I like to watch documentaries of young Nepali filmmakers

Born in Hamburg, Germany, Verma has previously worked at the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in New York. After human rights, she started working with UNHCR to protect refugees. He has held various international protection and legal positions in the Department of International Protection and the Asia Bureau and the Africa Bureau at UHHCR headquarters in Morocco, Malaysia, Indonesia, North Macedonia, Bulgaria and Geneva. Edited part of a conversation with UNHCR's Nepal-Representative Verma about Nepal, its environment, geography, language, literature, festivals, etc. When did you come to Nepal for the first time and what is your experience of Nepal? When I visited Nepal in September 2019, I was immediately captivated by its extraordinary beauty. I fell in love with the hills and mountains of Nepal. Little did I know that my journey would coincide with the onset of Covid-19. Despite the challenges of the epidemic, I persevered and traveled mostly to Koshi Province, which is also in the eastern part of Nepal. I was very satisfied after reaching Pathri Shanishchere in Morang district and Beldangi Bhutanese refugee settlement in Jhapa district and meeting local and state government officials and refugees there. Human compassion and determination were evident amidst the challenges. During the upheaval brought by the Covid-19, the natural beauty of Nepal comforted me. The warm climate of Koshi was a welcome change from the cold climate of Kathmandu. The beautiful mountains around Kathmandu valley have given me a lot of enthusiasm and I have been climbing these mountains since Saturday. Breathtaking scenery and Nepali hiking companions made every trip memorable. The beauty of Nepal cannot be described in words. I am forever grateful for that.

You have met many people while working in Nepal. How did you find the people of Nepal?

My trip to Nepal during the Covid-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdown proved the tenacity and adaptability of the human spirit. As the world is changing to virtual communication, I was surprised that my Nepali partners were able to adopt this type of technology and virtual network very quickly. Short and polite WhatsApp messages promote cooperation and sharing, showing solidarity and cooperation. In the team meeting held on mobile phones, there were conversations with many government officials. I am humbled by the kindness and determination of all the Nepalis I met during this journey. Their unwavering commitment to tireless work, often late into the night and weekdays

Working even on the last day showed that they have a strong sense of responsibility and compassion. With the support of many Nepali partners, the government and civil society, we ensured access to essential public health services, vaccinations and other services for refugees. It is a testament to the power of collaboration, and the limitless capacity of the human race to overcome challenges.

How do you like Nepal's weather?

Every morning the sun greets me with its light and in the afternoon it gives me light with a warm embrace. I've never seen such constant sunshine in any other country I've worked in - it's a daily blessing that makes me happy and grateful. In my hometown of Hamburg, there is a saying - 'The weather is not bad, only the wrong choice of clothes is bad.' Embracing this mentality, I have learned to appreciate every season, weather, and I especially like Nepal's winter and monsoon months. Very cold and most rainy Even

days can be turned into beautiful opportunities to enjoy the charm of nature by dressing appropriately. Every day in this region of perpetual sunshine reminds me of the essential joys of life.

How did you like Nepalese food? Which dish did you like the most?

My answer may not be surprising but I have to admit that I really like dalbhat. There is something extraordinary about its simplicity and the nourishment it provides. So it has become my everyday food without hesitation. A great example is enjoying dalbhat in Nepal, where vegetarian food is popular. Local vegetables and fruits found in Nepal add flavor and freshness to every meal. From delicious avocados, bitter gourds and spinach to juicy oranges and sweet Malbhog bananas, I am amazed by Nepal's exceptional quality produce. Every bite combines the taste of Nepali food with Nepali hospitality, which infuses the culture and cuisine in every meal.

What do you understand about the customs of Nepal?

My favorite Nepali greeting is Namaste. This sweet feeling, as I give and receive, always warms my heart. Despite the restrictions caused by Covid-19, there was no change in the spirit of Namaste, which reflects its timeless importance. Namaste is ubiquitous and that's what I love most about Namaste. Namaste transcends every culture and makes me feel at home wherever I go. A hello with a smile is a simple yet powerful act of kindness that can brighten anyone's day.

Did you celebrate Nepal's festival? Which festival did you like?

of course. I love the festivals of Nepal, especially Dasain and Tihar. During Dasain and Tihar, people across the city have a sense of unity and camaraderie. It gives the impression that the normal routine has stopped for a moment. I enjoy the lights, decorations and mellow tunes of traditional music in the streets and alleys. These programs also give me experience of Nepali culture and tradition. And deepens my admiration for this beautiful nation.

Do you like to speak Nepali language? Do you know how many languages ​​are there in Nepal?

There are more than 120 languages ​​in Nepal, which shows the cultural, religious and linguistic diversity of Nepal. I have also learned some Nepali and am still learning. Learning the language of the country you live in is different. It helps to understand and appreciate Nepal and its people. I wish I had learned the language from the beginning, but now I am very happy to embrace the Nepali language.

Have you heard Nepali songs? Do you have a favorite song?

When I listen to the lyrics of 'Resam Firiri', it takes me to a world of joy, celebration and harmony. Its melody that takes me to a different world calms my mind, encourages me. It reminds me of the eternal beauty and strength of the Nepali spirit and the refugees I work with. Not surprisingly, Nepal is very generous to refugees. Who has to leave the beauty depicted in Resom Firiri in his own homeland. Another song that I often listen to and that touches my heart is a song by the Nepali rock band Albatross called 'Afnai Sanganda Kin'.

Are you familiar with Nepali literature? Have a favorite piece?

I like the works of the famous writer Parijat very well and he has left an impression on me. Parijat's writings are powerful expressions of endurance and bravery of Nepali women and the marginalized in society. He touches the heart of refugees forced to flee their homes and relatives due to brutality and atrocities. Parijat bravely explores the complexities of loss, longing and love in her thought-provoking writings. It reflects the complex journey of refugees on the move, managing exile and uncertainty. If I had to choose one person to sit in a time machine and talk to, I would choose Parijat.

Have you seen a Nepali movie?

I don't watch movies that much. In particular, enjoying the breathtaking beauty of Nepal's nature and the lively streets of Kathmandu, the film does not leave you alone. There are so many incredible scenes to watch, I don't think it's fair to limit myself to going to the theater and sitting in the seat watching the movie. However, I love watching documentaries made by young Nepalese filmmakers. I really like documentaries that depict the natural beauty and culture and the environmental changes that Nepal is facing.

Which places in Nepal have you visited? Which place do you like?

It is a privilege to call Nepal home. My work in Nepal brings me to refugees all over the country. During my stay here, I have frequently visited places like Koshi Pradesh, Pokhara, Mustang. There I meet Bhutanese and Tibetan refugees. In addition, my team and I have regular meetings with IDPs from various backgrounds. These meetings are driven not only by professional necessity, but also by a passion for developing direct relationships, understanding refugees' needs, problems, and proposing solutions. The beauty of working at the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees is that we connect directly with those people. That's what we work for. Second, after the lockdown due to covid-19, Nepal has allowed me to walk on my own path to study mountains and nature.

You know that Nepal is rich in art and culture. What do you say about the art and culture of Nepal?

What I love most about Nepal's art and culture is the dynamic mix that permeates every aspect. It is a beautiful blend of diverse influences – the blend of religion and culture, the blend of architectural styles in temples or the harmonious interplay of vibrant colors in traditional art. Moreover, the art and culture of Nepal connects the past and the present, the generations and enhances the sense of belonging and pride. We see the same passion for art and craft preservation among refugees in Nepal. I grew up in Hamburg. Drawing, painting and crafts were highly valued by my family and teachers in the environment there. I greatly appreciate the creativity of so many Nepalis. I appreciate the efforts made in the restoration of the old houses and I honestly say that the old skills and craftsmanship of the Nepalis should be maintained and preserved.

What is the role of UNHCR in Nepal to protect the rights of refugees?

UNHCR's mission is to protect refugees, regardless of nationality, without any discrimination and to seek solutions to their problems. It works by supporting the government of the country concerned to establish systems for the protection of refugees, ideally by adopting refugee policies and laws and providing humanitarian assistance as appropriate. That too, HNHCR works during special emergencies. An essential right of refugees is to be protected by the principle of 'non-refoulement'. This means that no refugee can be returned to their country of origin against their will. Tibetan and Bhutanese refugees from Nepal arrived 30 to 60 years ago. Between 2007-2016, more than 135,000 Bhutanese refugees in Nepal benefited from the group resettlement program. In a situation where voluntary repatriation is impossible, UNHCR has been supporting the government of Nepal with public services and refugees in Nepali society. Now there are less than 20 thousand refugees left in Nepal.

How is UNHCR working with the government of Nepal?

UNHCR-Nepal is working closely with federal, provincial and local governments to integrate refugee protection and solutions into public services, including education, health and social security. UNHCR has been supporting Nepal's health and education infrastructure for years. In 2017, UNHCR converted the original seven Bhutanese refugee camps into two settlements in Jhapa and Morang districts. Settlements and roads were strengthened. Provided electricity from solar energy. and, enhanced refugee capacity through organizations in the refugee community. UNHCR conducts regular awareness and capacity building programs for relevant government officials. Over the past few years, UNHCR has invested in skills development and livelihood opportunities for refugees and the Nepali communities they are connected to. We are focusing on strengthening the linkages between skills, refugee handicrafts and other products in the market to achieve true self-sufficiency. In addition to the excellent government support we received, we partnered with civil society, the private sector, UN sister organizations and refugees. This is a wide range of partnerships that UNHCR has developed in Nepal to help address the refugee issue. UHHHCR is aware that all refugees in Nepal should receive governmental identity, documents and birth registration. Refugees can improve and contribute to the Nepali society with government documents.

Picture: Pollination Timillena / Kantipur