By John Loudon

For the last four months, I have had the privilege of interning at Accountability Lab Nepal. The experience has been transformative, both personally and professionally, and it introduced me to some of the most brilliant, motivated and kind people I’ve ever met. The internship also provided me with valuable insights that I will take with me as I begin my master’s degree in Humanitarianism & Conflict Response at the University of Manchester.

Being from the United States, I have been drawn to Nepal over the last 9 years by its chaotic yet harmonious blend of ancient traditions and modern influences. Many foreigners find their patience and nerves tested by the noisy traffic, occasional power outages, spotty internet, pollution and overall lack of development in Nepal. However, to me, these challenges show the resourcefulness and perseverance of Nepali people. Their ability to navigate daily hardships with optimism and grace has taught me the importance of maintaining a positive outlook and being flexible in the face of uncertainty. These challenges that Nepalis face are also crucial to understanding the context in which Accountability Lab operates.

At Accountability Lab, the mission is to empower citizens to improve governance, promote evidence-based and inclusive decision-making, and enhance accountability in public offices and local communities. My role as an intern involved working on several projects and proposals aimed at enhancing transparency and encouraging civic participation. One of the highlights was participating in youth-led conferences that fostered dialogues around policymaking and government transparency. These events were eye-opening and revealed deep-rooted issues on governance and mistrust. Speakers and participants alike discussed the challenges that lie ahead, but also the immense potential for positive change through collective action.

One project that particularly fascinated me was the “Integrity Icon” campaign, which seeks to recognize and celebrate role models, or honest government officials who go beyond their call of duty. Though my time at Accountability Lab and the campaign schedule did not align, it was awesome to learn about a program that celebrates accountable, ethical bureaucrats in a country where corruption is the norm.

After spending two years here over the last 9 years, I realize that Nepal should be viewed through a dual lens. On one hand, it is widely celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and the friendliness of its people. On the other hand, though, it is a country burdened by poverty, high corruption, unstable politics, and limited opportunities for the youth. Amidst the beauty and the challenges the country faces, I found hope. Motivated youth leaders, dedicated civil society organizations, programs like Integrity Icon, and the efforts of Accountability Lab are setting new norms. They show that no matter how frustrating or dire the situation may seem, continuous struggle and building on what works is essential. For those who believe that positive change in Nepal is impossible, they are being proven wrong. Instead, they are being shown that perseverance and integrity can indeed make a difference.

As I prepare to begin my master’s degree, I carry with me the lessons learned and the memories made during my time at Accountability Lab. The experience has reinforced my interest in promoting ethical governance. It has also equipped me with practical skills and a nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in humanitarian work. While here, I have been constantly reminded of the importance of cultural sensitivity and respect in humanitarian work, reminding me that successful interventions need to be grounded in an understanding of local contexts and values. Thank you to Narayan and everyone at Accountability Lab for an incredible 4 months! I’m looking forward to meeting you all again someday.