CNSUK Webinar Discusses Political Participation of Nepalis in the UK

London: Panellists at the 12th edition of Nepal Dialogue UK, held on Saturday, 6 December 2025, have highlighted the comparatively low participation of the Nepali community in British politics, despite its growing population in the United Kingdom and intensive civic activities primarily focusing within the community. The monthly webinar was organised by the Centre for Nepal Studies UK (CNSUK).

Former councillor and Labour Party candidate in the 2017 UK parliamentary elections, Dr Bachchu Kailash Kaini, noted that although the Nepali population in the UK is often estimated at around 200,000, only about a dozen Nepalis have been elected as councillors. He further observed that no Nepali has yet attained senior executive positions such as council leader or cabinet member.

Liberal Democrat councillor Rojina Pradhan Rai identified the lack of visible role models as a major factor discouraging Nepalis from entering politics. She also pointed to the absence of a strong sense of belonging, viewing Britain as ‘our country’, along with limited interest in, and reluctance to take on, leadership roles, as key reasons for low political engagement.

Conservative councillor Lachhya Bahadur Gurung expressed the view that strong emotional ties to Nepal and greater trust in Nepali politics, combined with challenges in fully integrating into British society, have contributed to the community’s limited presence in UK political life.

Civil society member and community leader, Shibaji Shrestha remarked that even young people of Nepali origin show little interest in politics, partly due to a lack of encouragement from the adults. Emphasising the significant influence of ethnic minority votes in British politics, he added that limited confidence in the English language may also have hindered Nepalis from actively participating in political and civic activities.

Speakers collectively stressed that political engagement is not about personal fame or holding high office, but about responsibility, representation, and a commitment to public service. To be selected as a candidate requires years of investment; it is earned through taking responsibilities rather than simply making claims.

To enhance Nepali participation in British politics, participants emphasised the need to raise political awareness within the community, build cross-party cooperation among Nepali politicians, and learn from the experiences of other South Asian communities that have successfully entered UK politics. They also noted that British political parties offer mentoring and leadership development opportunities for ethnic minorities, which Nepalis should actively utilise.

The session was moderated by Naresh Khapangi Magar, Co-Convenor of Nepal Dialogue UK, and concluded with an interactive question-and-answer segment. The next Nepal Dialogue UK webinar is scheduled for 3 January, from 10:00 am to 11:30 am (UK time).

The full proceeding of the webinar can be watched through this link: