“Borderland Communities as Informal Diplomats: Their Contribution to Peace and Cooperation along the India-Nepal Border.”

Abstract

The India-Nepal border is one of the most distinctive international boundaries in South Asia due to its open-border arrangement and long-standing socio-cultural connections. Unlike many international borders that are characterized by strict controls, the India–Nepal border facilitates regular movement of people, goods, and services. The populations living in the border regions maintain close social, cultural, religious, and economic ties that often transcend political boundaries. While most studies on India–Nepal relations focus on state-level diplomacy, border disputes, and security concerns, limited attention has been paid to the role of borderland communities in sustaining bilateral relations. This study examines how border communities function as informal diplomatic actors by promoting cooperation, mutual trust, and peaceful interaction across the border. The paper argues that local communities play an important role in reducing tensions and strengthening people-to-people relations even during periods of political disagreement between the two countries. The study is based on qualitative analysis of secondary sources, including books, journal articles, policy reports, and government documents. It concludes that community-level engagement remains a significant factor in maintaining stability and cooperation along the India–Nepal border and should be integrated into future border governance policies.