RSP outlines liberal welfare-state model, social market economy at first convention

Nepal's Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) has outlined a vision for a liberal welfare state and social market economy, solidifying its policy direction at its first party convention. The RSP positions itself as a pluralist democratic force dedicated to social justice, inclusive development, and equitable prosperity for all Nepalis.

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The RSP is neither left nor right, and it does not intend to remain confined within that polarisation. We prioritise practical, rational and reality-based approaches rather than rigid ideological frameworks.

At the convention, senior party leader and Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle presented a political-economic document emphasizing accountable, rule-based governance within a democratic republican system. This model advocates for a competitive social market economy bolstered by strong regulatory institutions. The party calls for sustainable resource mobilization, increased employment and national income, improved investment conditions, and the strengthening of social capital, while also stressing environmental balance and climate responsibility.

Party chair Rabi Lamichhane declared that the RSP has concluded the constitution should not be treated as a political ideology. Instead, the party has adopted social democracy as its core philosophy, moving beyond the traditional left-right political polarization. Lamichhane stated the RSP prioritizes "practical, rational and reality-based approaches rather than rigid ideological frameworks." He explained that while policies supporting private-sector growth might seem right-leaning and those on universal healthcare and education left-leaning, the RSP embraces a blended approach, including support for start-ups and labor rights.

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Policies supporting private-sector growth, investment and market competition may be viewed as right-leaning, while positions on universal access to health and education may be seen as left-leaning. Similarly, support for start-ups and labour rights, including minimum wages and social security, reflects a blended approach.

Lamichhane detailed the RSP's social democracy model, built on five pillars: a competitive liberal economy, the rule of law, a people-accountable government, a welfare state, and an inclusive and equitable society. The party reaffirmed its commitment to Nepal’s federal democratic republican system, viewing it as the only viable constitutional structure rooted in the nation's political experience and global democratic trends.

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The RSP’s version of social democracy rests on five pillars: a competitive liberal economy, rule of law, a people-accountable government, a welfare state, and an inclusive and equitable society.