Politics and Diplomacy explores how interactions between international state and non-state actors affect current issues and trends in international politics and statecraft. Recent articles have addressed the role of the media in international affairs, the challenges and opportunities presented by strategic and regional alliances such as NATO and the European Union, and the prospects of democracy in Iran. Our authors include both academic experts, as well as political practitioners.

Trouble in Paradise:
Nepal’s Tryst with Insurgency and Despotism

By Harsh V. Pant

Protesting in September 2005 against King Gyanendra’s participation in the UN General Assembly in New York City, Girija Prasad Koirala, former prime minister of Nepal and current president of the Nepali Congress, declared, “The days of kings are gone.” Articulating the desire of a majority of the Nepalese people, Koirala’s comment also reflected the success of the Maoist insurgency in Nepal and the virtual isolation of the Nepalese monarchy. more...