The image that Nepal is presenting to the world is now different than the one it had a decade back. When former foreign minister Bhekh Bahadur Thapa said that Nepal is gradually losing its reputation, he was echoing a message that the outsiders have often been saying in recent times. But he attributed the slide to the ongoing violence and unrest which, however, is an incomplete account of the factors responsible in exuding the unpleasant aura. A nation’s image is the sum total of a large body of defining characters, some with the subtlest of shades. A citizen’s attitude to a stranger or the impression a politician or a government representative leaves behind at an international dais does play a part in shaping people’s opinion about a country and its people. Owing to rights abuse, atrocities and corruption besides bemusing political theatry of those in authority in the name of people’s welfare, the outside world has been compelled to change its view of Nepal.

The foreign policy is another pivotal factor that crystallises the people’s opinion. It is time for those who represent Nepal in embassies and international fora to look back and assess what actually went wrong. Perhaps it could be a faulty policy, rampant misuse of authority or the mandate itself. Of course, those who are closely associated with this country will acknowledge that the Nepalis are the same even if the present political ambience is not what it used to be. Their desire to lead a life of dignity in a peaceful setting has not changed and is unlikely to change in the future. So what is it that tarnished Nepal’s image? This is a question those who are asked to represent Nepal must think seriously about. Others at home also simply cannot go on acting irresponsibly. The kind of blunders politicians committed in the past has been one of the main reasons behind Nepal’s diminished credibility in addition to the blemish it earned through blatant violation of human rights. The February 1 move does not seem to be having the impact intended or hoped-for. Democratic credentials have been blurred. International goodwill is a major asset for any country. Though a permanent solution to the crisis holds the ultimate answer to restoring the injured image, it is the duty of every citizen to behave in a fair and responsible manner if Nepal were to regain its positive image.