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The 13th World Trade Organization Ministerial Conference (MC13) has concluded, issuing the Abu Dhabi declaration, which sets out a forward-looking reform agenda for the organization. The conference also took a number of decisions, including renewing the commitment to have a fully and well-functioning dispute settlement system by 2024.

The ministerial meeting decided to improve the use of the special and differential treatment provisions for developing and least developed countries (LDCs). As scores of LDCs are graduating, they are demanding a smooth and sustainable transition. 

“Recalling that, at our 12th session, we recognized the role that certain measures in the WTO can play to facilitate smooth and sustainable transition for members after their graduation from the LDC category, we welcome the decision adopted by the General Council in 2023,” the declaration states.

The general council decided to encourage those members that graduate or remove countries from unilateral tariff or duty-free and quote-free preferences programs reserved for LDCs based on their being graduated from the UN list of LDCS. It also decided to provide a smooth and sustainable transition period for withdrawal of such preferences after the entry into force of a decision of the UN to graduate a country from the LDC category.

The member-states adopted the Abu Dhabi Ministerial Declaration, where they expressed commitment to preserving and strengthening the ability of the multilateral trading system, with the WTO at its core, to respond to current trade challenges. The  declaration underlines the centrality of the development dimension in the work of the WTO, recognizing the role that the multilateral trading system can play in contributing toward the achievement of the UN 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals. It also recognized the contribution of women’s economic empowerment and women’s participation in trade to economic growth and sustainable development.

The member-states recognized the role and importance of services to the global economy, as it generates more than two-thirds of global economic output and accounts for over half of all jobs. They encouraged the relevant WTO bodies to continue their work to review and build on all the lessons learned during the Covid-19 pandemic and to build effective solutions in case of future pandemics in an expeditious manner. 

Nepal is graduating from LDC in 2026. But there are fears that the country’s economy will suffer if it loses the preferential treatment from the international community post-graduation. While major countries have pledged to support the countries who face graduation problems, Nepal still needs to come up with a strategic roadmap. 

Speaking with ApEx, Li Chenggang, permanent representative to WTO, said: “With an increasing number of LDCs’ meeting the criteria of graduation and 19 out of 35 WTO LDC member of on their path toward graduation, it is imperative than ever to explore pathways as the WTO to facilitate the smooth transition.”

He further said China supports the smooth transition of graduated LDCs supporting measures such as extending preferential trade arrangements for market access. “This means, after LDCs graduation, China still provides zero tariff treatment for 98 percent tariff lines of products originating from LDCs for another three years,” he added.

I read ‘The Secret Dreamworld of a Shopaholic’ by Sophie Kinsella during high school. It’s the first book in the Shopaholic series. I still have a copy of the book, and it’s the one I read back in school. The pages are a little yellowed and the smell is heavenly. I read it again recently when I was bored and, 20 years later, the book holds the same appeal. I couldn’t stop reading it. Becky is such a frivolous but endearing character. I now want to rewatch its movie adaptation, starring Isla Fisher as Rebecca Bloomwood, that came out nine years after the book’s release. It’s every bit as hilarious as the novel. 

Alternatively titled ‘Confessions of a Shopaholic’ the story follows Rebecca (Becky) who loves to shop. Whether she can afford it is another matter altogether. Becky is a financial journalist. She tells other people how to manage their money. In reality, she doesn’t have a grip on her finances. The answer to all her problems is retail therapy. She knows it’s not a good habit but she can’t stop. This gets her in messy situations which get even messier when she tries to find a way out of them. As her unpaid overdrafts become unmanageable, will Becky be able to find a solution? And what about her desire to find true love? 

In addition to her shopping addiction, Becky’s tendency to spew out absurd lies without thinking to explain her silly purchases lands her in difficult situations. In funny moments, she manages to position herself in embarrassing ways. She comes across as rather dramatic. It endears her to the reader. You know she’s not bad at heart but perhaps just down on her luck. You can also see that she’s not losing hope, that she’s trying to pull herself together. You realize there’s a Becky in all of us and that relatability, I believe, is what makes the book series work. 

The other books in the series are as funny. Reading them in order helps you keep track of what’s happening in Becky’s life but you can pick up a book at random and it will still make sense. I loaned ‘Shopaholic and Sister’ to a friend who had never read the series before and she loved it. Now, she has borrowed a couple of more books in the series. Read the book (and the rest of the series) if you want a lighthearted read that doesn’t require you to exercise your brain muscles.

Fiction

The Secret Dreamworld of a Shopaholic

Sophie Kinsella

Published: 2000

Publisher: Black Swan

Pages: 317, Paperback

Divya Dhakal, 27, is a travel content creator from Pokhara, Nepal. She’s known for trekking to lesser-known trails and mountains. She has been creating travel videos since 2015. She has been to the Everest and Annapurna regions, Bardia, Mugu, Jumla, Dhorpatan, Chisapani, Bajang, Sukla Phata National Park, Ilam, and Kanyam among many other places. Passion for traveling led her to create content based on it and she now has over  27.4K followers on Instagram. She also works at a travel company called Altitude Himalaya. In a conversation with Babita Shrestha from ApEx, Divya spoke about her trips and the challenges of making travel content.

How do you plan and make travel vlogs?

When it comes to planning travel vlogs, first I think about whether it’s possible and affordable. In the beginning, I also had to convince my parents. But now, I go wherever I want. I’m always on the lookout for new places where I can soak up the culture, nature, and lifestyle. For me, traveling isn’t just about pretty scenery. It’s about immersing myself in different cultures and ways of life. I like to chat with the locals and get all the information I need. If there are any cool festivals happening in certain areas, I make sure to plan my trip around them.

I don’t like to use travel packages. I do my research before heading out to make sure I’m getting the best experience possible. Nowadays, with all the digital content available, finding information is easy. I search for keywords and hashtags related to my destination and gather information from hotels and other sources. I don’t rely only on one source. I like to double-check everything to ensure safety.

Could you run us through your vlogging process?

I mainly use my phone for making videos as it’s convenient while on the move. Sometimes, I take along a camera but it’s not my go-to. Lately, I’ve been experimenting with drone photography, which is pretty exciting. As for editing, I use free apps. My vlogs aren’t super professional at the moment but I’m aiming to amp things up and grow my page. I think informative videos that I’ve been posting are helping me gain followers. For now, I’m posting reels with music and I’m thinking of switching to voice overs. From what I’ve learned, creating personalized and relatable content that shows off your personality can help you build a community online. 

What does it take to be a good travel vlogger?

You don’t need any special skills but you need to be creative. Research about the place. Figure out the budget. Be careful and organized, especially when it comes to flights and transportation. It’s essential to stay aware of your surroundings and the people you meet while traveling. You must just be yourself and keep it real. Start small and learn as you go. Try to learn new techniques. If you’re planning to do travel vlogs, it’s smart to make videos about budget trips to show that traveling doesn’t have to be expensive. You can talk about unique cultural stories too. Also, sharing information about how easy or tough the trip was and talking about mistakes and experiences can help boost your profile. I also believe creating informative and cinematic content goes a long way in expanding your follower base.

What are some of your travel essentials?

When I’m trekking, I make sure to pack some essentials to keep me covered. They are my survival gear. I always have a medical kit with basic first aid supplies and medicines for common issues like diarrhea, cold, and fever. Sunscreen is a must, along with some personal care items. I pack clothing for all types of weather, along with camping gear like a tent and sleeping bag. I always carry a compass and some tools for navigation. To stay connected and safe, I take along a radio phone.

How do you deal with challenging situations during your trips?

During a trek to Mera Peak in the Solukhumbu region, which is one of the highest trekking peaks, I faced a tough situation. I got my period in the middle of the trek and felt mentally drained. At almost 5000 meters, I also got a fever but I didn’t want to give up easily. But my health worsened and I had to turn back before reaching the summit. From this experience, I learned that not every travel plan goes as expected. I try to deal with situations by controlling my emotions. It can make a big difference in handling unexpected issues.

How do you make sure you’re respectful when you’re in a new place?

When I visit a new place, I do my research to understand the local customs and beliefs. If I’m unsure about something, I ask the locals for advice. Once I had my period on the way to Rara. I was staying at a local’s house. Since Nepalis have certain beliefs about periods, I let them know and followed their guidance on what to do. I think it’s important for travelers to be mindful of the local customs and show respect. Also, dressing appropriately is important in order not to make anyone uncomfortable. I put a lot of value on having good ethics while traveling.

I also try to make sure my travels are as eco-friendly as possible. I’ve been making some conscious choices like avoiding wet wipes and using metal bottles instead of single-use plastic ones. When I’m camping, I always clean up the site before leaving and take all the trash with me. I’ve also minimized the use of packaged food. 

Nepal has evolved into a platform for international non-governmental organizations’ (INGOs) ‘revolutionary efforts’. These groups have been essential to the recovery of communities dealing with a range of issues because of their dedication to social justice and development. In Nepal, INGOs have been instrumental in resolving societal issues and promoting constructive change via their redemptive efforts. This article examines how these groups’ efforts not only result in social redemption but also act as a gentle prod to improve government accountability and also examines how INGOs work in Nepal to bring about good change and to act as a gentle prod, encouraging the government to take more responsibility.

INGOs in Nepal have been quick to respond to natural catastrophes and humanitarian emergencies by providing both short-term aid and long-term rehabilitation. Their redemptive endeavors go beyond catastrophe relief, exploring the fields of education, healthcare, reducing poverty, and empowering women. INGOs serve as agents of good change by tackling systemic problems and offering practical solutions. The education sector is one prominent area where INGOs have pushed the government toward accountability. These groups have built schools, supplied educational materials, and instituted teacher training programs; these actions have prepared the groundwork for a more comprehensive education system. 

The underlying message is very clear: Government accountability for providing high-quality education for all citizens is essential to the growth of society. INGOs have played a crucial role in bridging gaps and resolving imbalances in the healthcare sector. The construction of healthcare facilities, launch of public health initiatives, and distribution of necessary supplies all serve to highlight the dedication to enhancing public health. These activities subtly call on the government to give healthcare policy and infrastructure top priority because they understand the critical role that healthcare plays in ensuring population health. 

INGOs have moved into microfinance and poverty reduction efforts in an attempt to achieve economic redemption. These groups help to break the cycle of poverty by providing small enterprises with support, financial resources, and vocational training to local communities. The government is poignantly reminded of its responsibility to promote economic inclusiveness and sustainable development through the success of such programs. In Nepal, INGOs have taken the lead in questioning gender expectations and promoting women’s rights. Programs for women’s empowerment, from economic possibilities to education, strongly emphasize the value of inclusion. INGOs force the government to review and enhance laws that support women's rights and gender equality by doing this.

Obstacles and accountability

INGOs have made significant contributions, but there are still obstacles that need to be carefully considered, such as increasing reliance on them, coordination problems, and cultural sensitivity. Furthermore, the necessity of government accountability becomes increasingly evident when INGOs actively participate in community development. For lasting success, INGOs and the government must work together in a balanced manner. 

Even with INGO initiatives’ beneficial effects, problems still exist. Some opponents contend that local government mechanisms may unintentionally be weakened by INGOs’ influence. This necessitates striking a careful balance between bolstering domestic institutions and providing international assistance. #To guarantee sustainable development, there has to be open communication and accountability between INGOs and the government. Beyond its immediate effects on communities, INGOs’ redemption in Nepal also acts as a spur for government responsiveness and responsibility. Certain INGOs’ actions may be viewed as interfering with national sovereignty. This is especially true if it is believed that INGOs are imposing their objectives or dictating policies without taking into account the political, social and cultural environment of the nation.

An excessive dependence on INGOs for technical and financial support might lead to dependency. When INGO sponsorship wanes or changes in emphasis, the government may find it difficult to maintain programs and activities. INGOs may find it difficult to properly comprehend and honor the customs, social mores and cultural heritage of the area. Local communities may oppose projects that are in conflict with their cultural values. Certain non-governmental organizations may encounter censure due to their opaque operations, financial administration and decision-making procedures. This may give rise to questions regarding responsibility. 

INGOs encourage policy reforms, empower communities and address important social and economic concerns in order to push the government to be more inclusive, transparent and efficient. Collaboration between INGOs and the government will be crucial to ensuring sustainable and inclusive growth as Nepal continues on its development path. These groups act as a reminder to the government to fulfill its obligations as they support improvements in gender equality, healthcare, education and economic empowerment. 

Sustainable development necessitates a cooperative relationship between INGOs and the government so that the restoration of Nepal’s social fabric is a joint venture based on openness and responsibility. It is essential for INGOs and the government to work together harmoniously in order to build on past accomplishments and overcome future obstacles. They can steer Nepal in the direction of greater resilience, empowerment and accountability by working together. Redeeming efforts from INGOs in Nepal act as a little but powerful prod that encourages more transparency and responsive governance. Cooperation between INGOs and the government is essential as the country moves forward. This collaboration, which is based on open communication and common objectives, is essential to bringing about long-lasting improvement for the people of Nepal