Federalism in Nepal: Integration and Accommodation of Ethnic Diversities

Abstract

Ethnic diversity rather than homogeneity is the defining feature of many countries around the world today. Ethnic diversity refers to the presence of different ethnic or cultural groups, coexistence and interaction of individuals from various social, cultural, religious, economic and political backgrounds in the community and society. Like ethnic diversity, federalism is a form of government in which sovereignty or political power is constitutionally divided between the central government and local governments. This paper examines that how federal system integrates, accommodates and acknowledge ethnic diversities and differences in multiethnic societies? Theoretically, this study is primarily informed by prominent scholar Will Kimlicka’s (2005) argument which deals federalism as a mechanism for accommodating and responding ethnic diversities in plural societies. At this point, this study is based on data collected from both primary and secondary sources of information. The secondary data has been gathered from several published and unpublished books, journals, articles and research reports. For primary information, in-depth interview, observation, key informant interview and focused group discussions were conducted with the local people’s representatives, political leaders, ethnic activists and civil servants. Informants of this study were selected through purposive sampling method. Finally, this study confirms that federalism serves as a key mechanism for accommodating and integrating ethnic diversity by decentralizing power and providing a platform for diverse communities to maintain and promote their distinct identities. As a result, federalism fosters a more inclusive and integrated society, where ethnic diversity is recognized as a strength, contributing to both national unity and social solidarity.