In September 2025, "Gen-Z Protests" fueled by frustrations with governance, corruption and economic opportunity toppled Nepal's government. As the country's interim leaders prepare for March elections, questions remain about addressing the root causes of youth frustration. The country has made substantial progress since its civil war, but much work remains. Dr. Annamaria Prati (New York University) joins the pod to discuss her research on strengthening state capacity through monitoring by local community leaders.

For more on Annamaria's research see: https://afprati.github.io/

Newly-arrived CAD doctoral fellow Khasan Redjaboev joins the pod to discuss his research on governance in Central Asia, with a special focus on Soviet colonial legacies in the region. What are the prospects for democratization in the region, and how do regimes maintain their legitimacy? How do Soviet-era agricultural policies continue to impact the region's politics, especially related to gender? How has China's geopolitical rise recast the region's politics? Khasan's research brings this diverse region into focus.

Why did the Dalai Lama's 90th birthday celebrations get international headlines? The observances involved not only communal celebration, but also important announcements from the Dalai Lama about his future reincarnation, a matter of both spiritual and political significance. The future of the Dalai Lama is central not only to the Tibetan community, but also to Chinese interests and the balance of power in Asia. Dr. Tenzin Dorjee (Columbia University) joins the pod to discuss how his research helps make sense of the Dalai Lama's 90th birthday.

For more on Tendor's research see:

https://www.foreignaffairs.com/china/beijings-dangerous-game-tibet

https://www.nonviolent-conflict.org/blog_post/dying-in-the-truth-closer-look-at-self-immolations-freedom-struggles/

https://www.tenzindorjee.net/