Nepal’s past dealing with multiple disasters, including the aftermath of its civil war and the massive earthquake of 2015 may have helped the country prepare for the current COVID-19 crisis.
Closing the climbing season will provide valuable time for recovery from the effects of intensive tourism, but will prove difficult for those working in the industry.
Breeding young men for export has never been a successful economic development strategy. Policies that improve local labour market opportunities could increase the status of women.
Sara Parker, Liverpool John Moores University et Kay Standing, Liverpool John Moores University
Chhaupadi, the practice of exiling menstruating women and girls from their home, often to a cow shed, is still practised in some areas of Western Nepal.
Women health-care volunteers in places like Nepal, Afghanistan and Ethiopia play a vital role in the health system, yet they are undervalued and undertrained.
Pregnant women and new mothers who feel totally powerless are taking their own lives in increasing numbers in Nepal. More mental health training for local midwives is needed.
Reconstruction progress in Nepal has been painfully slow. Building code compliance and better urban planning are a must – but inequitable access to resources undermines recovery.