ASTHA Nepal has been actively engaged in research and policy advocacy, promoting participatory governance and social accountability through projects like LGAF, SALG, and the Centre for Development Studies and Policy Advocacy. The organization has worked with CSOs, media, and communities to promote transparency, improve civic engagement, and monitor local governance processes. Amid Nepal’s transition to federal governance, the gap between policy and grassroots realities persists. ASTHA aims to bridge this through data-driven advocacy, localized research, and the promotion of inclusive governance practices. Future plans include strengthening evidence-based policy engagement, facilitating community-led monitoring systems, and influencing policy reforms on issues such as climate resilience, social inclusion, and livelihood development.
Projects under Research and policy Advocacy
• Social Accountability of Local Government (SALG)
Donor: SDC/MoLD | Cost: NRs. 225.6M | Duration: 2013–2017
• Local Governance & Accountability Facility (LGAF)
Donor: MoFALD | Cost: NRs. 30.7M | Duration: 2010–2012
• Local Governance and Community Development Program (LGCDP-II)
Donor: GoN | Cost: NRs. 0.3M/year | Duration: 2015–Ongoing