Dialogue on Preventing Violence Against Women and Girls: Policies, Investment and Role of CSOs Kathmandu, December 8, 2023 In an effort to address the critical issues surrounding the upliftment of women and girls through the prevention of the gender-based violence, the NGO Federation of Nepal (NFN) organized a dialogue on the occasion of 16 Days Campaign against Gender-Based Violence. The event, titled "Prevention Violence Against Women and Girls: Policies, Investment and Role of CSOs" took place in Kathmandu and was presided over by Mr. Ram Prasad Subedi, the President of NFN. The program aimed to foster discussions on policies and investments necessary to empower women and girls in the country, acknowledging the pivotal role that Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) play in this endeavor. The event brought together key figures, experts, and stakeholders dedicated to promoting gender equality. Hon. Kiran Kumar Sah, the Chairperson of the Women and Social Affairs Committee of the Parliament, graced the occasion as the chief guest, emphasizing the government's commitment to advancing the rights and well-being of women. The program also welcomed Hon. Bishnu Maya Ojha, member of the Inclusive Commission as a special guest, further highlighting the urgency of activating the governmental bodies in driving positive change. The program initiated with the ice-breaking presentation from Bhawana Bhatta, Vice- president of NFN in which she delivered about the situation and status of the gender based violences in Nepal. She marked the point that still in the 21st century a female only make 77 cents of every $1 made by the male. Moreover, she shared that women from the age group of 19-25 are among the highest percentage among the victims of the gender based violences. Ms. Bhatta concluded her presentation sharing that the number of police complaints regarding the gender based violences has been increasing due to the rise in awareness and sensitivity among people. The plenary session featured discussions led by prominent individuals in the field. Nira Adhikari, Under Secretary of the Ministry of Women, Children, and Senior Citizens, shed light on the government's initiatives and policies. She shared her concern regarding the dismissal of the district level structures of the ministry. Ms. Shanta Laxmi Shrestha, representing civil society shared insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by CSOs in contributing to women's empowerment. She pin pointed that we all actors need to work together jointly regarding for the localization of the agenda and issues of the gender based violences. Mr. Sandesh Silpakar, Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) Focal Person of the Association of International NGOs (AIN), shared about the work of Development Partner Organizations in the work of minimizing the gender based violences. He stated,"Although the international organizations work with the local communities to combat the issue, they have the least influence on them." The panel discussion was followed by an open dialogue, allowing participants to share their perspectives, experiences, and recommendations. The dialogue program served as a platform for collaboration and coordination among stakeholders, fostering a collective effort to address gender-based violences. Mr. Ram Prasad Subedi, in his closing speech, expressed gratitude to all participants and emphasized the need for sustained efforts in implementing effective policies and investments to uplift women and girls in Nepal. The event concluded with a commitment to continued collaboration between the government, civil society, and other stakeholders, with the shared goal of creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all. The NGO Federation of Nepal's initiative marked a crucial step towards fostering positive change and promoting the rights and well-being of women and girls in the country.
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