12th September 2025, Kathmandu
In a significant diplomatic move, members of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee have voiced their deep concern over the escalating political unrest in Nepal.
Nepal Democratic Process
In a joint statement, Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Chris Van Hollen called for the restoration of peace and stability through a robust and inclusive democratic process, underscoring the United States’ commitment to Nepal’s democratic journey.
The senators’ statement, released amidst ongoing turmoil in the Himalayan nation, strongly condemned the recent violence, the tragic loss of life, and the acts of arson that have marred the public landscape.
“The incidents of violence, loss of life, and arson that have occurred in Nepal lately are not acceptable,” the statement read, extending “deepest sympathies to the victims and their families.”
This direct and empathetic message from influential U.S. lawmakers highlights the international community’s growing attention to the situation in Nepal.
The statement particularly emphasized the need for accountability for those responsible for the violent suppression of citizens. This call for justice resonates with the demands of the youth-led protest movement, often referred to as the “Gen Z protests,” which has been a primary force behind the recent political upheaval.
The protesters, many of whom are in their teens and early twenties, have taken to the streets to demonstrate against what they perceive as systemic corruption, government overreach, and a lack of accountability among the political elite.
Nepal’s democratic process has been a focus of international observation for decades. The country has made significant strides, transitioning from a monarchy to a federal democratic republic.
The senators’ statement acknowledges this progress, noting, “Nepal has made significant progress in democratic governance over the past two decades.
It is essential to safeguard those achievements, made possible by the strong commitment of the Nepali people.” This recognition of the Nepali people’s resilience and commitment to democracy serves as a powerful validation of their struggle.
The senators’ message is not just a call for internal peace but also an acknowledgment of Nepal’s crucial role in regional stability. A peaceful, fully democratic, and dynamic Nepal is in the interest of Nepalis, the United States, and the entire region.
The political and economic stability of Nepal has broader implications for its neighbors, particularly India and China, and the global community at large.
The United States, through its long-standing foreign policy of supporting a prosperous and democratic Nepal, views the current unrest as a threat to this shared interest.
The statement also expressed confidence in the Nepali government’s ability to address the underlying issues of corruption and institutional weaknesses. These are the very grievances that have fueled the public’s anger and mistrust.
The U.S. has a history of providing developmental assistance to Nepal, with U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) projects supporting a wide range of sectors, including governance, health, education, and economic growth.
This ongoing partnership underscores the United States’ long-term commitment to Nepal’s development and democratic consolidation.
The current political vacuum and search for a new government come after a series of dramatic events, including the resignation of the former prime minister.
As the country grapples with finding a way forward, the message from the U.S. senators serves as a strong reminder of the international community’s expectations.
The call for a peaceful, democratic, and accountable resolution to the crisis is a clear signal that the world is watching. For Nepal, this is a critical juncture where the actions of its leaders will determine the nation’s future and its standing on the global stage.
For more: Nepal Democratic Process