Study on the Roles of Subnational (Provincial and Local) Governments in Climate Actions in Lumbini Province (CA-003, 2025)

Implementing Organization: Clim Adapt

Supporter: IWMI

Project Context:

This study has been undertaken by Clim Adapt, in collaboration with the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) under Phase II of the Water Resilience Tracker (WRT) has carried out this study which examines how provincial and local governments in Lumbini Province are positioned to lead climate action, with a particular focus on climate-resilient water management and gender equality, disability, and social inclusion (GEDSI). The study has generated evidences to strengthen subnational climate governance, climate-resilient water management, and Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI)-responsive climate actions, while supporting the localization of Nepal’s climate policies and commitments.

Objective

The overall objective of the study focuses on strengthening subnational climate governance by assessing the policy, institutional, financial, and technical capacities of provincial and local governments, and identifying practical pathways for enhancing climate-resilient water management and GEDSI-responsive climate action in line with Nepal’s federal governance system and national climate priorities.

Specific Objectives

The specific objectives of the study include:

Assess scope and responsibilities: Review the mandates, roles, and potential of provincial and local governments in addressing climate change.
Evaluate institutional capacities: Assess institutional, financial, and technical capacities for designing, implementing, and monitoring GEDSI-responsive climate initiatives that support water resilience.
Identify opportunities and challenges: Analyze enabling and constraining factors that influence the mainstreaming and implementation of climate-related policies, strategies, and actions.
Recommend entry points: Propose practical strategies to strengthen inclusive subnational climate governance, enhance implementation capacity, and promote climate-resilient water resource management.