Kathmandu, Nepal – May 8, 2025
In a significant move toward bolstering climate governance, Nepal is revising its 2017 Parliamentary Handbook on Climate Finance. This initiative, spearheaded by UNDP Nepal in partnership with the Committee on Development, Economic Affairs, and Good Governance of the National Assembly, aims to strengthen legislative oversight in managing climate-related funds.
The revision process was launched during a national workshop attended by federal Members of Parliament, climate finance experts, and key stakeholders. The workshop emphasized the need to align the handbook with Nepal’s federal governance system and the rapidly evolving climate finance landscape.
Addressing Nepal’s Growing Climate Risks
As Nepal grapples with mounting climate risks—including rising temperatures, erratic rainfall patterns, floods, and landslides—strengthening the capacity of lawmakers to oversee and manage climate finance has become crucial. The revised handbook will serve as a critical tool to:
Monitor and track climate finance flows effectively.
Enhance transparency, accountability, and equitable allocation of funds.
Align climate financing strategies with national and international commitments, such as Nepal’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), Long-Term Strategies (LTS), National Adaptation Plan (NAP), and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Foster intergovernmental collaboration for impactful climate action.
A Step Toward Inclusive and Resilient Development
This initiative underscores Nepal’s commitment to strengthening its legislative framework to support inclusive, sustainable, and climate-resilient development. By enhancing the oversight capabilities of its legislative bodies, Nepal is setting a precedent for other nations grappling with similar challenges.
Experts at the workshop lauded the move as a necessary step to ensure effective utilization of climate finance in addressing both immediate and long-term climate challenges. "This revised handbook will not only empower lawmakers but also ensure that climate finance reaches the communities most affected by climate change," stated a participant.
The revision process is expected to be completed within the coming months, paving the way for a more robust and accountable approach to climate finance management in Nepal.
Ecosphere News will continue to monitor developments on this critical issue.
