The Global Platform for Local Voices: Sunita Dangol and the Deep Meaning of 'Localisation'

Global development debates often revolve solely around nation-states, large investors, and international institutions. But in recent years, a crucial truth has gradually gained acceptance: the local level is where the real impact of development is seen, and local governments are its true drivers.

Reflecting this changing mindset, Kathmandu Metropolitan City's Deputy Mayor, Sunita Dangol, standing on the platform of the European Parliament, is not just a personal achievement; it is international recognition for Nepal's local democracy.

The recently concluded 'Cities and Regions for International Partnerships 2025 Forum' in Belgium raised a serious question on the theme of 'Localising the Global Gateway': "International partnerships for whom and how?" In this context, Dangol clearly stated, "Local governments are not just implementers; they must be decisive partners from the very beginning of policy formulation."

This perspective of hers was not a mere theoretical statement. Coming from a country like Nepal, where the constitution has empowered the local level but a centralist mindset still prevails in practice, her voice helped connect the global development debate with reality. 

Nepal has repeatedly experienced that development projects, however beautiful they look on paper, are not sustainable if the plans are made without understanding the local context.

Another important aspect Dangol emphasized was, "Partnership does not only mean capital and infrastructure. 

More than roads, bridges, or buildings, local institutional capacity, good governance, social inclusion, and people-centric development are the foundations of long-term change." This idea attempts to connect development with human and democratic values, not merely confining it to economic calculations.

A mature awareness was evident in her speech: every city, every local government is different. Social structures, culture, governance styles, and citizen expectations vary. 

Therefore, 'one-size-fits-all' global programs are more likely to fail at the local level. No international partnership can be meaningful without flexibility, local ownership, and context-sensitivity.

Our local government representative speaking at the European Parliament is a moment of pride in itself. But more importantly, it signals that the center of the development dialogue is gradually shifting towards cities and local levels. 

Sunita Dangol's presence conveyed the message that Nepal is not only a recipient of aid but can also stand as a partner nation capable of sharing experience and vision.

This participation is not a story of an individual's foreign trip. It is the self-confidence of local democracy, the global expression of constitutional rights, and a clear indication of what future development partnerships should look like. 

If such voices continue to resonate on international platforms, Nepal's cities will not just be names on a map; they will become active players in the global development debate.