One month after the series of earthquakes that devastated many parts of Nepal, the welter of challenges to rescue, rehabilitate and rebuild the country is turning increasingly complex. From the influx of aid and its proper distribution to the thousands still confined in relief shelters to the task of starting from ground zero in order to put the communities back on their feet via housing and resettlement, Nepal is facing gargantuan challenges at every step. The immediate need is for international aid agencies and the government of Nepal to formulate an effective strategy that coordinates their relief and rebuilding efforts. At the moment, the two entities are working independent of each other, which is proving to be ineffective for the thousands looking to everyday help.
Another pressing problem is the insidious human trafficking taking place in the aftermath of the destabilisation. Nepal must ensure that it prevents its vulnerable and displaced masses from being lured into child labour or prostitution. While the task of rebuilding itself is inarguably a mammoth one, Nepal must also ensure that it protects its most valuable asset — its people — in the process.
