On 16 February 2024, Bikalpa, an Alternative in collaboration with Accountability Lab Nepal, conducted a Summit for Democracy conclave program themed on “Role of Youth in the Policy-making Process of Local and State Governments.” at Big Hotel Biratnagar. The program aimed to foster dialogue on Nepal’s democratic landscape, mainly focusing on youth involvement in local and provincial governance within Biratnagar Metropolitan City and Koshi Province.

The key Agenda of the program were:
● To raise the critical conversation around youth participation in decision-making
processes within Biratnagar Metropolitan City and Koshi province
● To explore prospects and challenges for youth engagement and empowerment, and
the responsibilities of the governments in fostering it
● To aware participants about Nepal's engagement in the Summit for Democracy
process

The event brought together a diverse group of youth leaders from various sectors to delve into the challenges and opportunities young people face and explore strategies for enhancing their engagement in decision-making processes. Participants also discussed the policy measures and programs required to bolster youth participation effectively. Esteemed speakers at the panel discussion included, Hon. Bhakti Prasad Situala, Member of Koshi Province Parliament and former Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Cooperatives, and Leader of Rastriya Prajatantra Party; Hon. Puranjan Acharya, Vice President of Province Planning Commission Biratnagar, Koshi Province, Nepal; and Mrs. Shilpa Nirala Karki, Deputy Mayor of Biratnagar Municipality.

The fireside chat, moderated by Mr. Basanta Adhikari, Executive Director of Bikalpa an Alternative, emphasized the importance of youth participation in decision-making processes within Biratnagar Metropolitan City and Koshi Province. During the program Ms. Suvekshya, in her opening remarks, outlined the discussion program of the Summit for Democracy and handed it over to Mr. Basanta Adhikari.

Key Discussions and Insights:

Youth Involvement in Policy Making Process:

• Youth have historically been catalysts for change across cultural, economic, and political spheres.
• The youth focus on international education opportunities due to limitations in domestic policy frameworks.
• Nepal should learn from India’s diaspora engagement strategies.
• Education should prioritize skill development.

Youth Involvement in Biratnagar Sub-Metropolitan City:

• Lack of specific policies for youth engagement.
• Emphasis on improving the quality of education and promoting startup businesses.
• Introduction of vocational training programs.

Current Scenario of Youth in Policy Making:

• Challenges such as bureaucratic hurdles and restrictive government policies impede youth entrepreneurship.
• Need for institutional attention to sectors like IT and tourism.

Youth Pro-Active Engagement with Authorities:

• Calls for increased youth participation in provincial governance.
• Acknowledgment of youth input by authorities but low youth engagement with local issues.

Participants’ Remarks and Questions:

• Concerns about power disparities and unequal access to resources.
• Queries on the closure of the Sports Ministry and business regulations in Biratnagar.

Speakers’ Final Remarks:

• Centralized power dynamics hinder policy formulation at the provincial level.
• The economic empowerment of women is crucial for achieving equality.

The program concluded with a commitment to support aspiring young entrepreneurs and professionals in Biratnagar followed by dinner. The Summit for Democracy Conclave Program served as a platform for constructive dialogue and collaboration, paving the way for greater youth involvement in decision-making processes and contributing to the advancement of democracy in Nepal. 63 youth attended the program.