It is one week since a devastating 7.8 earthquake hit outside the Kathmandu valley. At this time, there are more than 7000 confirmed deaths and more than 14,000 injured, and the numbers continue to rise. Last week Friends of Nepal sent out an appeal for help for the injured, and hundreds of people from around the
All Posts by tbhandari
Pick of the Week: Nepali citizen being tried in Britain
Britain is trying a Nepali citizen for crimes committed in Nepal against Nepali people during the Nepali civil war. I’d be interested in knowing what Nepali people think of this. Is it a violation of Nepali sovereignty, or a good thing that an alleged war criminal is being prosecuted, no matter
Pick of the Week: Traditional Caravans
The government of Nepal plans to build a road through Humla, making the remote region more accessible and probably promoting development. A good thing, right? Well, yes…although maybe not for everyone. This article describes the unfortunate downside of this road for traditional traders.
Peace Corps Week: March 1-7
Just a reminder that Peace Corps Week is fast approaching! It’ll be held March 1 through 7, and the theme this year is Host Country Heroes. Who did you know in Nepal who is your hero? Who is doing great work that the world should know about? Post your comments here
Pick of the Week: Bhutanese Refugees in Ohio
The pick this week comes from the Columbus Dispatch, which featured ethnic Nepalese refugees and their adjustment to Ohio.
Pick of the Week: Brawl in the Nepalese Parliament
The pick this week is nothing to be proud of: a video of Nepalese politicians brawling. The country has been without a constitution since 2006, and the latest deadline for producing a draft is Thursday. Some Maoists objected vigorously to the latest draft, resulting in the events in the video above.
Pick of the Week: Fake Orphanages
Weena Pun of the Kathmandu Post published an expose of fake orphanages in Kathmandu which exploit children to draw in foreign tourists and their money. It is a reminder that volun-tourism may not always be in the best interest of the local people.
National PC Day of Action: March 5
In just about six weeks, the National Peace Corps Association will be hosting its 11th annual Day of Action. Those of you close to Washington are invited to attend meetings in congressional offices. Those farther away could host your own Day of Action activities in support of Peace Corps. For
Pick of the week: Nepali kids doing great things
Happy New Year! I have two picks this week, both about Nepali young people. One is the story of a teenage refugee who was selected to help drop the ball in Times Square on New Year’s eve. The other is about young Nepalese making public art in Kathmandu.Both worth reading!