On June 9, 2025, Alternative Foundation organized a thematic discussion titled “The Role of Development Partners in Nepal’s Transition from LDC to Developing Country (DC) aligned with SDG and the 16th Plan” in Kathmandu. This timely event brought together representatives from UN agencies, international NGOs, universities, the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA), civil society, and senior development experts to engage in meaningful dialogue on Nepal’s upcoming Least Developed Country (LDC) graduation in 2026. The program featured a keynote address by Dr. Ram Kumar Phuyal, emphasizing the strategic alignment of LDC graduation with Nepal’s 16th Five-Year Plan and long-term national vision. Discussions highlighted both opportunities and risks of graduation, stressing the need for resilient policies, innovation, and inclusive development pathways.
The primary objective of the event was to share the Alternative Foundation’s initiatives supporting LDC graduation, SDG achievement, and national development planning. These include establishing a Research and Development Center, developing national governance indicators, formulating a climate justice framework, and publishing a conceptual book on Artificial Intelligence for Nepal’s context. The participants engaged in rich dialogue, raising key issues such as capacity building at local levels, diaspora engagement, financing gaps, and the need for stronger human capital investment. The discussions also called for better collaboration between civil society, academia, and development partners to ensure that the LDC transition is not just a status change but a transformative, people-centered development opportunity.
The event concluded with a shared commitment to foster synergy between government institutions, civil society, academia, and international partners for a smooth and sustainable post-LDC transition. Participants emphasized the importance of evidence-based advocacy, policy innovation, and strengthened institutional capacity to meet the challenges ahead. The Alternative Foundation’s leadership was widely appreciated for initiating this critical discourse, positioning itself as a national think tank promoting sustainable, inclusive, and science-driven development. Moving forward, the Foundation aims to continue its role in shaping Nepal’s just, resilient, and prosperous development trajectory beyond 2026.
