Long-delayed civil service bill

Subnational governments’ inability to manage their staff continues to restrict their effectiveness.

The federal parliament of Nepal is finally taking essential steps towards the passage of the Federal Civil Service Bill. This is arguably one of the most significant pieces of legislation needed to institutionalise federalism in the country. Although the bill is essential for enabling provincial and local governments to recruit, deploy and manage civil servants independently, its progress has been repeatedly stalled due to political disputes and resistance from various influential groups, including civil service trade unions and major political parties.