Electoral integrity and reform in Nepal: Examining dominance dynamics and the evolving role of women in democracy

The role of women in Nepal's democracy is a central theme, as gender equality in political representation remains a pressing concern. Despite constitutional guarantees and reserved quotas, women in Nepal face significant obstacles, from cultural biases to systemic barriers, which limit their influence in political spaces. This paper analyzes the effectiveness of existing reforms and the critical need for inclusive policies that empower women and other marginalized groups. Drawing on case studies and comparative analysis with other democracies, the paper offers recommendations for enhancing electoral integrity and advancing gender equality in Nepal. This paper explores the dynamics of electoral reforms, integrity, and power dominance in modern democracies, focusing on the evolving role of women within Nepal's political landscape. Nepal, a young democracy with a complex socio-political fabric, has made strides in reforming its electoral processes. However, challenges such as political dominance by elites, corruption issues, and participation barriers persist. This study examines how these factors shape Nepal's democracy and evaluates the impact of electoral reforms on democratic integrity.