope with environmental and disaster-related challenges. The LISA framework stands out as a reliable tool for capacity assessment, laying the foundation for further research. PubDate: 2025-04-22 DOI: 10.3126/japfcsc.v8i1.77605 Issue No:Vol. 8, No. 1 (2025)
Authors:Yogesh Man Shrestha , Raju Shrestha Pages: 173 - 190 Abstract: Occupational stress is a critical concern for disaster responders due to the high-risk and unpredictable nature of their duties. This study investigates occupational stress, support systems, and coping strategies among Armed Police Force (APF), Nepal disaster rescuers, with a focus on identifying key stressors and proposing interventions. A structured questionnaire was administered to 89 APF personnel selected randomly across multiple disaster response units. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were used to assess the impact of demographic factors on various stress related constructs and coping and support systems. Findings indicate that while institutional support and coping strategies effectively mitigate stress, longer service duration and frequent deployments lead to cumulative psychological strain. The study highlights the need for continuous monitoring, structured mental health interventions, and specialized training to address the long-term effects of occupational stress. Beyond traditional stress management programs, the study stresses a need for innovative interventions, such as technology-based solutions. PubDate: 2025-04-22 DOI: 10.3126/japfcsc.v8i1.77606 Issue No:Vol. 8, No. 1 (2025)
Authors:CB Thapa Pages: 191 - 216 Abstract: The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) seems to have reshaped South Asia’s geopolitics by increasing China’s economic and strategic influence. Although stated as an economic initiative, due to its large scale investment and projects at strategic locations, it has generated tremendous concern in the global and the South Asian context. This article, based on secondary data and utilizing qualitative methods, is an attempt to explore the Implication of BRI in South Asia, focusing on the growing competition between India and China for regional influence. The study employs a descriptive and analytical approach and through the case study of four key project that runs through South Asia, namely, China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Bangladesh-China-India-Myanmar Economic Corridor, Trans-Himalayan economic corridor and Maritime Silk Road (MSR) under BRI, examines the geopolitical implication of BRI in South Asia. The research finds that although the competition for influence is not a new phenomenon, BRI has certainly toughened the struggle for influence. Since BRI is construed by its opposing nations as Chinese grand strategy to expand its influence and developed unilateral and multilateral counterstrategies, BRI appears to have broader implications in the future geopolitical order in South Asia, particularly the strategic implications of the CPEC as its flagship initiative, and the potential security implication with further expansion of ports in Sri Lanka and Myanmar, reinforcing the MSR. For the smaller South Asian nations like Nepal the evolving global landscape presents both economic and geopolitical opportunities alongside inherent challenges, requiring delicate balancing act. PubDate: 2025-04-22 DOI: 10.3126/japfcsc.v8i1.77607 Issue No:Vol. 8, No. 1 (2025)
Authors:Yukesh Upreti Pages: 217 - 237 Abstract: Citizen trust of border governing agencies is considered as a crucial task for good border governance. This research paper examines the relationship between the determinant factors of citizen trust towards Armed Police Force (APF), Nepal at Border crossing points. The research follows quantitative approach with correlation design. The primary sources of data are taken from the respondents at two major Border crossing points. Secondary sources of data are taken from online sources, journal, publication, reports and recorded data from APF Border Security Department. The finding shows clear relationship between the determinant factors of citizen trust toward the APF, Nepal. The correlation analysis shows highly significant of citizen trust with determinant factors which are integrity, competency, benevolence, honesty and service delivery. The regression model is highly significant and the model fits the data. The acceptance of the alternative hypotheses for both categories of variables indicates that determinant factors play a significant role in shaping public perceptions and trust towards APF, Nepal at Border crossing point and help in building public confidents. PubDate: 2025-04-22 DOI: 10.3126/japfcsc.v8i1.77608 Issue No:Vol. 8, No. 1 (2025)
Authors:Ramesh Raj Kunwar, Nimesh Ulak Pages: 238 - 287 Abstract: This paper aims to explore and understand disciplinarity and transdisciplinarity in the global context. Discipline refers to branches of knowledge emerged in between 1750-1850. It provides shared concepts and language, accreditation to practitioners within their fields and, importantly, the epistemological and ontological security. Three categories of traditional disciplines include the natural sciences, the social sciences, and the humanities. This study is based on a review of a number of key papers which were identified during a literature review on disciplinarity and transdisciplinarity. An effort has been made to explore how transdisciplinarity as an approach came into existence in the academia. The concepts that can be described as an alternative combinations of four characteristic features of transdisciplinarity, namely (a) to relate to socially relevant issues, (b) to transcend and integrate disciplinary paradigms, (c) to do participatory research and, (d) to search for a unity of knowledge. This study incorporates introduction, review of literature, methodology, transdisciplinarity, types of transdisciplinarity, two domains of transdisciplinarity studies, knowledge integration, transdisciplinary education, boundary work and border-work, hybridization, social engagement, tamed and wicked problems, real world problem, life-world problem, complexity of problems and conclusion. PubDate: 2025-04-22 DOI: 10.3126/japfcsc.v8i1.77609 Issue No:Vol. 8, No. 1 (2025)
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