The study found that local governments were not prioritizing data for planning processes, after 5 years of operation. Elected representatives tended to make populist decisions, ignoring data and evidence, which led to a disregard for data in decision-making. Lack of data literacy among stakeholders and a focus solely on infrastructure development contributed to limited investment in data governance. The failure to cultivate a culture of evidence-based decision making was observed at both the local and federal levels. The study also highlighted the lack of continuity in evidence-based practices and poor institutional memory in local units. Political interference and the influence of political leaders remained prevalent, undermining the use of data and evidence. Conflict between bureaucrats and elected representatives and poor coordination between different levels of government further hindered effective decision making and data sharing.

Read the full report https://www.d4dnepal.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/PEA-Report.pdf.