Nepal has created a dedicated environment diplomacy division within its Ministry of Foreign Affairs to enhance its international engagement on climate change and related environmental challenges. This move comes amid increasing concerns over the country’s susceptibility to climate-induced disasters, following a recent catastrophic event.

On August 26, a massive mudslide struck Nepal, causing significant loss of life and widespread devastation. According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, the disaster has resulted in at least 1,411 confirmed deaths, with 5,875 individuals, including both Nepali citizens and foreign nationals, still reported missing as of the evening of September 19.

A recent analysis by World Weather Attribution linked the disaster to the effects of human-induced global warming. The report noted that rising temperatures have accelerated glacier thinning and thawed mountain permafrost in the Himalayas, likely destabilizing the mountain slope that collapsed, which triggered the mudslide.

In response to such heightened vulnerability, the Nepalese government decided to establish the new environment diplomacy division within the Foreign Ministry. The division’s purpose is to lead focused diplomatic efforts on climate and environmental issues, recognizing the necessity for a sustained and institutionalized approach beyond participation in international meetings.

Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal emphasized the importance of integrating climate diplomacy as a long-term government priority. He stated that Nepal has actively engaged in climate discussions at various global platforms but now seeks to formalize and expand these efforts through this specialized division.

By strengthening its diplomatic initiatives on climate matters, Nepal aims to draw greater international attention and support for addressing the challenges posed by its fragile Himalayan ecosystem and the broader impacts of climate change.