Community governance and peacebuilding in Nepal

Abstract

This study is based on an institutional analysis of twenty-six grass-roots level organizations which is examined by organizational surveys and three focus group discussions. Findings show that community-based organizations are key actors of community governance in Nepal and their functions are supportive in reinforcing the peacebuilding process in many ways. First, it plays a significant role in addressing inequality and isolation. Second, its continual practice fosters awareness creation, promote democratic exercise, imparts “voice to the voiceless” and gives clout to the powerless. Third, it inspires the partners to create an enabling environment for mobilizing local resources. Finally, it strengthens the structure of accountability and contributes to peacebuilding. However, results indicate that the overall practice of governance at the community level was moderate to efficient. Following the discussion of results, this study proposes some recommendations regarding the operation of a sound peace process at grass-roots level through community governance.