Nepal's 2015 Constitution: Building a Federal Republic

Nepal promulgated its new constitution on 20 September 2015, just five months after the devastating earthquake — a remarkable political achievement under extreme circumstances.

Overview

The 2015 Constitution transformed Nepal from a centralised unitary state into a federal republic with three tiers of government: federal, provincial, and local. It created seven provinces, each with their own assemblies and governments, replacing the old development region structure. The constitution declared Nepal a secular state — ending its centuries-old status as the world's only official Hindu kingdom — and guaranteed fundamental rights including equality, freedom of expression, and the right to education and health. Controversy surrounded the constitution from the start. Madhesi communities in the Terai and Tharu peoples protested that provincial boundaries disadvantaged them. India expressed concern about the status of Madhesi communities with strong cross-border ties. Border blockades disrupted fuel and supplies to landlocked Nepal for months after promulgation. Successive amendments have addressed some Madhesi concerns. The constitution also established a Truth and Reconciliation Commission to address human rights violations from the 1996-2006 Maoist conflict, though progress on transitional justice has been slow.

FAQ

How many provinces does Nepal have? Nepal has seven provinces, each with a provincial assembly and government. Province 2 (now named Madhesh Province) had the most contentious creation due to Madhesi representation debates.

Is Nepal a Hindu state? No — the 2015 Constitution declared Nepal a secular state. Previously, Nepal was constitutionally a Hindu kingdom.