Asia Society cordially invites you to:
D�j� vu in Nepal: Turning the Clock Back on Democracy?
SPEAKERS:
Kul C. Gautam, Deputy Executive Director, UNICEF
Kedar Bhakta Shrestha, Royal Nepalese Ambassador to the U.S.
Robert Templer, Asia Program Director, International Crisis Group
Saman Zia-Zarifi, Deputy Director, Asia Division, Human Rights Watch
Moderator
Barbara Nimri Aziz, Ph.D., WBAI/Pacifica Radio
Wednesday, May 4th, 2005
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Asia Society
725 Park Avenue (at 70th Street)
For the second time in three years, Nepal's King dismissed the
government and declared a state of emergency, which has resulted in
suspension of most civil liberties of the Nepali people including
freedom of press, speech and the right of assembly. The King has
formed a new government under his leadership to "restore peace and
effective democracy within the next three years." Many analysts argue
that the royal move of February 1st will further alienate the king
from the mainstream political parties and consequently, plunge the
conflict-plagued Himalayan nation into further crisis and political
uncertainty. Some foreign nations have already suspended aid to Nepal
and more have threatened to do so unless the impoverished country,
which depends heavily on foreign assistance, restores democracy.
Nearly a decade and half after multi-party democracy was restored in
Nepal, the country is once again caught in the throes of political
crisis, deteriorating security and economic situation, and a violent
Maoist insurgency. The panelists will focus on the following issues:
What are the prospects for ending the political stalemate as well as
finding a lasting resolution of the Maoist insurgency, given the most
recent developments? What constructive roles can Nepal's regional
neighbors, friends and international organizations play in resolving
this crisis? What are some long-term measures for institutionalizing
lasting democracy in Nepal with transparent, participatory
institutions, good governance and leadership at the local levels?
Please join us to discuss these and many more pertinent issues.
Major support for the Asia Society's Policy Programs is provided by
the Nicholas Platt Endowment for Public Policy.
Please register in advance. $7 Students; $10 Members / NGOs; $15
Nonmembers
To register with a Credit Card, please call the Box Office at (212)
517-ASIA, send complete information by fax at (212) 517-8315 or email
boxoffice@asiasociety.org.
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