The Cabinet has approved a bachelor’s degree in any subject as the minimum qualification for candidates aspiring Nepal ambassador’s post.

This is significantly lower than the mandatory master’s degree proposed by the Foreign Affairs Ministry’s (MoFA). Pressure from loyalists aspiring ambassadorial positions compelled lowering the minimum qualifications, said one minister.

A master’s degree should be the minimum qualification the Supreme Court (SC) had told the government.

The government on Sunday stipulated a dozen minimum criteria, including command over English language, character and knowledge of the country the ambassador seeks posting. Proficiency in major international languages would be desirable, not mandatory, for candidates aspiring ambassador’s job, but the Cabinet has amended, according to the sources.

The candidate should not have criminal record, filed for bankruptcy and black listed by any state agency. The norms bar those with active membership of a political party or associated with an NGO that receives funds from particular donor or country.

The norms bar recent returnees from international postings or those with experience in INGOs or international organizations. Whether a political appointee or career diplomat, the criteria apply to all, the ministry said.

The Cabinet also decided to appoint ambassadors three months in advance.

At present, positions in Nepal’s several missions, including in India, Malaysia, United Arab Emirates and New York, have been vacant for long after the incumbent ambassador completes his/her tenure.

The latest norms are according to the SC mandamus issued to the government on April 19.