Revisiting Nepal’s Zone of Peace Proposal: Survival Strategy for a Multipolar World

Abstract

This paper revisits Nepal’s Zone of Peace (ZoP) proposal, introduced in the 1970s, as a foundational framework for Nepal’s foreign policy. While originally conceived during a bipolar global order, the ZoP remains pragmatically relevant in the current multipolar geopolitical landscape. Situated between two regional powers, India and China, Nepal faces persistent challenges to its sovereignty, stability, and diplomatic identity. By analyzing the historical context and contemporary relevance of the ZoP, this study highlights its potential to reinforce Nepal’s neutrality and the pursuit of multi-alignment strategies amidst intensifying global and regional competition. Employing qualitative methodologies—including historical analysis, reviews of secondary sources, and theoretical frameworks like liberal internationalism, balance of power, and small-state diplomacy—the study finds that the ZoP’s principles of neutrality and peaceful coexistence remain vital. Key findings suggest that revitalizing the ZoP through a multidimensional approach, encompassing strategic economic diplomacy, fostering alliances with middle and small powers, and deepening engagement in multilateral platforms like the United Nations and the Non-Aligned Movement can reinforce Nepal’s position as an independent and proactive diplomatic actor. Additionally, leveraging cultural diplomacy rooted in Nepal’s Buddhist and Hindu heritage emerges as a critical tool to garner global support for the initiative. Acknowledging challenges such as resistance from neighboring powers, internal political instability, and limited international recognition, the findings imply that adaptive diplomacy, enhanced regional cooperation, and proactive global advocacy are essential to transforming the ZoP into a robust geopolitical strategy. This paper concludes that by stimulating the ZoP with a forward-looking, multi-faceted strategy, Nepal can safeguard its sovereignty, strengthen its global presence, and contribute to a more stable and peaceful world order.