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The Sustainable Development Goals in Nepal
Nepal committed to the SDGs early on, and this commitment has been reaffirmed in key policy documents, such as the current 15th Development Plan and the 25 Year Long-Term Vision 2100 that internalises the Goals. SDGs codes are assigned for all national development programmes through the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework. Further, Nepal has prepared the SDG Status and Roadmap to localize the SDG indicators with baselines and targets for 2030. Other key documents are a SDGs Needs Assessment, a Costing and Financing Strategy, and additional SDGs Localization Guidelines. Finally, Nepal has conducted a Development Finance Assessment (DFA) to provide an overview of development finance flows and institutions and policies that can align finance with national development priorities. These are the goals the UN is working on in Nepal:
Publication
11 March 2026
International Women’s Day 2026
On International Women’s Day 2026, under the global theme “Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls,” we reaffirm our shared commitment to advancing women’s and girls’ access to justice. There is not a single country where women and girls enjoy equal access to justice. At the current pace, it will take 286 years to get there. Nepal is no exception. As the global community convenes for the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70), we are reminded that progress requires more than promises, it demands action. From strengthening legal protections to dismantling systemic barriers, we must work collectively so that every woman and girl can claim her rights, seek justice, and thrive in dignity and equality. Today, and every day, we stand for rights. We stand for justice. And we commit to bold, transformative action for all women and girls.#IWD2026 #RightsJusticeAction #CSW70 #ForAllWomenAndGirls #Nepal
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Press Release
09 February 2026
UN Resident Coordinator Lila Peters Yahia Presents her Credentials to Rt. Honorable Prime Minister of Nepal Sushila Karki
Following her official appointment as United Nations Resident Coordinator in Nepal by the UN Secretary-General António Guterres, with the approval of the Government of Nepal, Ms. Pieters Yahia of Canada today presented her credentials, marking the formal commencement of her mandate in the country.Upon presenting her credentials, Ms. Pieters Yahia commended Nepal’s sustained leadership in advancing global peace and security, notably as the largest troop-contributing country to UN peacekeeping. She also underscored the United Nations’ partnership with Nepal in accelerating progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030 and in supporting the realization of the country’s 16th national plan and priorities for inclusive growth, resilience, sustainable development, digital transformation, and expanded opportunities for young people.“It is an honour to lead the United Nations’ team in Nepal at this important moment for the country. In my meeting today with Her Excellency the Prime Minister, I reaffirmed the United Nations’ respect for Nepal’s sovereign democratic processes and peaceful, credible elections. We discussed national priorities, including expanding employment opportunities for young people so they can build their future at home rather than migrating out of necessity, advancing peace, inclusion and sustainable development, and strengthening resilience to acute climate vulnerability despite Nepal’s negligible emissions. The United Nations remains fully committed to supporting these priorities and ensuring that no one is left behind,” she said.Ms. Pieters Yahia brings over 25 years of experience across development and humanitarian contexts in senior management and strategic leadership roles. She most recently served as the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Mauritania.
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Story
27 June 2025
Building an inclusive economy through women-led businesses
At dawn in Belauri Municipality, northeastern Nepal, the rustle of vegetable leaves and the hum of water pumps signal the start of another productive day for Nisha Devi Chaudhary. Once dependent on her husband’s migrant remittances, she now grows seasonal vegetables like cabbage, chilies and tomatoes on her family’s land, which spans about 1,000 square metres.After completing a vocational training in vegetable farming supported by the Empowered Women, Prosperous Nepal (EWPN) programme, she gained new agricultural skills, access to organic inputs and market information. Today, she earns USD 260 to 300 per month, an increase in income after EWPN’s intervention. She is now planning to lease more land to expand her farm.“I no longer wait for money to come from abroad. I am earning with my own hands and feeding my family with what I grow,” she says, standing proudly next to her in-progress tunnel farm, partially funded by a seed grant from the programme. Chaudhary’s story is not just a personal triumph, it is emblematic of a broader shift sweeping across Nepal. As the country prepares for graduation from Least-Developed Country (LDC) status in 2026, its path to inclusive economic growth increasingly hinges on the empowerment of women like her. And the role of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), particularly those led by women, is central to this transformation. Anchored on SDG 5 (on gender equality), SDG 8 (on decent work and economic growth) and SDG 10 (on reduced inequalities), Nepal’s transition will only be sustainable and irreversible if it is gender responsive.Across Madhesh, Karnali and Sudurpaschim Provinces, women’s voices are influencing local economic decisions, shaping municipal plans and claiming their space in markets. In Belauri, a group of 16 women has turned a local opportunity into an enterprise by producing traditional sweets and snacks near the scenic Shova Lake, linking their products to the region’s emerging tourism value chain. Supported by the EWPN programme with training and business coaching, the group has also formed a savings and credit association to reinvest in their venture.“We save every month and decide together how to grow our business. This is not just about income, it is about our unity and our decision-making power,” shares Rita Chaudhary, one of the women entrepreneurs.In Birgunj, a group of 20 women trained in stitching now produce school uniforms in a workspace constructed and equipped by their local ward office. Their products are directly linked to the Government’s school uniform distribution programme, providing them with stable income while fulfilling a public need.“Before, I used to earn a little. Now, I work full-time with dignity. My uniform goes to children who could not afford one otherwise. That makes me proud,” says Khusboo Kumari Patel, a member of the stitching group.These achievements reflect the systemic change that EWPN was designed to catalyse. As of May 2025, 569 women, primarily from marginalized and underserved communities out of 1,500 targeted participants across the three provinces have received Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training-certified vocational training in agriculture, textile, arts and food-based trades complemented by business coaching, seed funding and market linkages support. Many of them come from historically marginalized communities: Dalit, Janajati, Muslim, Madhesi and returnee migrant households with limited income, land and formal education. Of the 136 women trained through the programme, 39 per cent have already launched or expanded income-generating activities with support from local institutions and value chain actors.Beyond economic gains, EWPN-supported opportunities are shifting social dynamics and power relations within households and communities. As women begin earning and contributing to household income, they are stepping into new roles as decision-makers and community leaders.“Once I started earning, I found the confidence to speak up at home and in community meetings. Now, I feel my voice is heard,” says Saraswati Sunar, from Birendranagar, who now co-manages a collective turmeric farm after training through the EWPN programme. “This used to be the shed where I stayed during menstruation, isolated because of an old tradition,” says Khagisara Acharya Karki, a poultry farmer from Dailekh. “Now, it’s where I raise chickens and run my business. EWPN didn’t just help me earn, it helped me leave behind a harmful practice and reclaim my space.”Several women have gone on to lead savings groups, advocate for community services and represent their cooperatives in local dialogues. In doing so, they are actively influencing decisions that affect their lives and communities. By positioning women as visible economic actors, the programme is not only strengthening the economic security and rights of women but also challenging entrenched gender norms.To enable this shift, EWPN partners with federal, provincial and local governments to embed inclusive economic models into policy and practice. In Dhangadi, for example, the local government launched a weekly women’s market, offering 75 stalls to women entrepreneurs from informal sectors. Technical support from EWPN ensured gender-sensitive design and operational guidance, turning policy into real economic opportunity.The programme also facilitated the provision of equipment through local cooperatives and farmer associations, promoted digital finance training and supported inclusive planning processes ensuring that women were not just beneficiaries but co-creators of their communities’ economic future.With continued commitment, these systemic supports will ensure that gains made under EWPN become a springboard, not a ceiling, for Nepal’s inclusive growth.In Birendranagar, Sushila Tharu stands at the doorway of the Patalganga Tharu Community Homestay, welcoming visitors with quiet pride. For over six years, the initiative has not only created income, but built identity and dignity for Tharu women in her community. Through the EWPN-supported 18-day hospitality and culinary training, she and other women enhanced their skills, experimented with authentic Tharu recipes, and deepened their understanding of cultural tourism.“I no longer have to ask my husband for money,” she says. “This homestay has shown our community and ourselves that when women are given the opportunity, we lead.” Looking beyond 2026, UN Women Nepal envisions a resilient national economy where women-led MSMEs are not exceptions, but anchors.About the programme: Empowered Women, Prosperous Nepal is a four-year joint initiative (2023–2026) by the Government of Nepal, the European Union and the United Nations to advance gender equality and inclusive economic growth. The programme is implemented by four UN agencies (ILO, UNFPA, UNICEF and UN Women) across Madhesh, Karnali and Sudurpaschim Provinces, in close partnership with all levels of government.
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Story
30 December 2024
From Bondage to Business:
In the heart of Kanchanpur’s Belauri Municipality, 16 determined women historically marginalized Kamaiya group—have rewritten their futures with the sizzling sounds of snacks and sweets. Until recently, these women had limited opportunities. The remnants of the Kamaiya bonded labour system still cast long shadows, restricting their access to resources and economic independence. But change began to take root in late 2024, when the Empowered Women, Prosperous Nepal (EWPN) programme joined hands with Belauri Municipality, the Sobhataal Protection Group, and local leaders to support the economic empowerment of these women These women recently completed a 1.5-months intensive training in fast food preparation, thanks to a partnership between the EWPN, local government and the Sobhataal Protection Group. These aspiring entrepreneurs were not just learning to cook; they were learning to dream. With support from EWPN, and leadership of Ward Member Kripa Ram Chaudhary and Ward Chairman Lal Bahadur Chaudhary, the women were equipped with culinary skills, confidence, and hope. Sobhataal—once just a local secret—is emerging as tourism destination which is also prioritized in the plan of the local government. With rising visitor numbers came a glaring gap: no food outlets to serve hungry travellers. Seizing the opportunity, EWPN in partnership with Belauri Municipality, ward no-5 stepped in with the interventions: empower local women to start fast food counters right at the lake. EWPN provided cooking equipment and kitchen utensils, forming the “Sobhataal Women Entrepreneur’s Group” which was further complemented by local government through other logistics support equivalent of NPR 100,000. With this support, the women—once limited by systemic barriers—are now running business, serving freshly made snacks to weekend crowds. It’s not just a business; it’s a movement-says the leader of the ‘Sobhataal Women Entrepreneurs’ group. According to her, they are running the business everyday where they take charge of business on a rotational basis. Average weekly income of NPR 5000 Inspired by the group business, two of the training participants from other ward also started similar business, embarking on their entrepreneurial journey. These women are setting role models for the rest of the community women to step out from their household chores and join labour market for increased voice, agency and choice. The Belauri Municipality prepares for an official inauguration of the weekly market in Shobataal to provide market opportunity for local produce for more women from the community. This upcoming event aims to spotlight not just economic empowerment, but the transformative power of community-led development. With plans to expand services to weekdays and draw in more local tourists, these women are becoming symbols of resilience and innovation. Sobhataal is no longer just a place of natural beauty—it’s a stage where women rise, lead, and thrive. Looking ahead, the story doesn't end here. Building on this momentum, UN Women plans to work closely with the International Labour Organization (ILO) to help these and other aspiring women entrepreneurs strengthen their businesses. Women who show interest and readiness will be supported through ILO’s “Start and Improve Your Business (SIYB)” training, providing them with practical tools and guidance to grow and sustain their enterprises.
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Story
26 December 2024
Breaking the Cycle: Kamala and Saraswati's Journey from Tradition to Transformation
Early marriage was simply a part of life for Kamala Khadka. She herself was married at just 11 years old to a boy barely four years older. Growing up, she never questioned the practice—it was considered normal in her community. So, when her 15-year-old daughter Saraswati upset her, Kamala’s go-to threat was always the same: "I’ll marry you off and let you face what marriage brings."Those words stung deeply. "It hurt me every time she said that" Saraswati recalled with sadness.Everything changed when Kamala joined the Rupantaran parent’s sessions under the Empowered Women, Prosperous Nepal (EWPN) initiative, facilitated by UNICEF. This program was designed for parents of students attending Rupantaran sessions in schools to discuss and reflect on issues affecting young girls, including the struggles of early marriage.During these sessions, Kamala learned from facilitators and other parents that child marriage not only violates the law but can have devastating consequences. For the first time, she connected the hardships she had endured in her own life to early marriage. "I lost my husband when I was very young and had to raise three children on my own. If I had been educated, I could have earned enough to support my family, but marriage robbed me of that chance. Instead, I was burdened with household chores and faced immense mental stress," shared Kamala. "Now I realize that marrying Saraswati off won’t solve problems, it will only ruin her future. Considering the facts, I’ve stopped pushing for early marriage and want better for her."Meanwhile, Saraswati, now in Grade 9, regularly attends the Rupantaran sessions. These sessions teach students about the harms of early marriage, equality, and mutual respect among peers. "One day, I want to become a teacher and conduct Rupantaran sessions just like this to raise awareness about early marriage," says Saraswati. The mother and daughter both now share conversations about what they learn from their respective sessions, deepening their bond and reshaping their outlook on life.Child marriage continues to be practiced in various parts of Nepal, robbing children—especially girls—of their rights, education, and future opportunities. To combat this harmful tradition, the Empowered Women, Prosperous Nepal (EWPN) programme, a joint effort by the Government of Nepal, the European Union, and the United Nations, is supporting Rupantaran parent’s sessions and Rupantaran life skills sessions across the across multiple municipalities in the Karnali, Sudurpaschim, and Madhesh provinces.The initiative not only raises awareness about key social issues but also aims to equip school dropouts with skill development training through programs led by UN Women and ILO.
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Story
11 March 2026
A path for more women to enter Nepal’s police force
In Nepal’s Terai region, rows of young women run, train and study at police coaching centres in Bardibas. They are preparing for one of the country’s most competitive professions, with the Nepal Police.Women remain significantly underrepresented in policing nationwide. Although a national mandate sets a target of 33 per cent women in the force, they currently make up just under 12 per cent. Social norms, limited access to information and structural barriers continue to discourage women, particularly those from rural and marginalized communities, from pursuing a career in law enforcement.This shortfall has consequences. As reports of violence against women and children rise, many survivors struggle to access justice. A lack of women officers undermines trust, contributing to underreporting and unresolved cases.In response, UNOPS with the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), is working with communities and institutions to support women’s entry into the Nepal Police and strengthen inclusive policing. Addressing entrenched stereotypesMuskan’s story began before she stepped onto the training ground. Across Madhesh, Lumbini and Karnali provinces, UNOPS supported awareness sessions in villages, schools and homes, focusing on women’s roles in policing and community safety.For many families, the idea was unfamiliar, even uncomfortable. Policing has long been seen as a man’s job, especially in rural areas where women’s mobility and career choices are often restricted.Yet interest grew. More than 560 young women, mainly aged 15-28, attended the sessions. By the end, most participants said they would either consider joining the police themselves or support a female family member who wanted to. Communities also expressed more positive views about women police officers and the role they play in building trust between police and the public.These early shifts in perception laid the groundwork, but awareness alone was not enough. “The coaching helped me believe in myself, understand the exam system and prepare in a focused way. Today, my selection is not only my success but sends a message to other girls from communities like mine that policing is possible for us, the women of Madhesh.”- Muskan Mandal - Muskan Mandal, one of the newly selected women police constables.Why women in policing matter in NepalWomen police officers play a critical role in responding to gender-based violence, supporting survivors and strengthening community trust. When women are absent from the force, many women hesitate to report crimes or seek help.“When a woman shares her story with another woman, she feels heard, not judged,” says one trainee. “I want to be that person who listens and acts.”Yet recruitment remains difficult. Families worry about safety, long hours and social stigma. Many young women lack confidence or access to preparation for competitive exams, particularly physical fitness tests. Targeted support for recruitment and retentionThrough the FCDO-funded Security and Justice Programme, UNOPS provided practical support to address these barriers. This included door-to-door outreach with families, skills workshops, and structured coaching for written and physical exams. Residential coaching camps offered safe spaces for training and peer support.From 57 trainees, 18 women passed the written exams and 14 were selected for the police force. Ten came from marginalized communities. One Dalit* woman placed first nationally in the open competition, marking a significant milestone.For Muskan’s family, the impact was immediate.“My daughter is strong. She is not just joining the police, she is making history in our community, she will set an example for her other sisters,” says her father from Janakpur. Living in poverty, he chose to support his daughter’s ambitions despite the risks.Participating women are gaining financial independence, leadership opportunities and visibility in public life. Their progress is strengthening families and reshaping communities.What comes next?The programme also highlights remaining gaps, including the need for inclusive recruitment strategies, expanded outreach in remote areas and gender-responsive policies within the police force.This work goes beyond recruitment. It reflects a broader effort to reshape policing in Nepal, one where women play a visible role in public safety, justice and community trust.More women are stepping into roles once closed to them and helping build safer, more inclusive communities in the process.
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Story
10 March 2026
Calming the waters with climate action
Lalita Dhimal and her family of four live on the banks of the Telikhola River, which flows through a populated area, called Urlabari, in Nepal’s Churia Hills at the southern edge of the Himalayas. Every year, heavy rains brought on by the summer monsoon season cause devastating floods in this area. The rapid waters of the overflowing river destroy farmland and homes, ruining lives and livelihoods.“When we first came to this place, the settlement was very small and the river was very destructive," said Dhimal. "The torrents filled with stones, rocks, and uprooted trees ruined our crops.” Unpredictable rainfall, extreme weather events, and other climate change-related hazards pose an additional threat to vulnerable communities living around the forested river ecosystem. But stabilizing riverbanks offers a life-saving solution.Using bioengineering technologies, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Government of Nepal have helped communities build over 150 riverbank stabilization structures that enhance resilience to flooding.These efforts are part of the Building a Resilient Churia Region in Nepal (BRCRN) project, jointly implemented by FAO and Nepal’s Ministry of Forests and Environment, with the support of the Green Climate Fund (GCF), which promotes climate-resilient land-use practices for more resilient ecosystems and communities."We use locally available materials like soil and mud to build these embankments. These methods are also known to be less expensive," explained Raj Kumar Gupta, Coordinator of the Provincial Project Management Unit. Carefully placed rocks and stones also create a protective barrier on the slopes of riverbanks, while grass turfing helps blend the structure into the environment.Safe passage for elephantsStabilizing the Telikhola’s riverbanks has also helped reduce human-wildlife conflict by preventing elephants from entering human settlements. The Telikhola River lies on the migratory route of elephants who often travel through the forests of southern Nepal and adjacent forests in India."In the past, elephants used to come right up to our house. We could do nothing but beat drums in the hope of scaring them away," said Dhimal. "But ever since the embankment was constructed, the elephants have not been able to cross over into human settlements."For Dhimal and her family, the heavy rains are no longer a harbinger of destruction. “Now, when the river swells during the monsoon, it doesn’t enter the settlement,” she says with confidence. "We don't have such problems anymore, the embankment has benefitted us."Protecting homes and harvestsThe embankments have played a vital role in protecting homes, farmland, and livelihoods in nearby towns, such as Janabasti. Here, mostly poor farmers who planted rice and maize on the riverbanks as sustenance for the entire year were usually forced to watch helplessly as the river flooded crops on the brink of harvest every year."This year, thanks to the embankment, the river flowed along its course, and the farmers were able to harvest their crops and enjoy the fruits of their labour," said Rajan Kumar Kandel, Chair of Ward 2, in the Urlabari municipality. He noted that the farmers "were grateful."In another town, called Sisneri Thapa Khahare, the river’s raging waters after heavy rains would displace residents. "When the river rose in monsoon, we didn't sleep. We kept a watch on the bank with torchlights on, ready to run at any moment," explained Prem Bahadur Thokar, Chair of Embankment Building Committee in Sisneri Thapa Khahare.But displaced families started going back to their homes when they saw the protective benefits of natural embankments. "These days we are able to sleep through monsoon rains," said Thokar.From upstream to downstreamThese structures also protect lands further downstream. "My house is in imminent danger every time the river floods. But what is not so apparent is that the floods can turn hundreds of acres of adjacent land barren," said Moti Prasad Phuyal, a villager from Dhobikhola. But once the riverbanks had been stabilized as part of the BRCRN project, he noticed that his house and farmland were better protected. Conservation efforts upstream have a huge positive impact downstream. Stabilizing riverbank structures has not only protected lives and livelihoods, but also helped conserve soil, water, and surrounding ecosystems, helping humans live in harmony with nature.In total, 168 embankments now protect over 7,500 hectares of farmland, benefiting more than 83,000 people.
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Story
10 March 2026
Rural women reshaping agriculture in Nepal
Knowledge is power for Shubhakala Kumari Sah, a farmer from Rampur Pipra Village in the Siraha District of Nepal’s Madhesh Province. She leads the Sitaram Women Farmer’s Group formed under the Joint Programme on Accelerating Progress towards Rural Women’s Economic Empowerment (JP-RWEE) – implemented by UN Women, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and World Food Programme (WFP), and funded by Norway and Sweden in Nepal. Married at 18, Sah’s formal education ended early. But at age 42, she returned to school and passed her Grade 12 exams. Today, she uses that same determination to guide women in her community to embrace new farming skills, financial literacy and collective leadership. “The programme may end,” says Sah, “but our learning will continue because it has changed how we live and who we are.” In Nepal, JP-RWEE has supported over 5,508 rural women like Sah, and 207 rural men in Madhesh Province’s Siraha and Saptari Districts. Through training, technology and collective action, the programme has nurtured women’s leadership, improved food security, increased financial literacy, nutrition and market access, and built community and climate resilience. In a region where 52 per cent of households are women-headed due to men’s out-migration, women carry the twin responsibilities of managing homes and farmlands. Hence, JP-RWEE has turned this challenge into an opportunity, equipping women to lead economically and socially, where UN Women plays an integral part. Bimala Devi Kamait uses a manual weeder to clear her paddy field. Photo: UN Women/Srijana Bhatta From silence to solidarity Bimala Devi Kamait, from Pokharbhinda Village, recalls rarely leaving her home or speaking to men in public. Like many other women, her empowerment began with voice. Today, she leads the Saraswati Women Farmer Group, addressing community issues including gender-based violence: “Earlier, we wouldn’t have dared to speak. Now, we stand together.” In Pokharbhinda, the Custom Hiring Centre established through JP-RWEE support is providing access to modern agricultural machinery such as tractors, tillers, threshers and sprayers, reducing drudgery, saving time and boosting productivity. “We no longer wait months for a tractor. Farming has become easier, especially for older women and those with sons abroad,” says Kamait. The programme has also empowered women to rethink what they grow and how they grow it. Farmers now use crop calendars, organic pesticides and mobile apps to manage their farms. By diversifying crops, improving soil health and integrating nutrition education into their agriculture practices, these women are building resilience. Mamata Chaudhary leads a discussion on the crop calendar. Photo: UN Women/Srijana Bhatta Mamata Chaudhary, from Mirjapur Village, once grew vegetables only for household use. Now she sells her produce in the market. “It’s not just extra income,” she says. “It’s pride.” She also advocates for better maternal nutrition after learning how her first pregnancy was affected by a poor diet: “Now I know that caring for ourselves is caring for our families.” From dependency to leadership Shiva Kala Chaudhary uses a mobile application to plan and manage her agricultural activities. Photo: UN Women/Srijana Bhatta JP-RWEE’s financial literacy training has also empowered many women to open small businesses, start dairy or fish farming and join savings groups. Sarita Kumari Mehata, from Saptari, used her financial knowledge to document her family’s land. “I managed to transfer our land deeds myself,” she says proudly. Sarita Kumari Mehata helps her children with their studies at home. Photo: UN Women/Srijana Bhatta Across villages, women who strengthened their leadership capacities through JP-RWEE are attending ward meetings, school management committees and cooperatives, reshaping decision-making spaces once closed to them. Women are leading sustainable practices, planting climate-resilient crops, restoring soils and preserving biodiversity. And their leadership is changing community perceptions. “We’re no longer just someone’s wife or daughter-in-law,” says Kamait. “Now people call us by our names, invite us to meetings and listen when we speak.” What makes JP-RWEE unique is its integrated approach of challenging discriminatory norms and promoting women’s leadership by combining income-generation, nutrition, financial literacy, collective action and climate-resilience technology with local governance. And this is having a larger impact, says Laxmipur Patari’s Mayor, Chaturananda Thakur: “Women are now organized, running enterprises and speaking up in public spaces. They’re not only participants in development. They’re leading it.”
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Story
27 December 2024
Turning Skills into Prosperity: Empowering Women Entrepreneurs in Belauri
"It makes us happy to see the fruits of training being implemented," says Naresh Prasad Bhatta, Employment Coordinator and SIYB (Start and Improve Your Business) Facilitator for Belauri Municipality, Sudurpachim.Naresh and Dipa Raut, an Entrepreneur Development coordinator, attended a 10-day SIYB Training of Trainers (ToT) in Dhangadhi. The training, conducted under the Empowered Women, Prosperous Nepal (EWPN) program led by the ILO in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Development, aimed to equip participants with essential entrepreneurial skills to empower local women entrepreneurs. Following their training, the ILO and Belauri Municipality organized an SIYB session in Belauri-5, Attariya, where 22 women from the community participated. Many of these women were involved in vegetable farming and traditional tapari (leaf plate) production but lacked the knowledge to transform their work into sustainable, profit-oriented businesses. One of the participants, Phulkumari Rana, had been a vegetable farmer for years but never saw it as a potential business. "Through the training, I learned the importance of setting profit margins, practicing seasonal farming, and understanding market demands," she shared. "I was earning just enough to get by, but now I know how to calculate profits, save, and expand my business."The impact of the training was immediate and transformative. Women in the community who were engaged in tapari production received tapari-making machines from the municipality. With renewed confidence and skills, they are now planning to market their products across Dhangadhi, aiming to generate greater income and improve their livelihoods. Under the EWPN program—a collaborative effort between the Government of Nepal, the European Union, and the United Nations—the ILO capacitated province and municipal government trainers who now mobilize their funds to deliver business development support to budding and existing entrepreneurs from local communities, as well as referees from EWPN partner agencies. The Naresh Bhatta and Dipa Raut trainer were used by UN Women to train vegetable farmers on SIYB with backstopping from an ILO master trainer. With their newfound entrepreneurial skills, they are not only changing their own lives but setting an inspiring example for future generations of women entrepreneurs in Sudurpaschim.
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Story
25 December 2024
Empowering Women Survivors of Gender-Based Violence: Stories of Strength and Hope
Dikshya (pseudonym) endured years of physical and emotional violence after giving birth to a daughter. "Having an alcoholic husband ruined my life," she recalled. The abuse she faced during her first pregnancy tragically led to the death of her unborn child. Despite repeated counseling sessions, her husband never changed, and Dikshya began losing hope for a better future for herself and her child. Her thoughts changed when she visited a health center for her daughter’s vaccination. There, she learned about the One-Stop Crisis Management Center (OCMC) and Safe House services, as well as the various forms of gender-based violence (GBV). Realizing that the abuse she had normalized was indeed violence, Dikshya decided to seek help at the OCMC. The counseling she received empowered her to rebuild her life. She was also enrolled in a sewing skills training program to support her journey toward economic independence. Similarly, Situ (pseudonym) was married at the age of 13 after being raised by her grandparents, who hoped marriage would secure her future. Instead, her life took a tragic turn as her husband subjected her to severe abuse, once nearly beating her to death. Desperate to escape, she sought help at the OCMC, where she was referred to a Safe House. At the Safe House, Situ joined other GBV survivors in learning sewing skills. "I no longer feel alone. I have a team here, and if I learn well, I can earn for myself," she shared with hope in her voice. Through OCMC's support, she also received critical medical treatment for uterine issues at Dadeldhura Hospital. Both Dikshya and Situ now dream of opening tailoring businesses to become financially self-reliant. Janaki Singh, Case Manager and Counselor at OCMC, emphasized the importance of raising awareness about GBV. "Many women believe being beaten by their husbands is normal. We need to educate them that every woman has the right to feel safe," she said. The OCMC and Safe Houses, supported by UNFPA under the Empowered Women, Prosperous Nepal (EWPN) program, provide crucial support for GBV survivors. Women in these shelters not only receive counseling but are also referred for skill development training, such as tailoring and beauty services. UNFPA collaborates with UN Women and ILO to link survivors to economic opportunities and market opportunities. This multi-agency effort, under the EWPN program—a joint initiative of the Government of Nepal, the European Union, and the United Nations—aims to empower women like Dikshya and Situ, helping them regain dignity, independence, and a brighter future.
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Press Release
05 January 2026
UN in Nepal Advances Efforts to Survivor-Centered Protection from Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment Across Government Ministries
As part of this effort, UN Nepal, through the UN PSEA Working Group, convened a high-level PSEAH workshop for Joint Secretary from across the Government of Nepal, in collaboration with the Ministry of Women, Children and Senior Citizens and with funding support from the International Organization for Migration (IOM). The workshop brought together more than three dozen senior government officials and UN agencies to strengthen collective understanding of PSEAH and to translate policies into practical, operational actions. Opening the workshop, Ms. Hanaa Singer Hamdy, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Nepal said, “The urgency of this work is clear. Sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment disproportionately affect women and girls, undermine trust in institutions, weaken service delivery, and ultimately erode social and economic resilience. Addressing these risks is central to Nepal’s national priorities—accelerating the SDGs, strengthening accountability and transparency, and ensuring social protection systems genuinely safeguard the most vulnerable.” She added. Hon’ble Justice Ms. Sapana Pradhan Malla encouraged ministries to identify clear entry points for integrating PSEAH into operational frameworks. She further urged participants to develop practical recommendations with clearly defined roles, timelines, and accountability mechanisms. Women’s rights activist and UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) Committee Member, Ms. Bandana Rana underscored the importance of aligning UN mechanisms with state responsibilities and national priorities, while strengthening transparency and accountability across public institutions. Participants identified practical entry points to integrate PSEA and the Sexual Harassment at Workplace (Prevention) Act into sectoral planning, institutional procedures and local-level service delivery, with a focus on prevention, clear reporting pathways and survivor-centered responses. A panel discussion led by Dr. Krishna Hari Pushkar, Secretary at the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security, and Mr. Parashwor Dhungana, Secretary at the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, highlighted existing strengths within government policies and institutional frameworks, including critical gaps in addressing SEAH risks faced by migrant workers across different stages of migration. Building on Nepal’s national legislation particularly the Sexual Harassment at Workplace (Prevention) Act 2071, the workshop focused on strengthening PSEAH systems in practice by embedding safeguards into staffing arrangements, institutionalizing training, and expanding community-based complaints, safe and accessible reporting, and victim-centered response mechanisms. # Notes to the editor: PSEAH is a core global priority of the United Nations system, guided by the UN Secretary-General and the Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC) Six Core Principles. These frameworks underscore zero tolerance for sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment, survivor-centered responses, accountability, and robust prevention mechanisms in both workplace and service delivery contexts. These commitments are further reinforced through the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF), which calls for the mainstreaming of PSEA measures across all UN-supported programming. For more information, please contact:Tej Maya Dangol, UN PSEA Coordinator; UNRCO Nepal, tej.dangol@un.orgPratibha Rijal, Project Officer (PSEA) IOM Nepal, prijal@iom.intDipti Shah, Communications Focal Point; IOM Nepal, dshah@iom.int
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Press Release
17 December 2025
Seventy Years of Partnership, Eighty Years of Multilateralism: Nepal and the United Nations Celebrate a Shared Legacy of Impact, Peace, and People
This milestone traces back to 14 December 1955, when Nepal formally became a Member State of the United Nations — a decision that laid the foundation for seven decades of cooperation in service of the Nepali people and the global community. Held at UN House, the UN Day 2025 celebration was exceptionally high-level and marked by strong national ownership. The Rt. Honourable Prime Minister of Nepal, Madam Sushila Karki, five Cabinet Ministers, the Chiefs of all security agencies, members of the diplomatic corps, development partners, civil society, and the United Nations Country Team came together to reflect on the partnership’s history and on what seven decades of cooperation have delivered for Nepal — and for the world. In her address, the United Nations Resident Coordinator underscored that the UN was founded on a historic choice — cooperation over division, hope over despair, and peace over power — emphasizing that peace is not the dividend of development, but its foundation. Reflecting on 70 years of UN–Nepal partnership, she highlighted progress in poverty reduction, maternal health, education, water and sanitation, forest restoration, renewable energy, and post-2015 earthquake recovery, and thanked the Government of Nepal, partners, and UN colleagues for keeping people at the centre of delivery. The celebration also underscored Nepal’s long-standing contribution to global peace. As one of the world’s leading troop-contributing countries, Nepal has deployed generations of peacekeepers to some of the most fragile contexts, embodying the UN’s founding principle of collective responsibility. Speaking at the ceremony, the Chief of Army Staff General Ashok Raj Sigdel highlighted Nepal’s peacekeeping legacy as a reflection of national values — service, sacrifice, and solidarity. From post-war reconstruction and institution-building to disaster response, health, education, gender equality, climate action, and inclusive development, the UN–Nepal partnership has evolved alongside the country’s needs. What began as technical support has grown into community-driven change, grounded in local leadership and national priorities. In her inaugural address, Rt. Hon Prime Minister Sushila Karki highlighted the partnership between the UN and Nepal and reaffirmed Nepal’s belief in multilateralism, emphasizing that cooperation remains the strongest path to peace, dignity, and shared progress. The programme included the mural, featuring “UN Nepal 70” expressions in 14 languages and scripts, including Braille, reflecting Nepal’s linguistic diversity and marking the country’s first publicly accessible mural for persons with blindness. T he celebration also included a wreath-laying ceremony at the Peacekeepers’ Memorial, where the Prime Minister, Ministers, Chiefs of all security agencies and the UN Resident Coordinator paid tribute to the 87 Nepali peacekeepers who lost their lives in service to peace and humanity.# For more details, please contact: Simrika SharmaNational Information OfficerUN Information Centre, Kathmandu Email: simrika.sharma@un.org
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Press Release
25 November 2025
Digital Violence Is Real Violence: UN Nepal Calls for Action as 16 Days of Activism Begins
Today, the United Nations in Nepal kicked off the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence together with the Hon’ble Minister for Communication and Information Technology Mr Jagdish Kharel, reaffirming Nepal’s commitment to making digital spaces safer for women and girls. This year’s global theme, Unite to End Digital Violence against All Women and Girls, underscores the urgency of protecting young people in rapidly expanding digital spaces. Speaking at the event, the Honorable Minister Kharel emphasized the need of having safe, inclusive and empowering digital ecosystem for every nepali citizen. He noted that, “digital safety is now central to civic participation, access to information and the full exercise of rights in Nepal’s evolving digital landscape.”The event brought together government representatives, UN agencies, development partners, youth networks, civil society, private sector, and media under one clear message: Digital violence is real violence. Online abuse, sexual extortion, non-consensual sharing of images and the spread of misogynistic content inflict real harm on the lives, dignity and autonomy of women and girls. Speaking on behalf of the United Nations in Nepal, Resident Coordinator Hanaa Singer-Hamdy underscored that digital violence is not only an attack on the rights, dignity and autonomy of women and girls but a direct threat to their participation in public life. She warned that online abuse is silencing women journalists, discouraging women leaders, and pushing girls away from digital spaces where their voices are urgently needed. Protecting women and girls online therefore demands a whole-of-society effort to challenge harmful norms, strengthen accountability, and invest in systems that safeguard digital rights. She further highlighted the urgency of digital literacy and online safety education for adolescents—especially boys—to build resilience, transform attitudes, and promote respectful online behaviour.”The event featured a youth-designed mural symbolizing collective commitment to reclaiming safe digital spaces, along with a fireside chat with influencers and digital rights experts on the rise of online abuse and the urgent need for stronger protections.Young participants shared their experiences of online harassment and the importance of being believed, supported and empowered to live a safe digital life. They asked better support systems for survivors, addressing impact of harmful content and building platforms that are safe for women and girls.The UNiTE 2025 campaign runs until 10 December, under the theme “UNiTE to End Digital Violence against All Women and Girls” urging everyone to stand together against digital violence and uphold digital rights as fundamental human rights. The campaign calls on parents, educators, policymakers and technology companies to take shared responsibility for creating online environments where all women and girls can learn, participate and thrive without fear. For queries, please contact; Simrika Sharma; Tel: 9841592692 Email: simrika.sharma@un.org Sangharsha Pant; Tel: 9849624191 Email: sangharsha.panta@unwomen.orgAditi Aryal; Tel: 9849541479 Email: aryal@unfpa.org Editor’s Note The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is an international campaign which takes place each year. It commences on 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, to 10 December, Human Rights Day. It was originated by activists at the first Women's Global Leadership Institute in 1991 and is coordinated each year by the Centre for Women's Global Leadership. It is used as an organizing strategy by individuals and organizations around the world to call for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls.As a unifying theme running global activities, the UNiTE campaign has utilized the colour orange to represent a brighter future, free from violence against women and girls. For the past years, the UN Country Team (UNCT) in Nepal has been marking 16 days campaign with awareness building and advocacy campaigns across Nepal. Some of the key activities undertaken were ‘oranging’ monuments and provincial buildings, engaging audience across Nepal through films, social media, and radio campaigns.
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Press Release
09 September 2025
STATEMENT BY THE UNITED NATIONS IN NEPAL
The United Nations in Nepal is deeply pained by the tragic loss of lives, the rising tensions and the escalating violence across the country. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of those who have lost loved ones and wish a full and speedy recovery to the injured.Freedom of expression, access to information and peaceful assembly are fundamental rights protected under Nepali and international law. We call on all protestors to exercise these fundamental freedoms peacefully and refrain from violence. At the same time, we urge the authorities to ensure that all law enforcement responses remain proportionate and in line with international human rights standards. All allegations of excessive use of force should be investigated promptly in an independent, transparent and impartial manner.Dialogue remains the best means of addressing the concerns of citizens, including the country’s young people. The voices of young Nepalis have been heard loud and clear, and Nepal will benefit from taking concrete steps to address the root causes of the issues raised and ensuring a prosperous future for young Nepalis. The United Nations stands ready to support dialogue and trust-building measures that can help de-escalate tensions and contribute to a peaceful resolution for prosperous Nepal.
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Press Release
11 July 2025
Nepal’s Largest All-Female Hackathon 2025: Shequal Foundation and EWPN Unite to Empower Women Through Innovation
The residential hackathon brought together 16 all-women teams of 48 participants selected from across the country to address some of Nepal’s most pressing social and economic challenges through technological solutions. The hackathon, themed “Hacking for Empowered Women,” focused on key issues such as unpaid care work, access to financial services, digital literacy, and gender-responsive health. From July 9-10, participants engaged in intensive collaboration, coding, mentorship, and problem-solving, supported by 20 expert mentors and industry professionals. The event culminated with a final pitch day by six teams who presented their innovative tech solutions to a panel and following three teams were announced as winners: Winner: SewaDit They developed an innovative digital platform that empowers women by tracking unpaid care work through task-based points, verification, and monthly reports making invisible labor visible for recognition, support, and economic inclusion. They were from Butwal, comprising Ms. Roshni Neupane, Ms. Aakritee Parajuli, and Ms. Supriya Shrestha First Runner-Up: Healing Hands They created a solution titled “Care Bridge”, which is a web platform that connects female caregiving students with those in need of unpaid care, matching based on skills and availability, while tracking experience in a verifiable Care Portfolio to provide real-world training, community support, and resume-level recognition.developed by a team from Jhapa, comprising Ms. Aiswarya Pokharel, Ms. Ayushma Pokhrel, and Ms. Hemkala Thapa Second Runner-up: June They developed a solution called HeritEdge which is a personalized, gamified cultural storytelling platform like Netflix for heritage that empowers local artists, engages youth with AR and AI-driven experiences, and enhances immersion through regional language support developed by a team from Kathmandu, comprising Ms. Kritika Acharya, Ms. Astha Ghimire, and Ms. Simran Gurung The teams presented solutions addressing real-world challenges, including care gaps, low female employment, skilling and employment opportunities, digital finance and budgeting tools, gender-responsive healthcare, digital inclusion and accessibility to e-commerce platforms, to cultural preservation using AR, and recognition of unpaid care work. These ideas, developed with empathy and purpose, which aimed to drive long-term change for women in Nepal were judged by esteemed judges, Mukesh Regmi, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Information and Communication Technology, Bhawani Rana, Former President, FNCCI, Aashish Dhakal, Global Equity Fund, Pramila Acharya Rijal, South Asian Women Development Forum, Mona Sherpa, Care Nepal, Tripti Rai, Oxfam, Rajendra Luitel, IFC, Salina Nakarmi, f1soft, Pranisha Shrestha, NMB and Sahana Bajracharya, Media Personality who represented different government institutions, development agencies, and the private sectors. Quotes: Her Excellency Veronique Lorenzo, Ambassador of the European Union to Nepal: “At the European Union, we firmly believe digital innovation plays a vital role in economic growth, particularly in women’s economic empowerment. Yet, this innovation must be accessible and affordable to everyone, especially to the most marginalised communities amongst us. We have supported the hackathon because it provides a platform for women to design and lead digital solutions that reflect their real-life experiences. By investing in women’s participation in the tech sector, from Kathmandu to rural Nepal, we are not only addressing gender disparities but also unlocking powerful engines for economic and social transformation." Patricia Fernandez-Pacheco, Country Representative, UN Women Nepal: “When women design the future, the future becomes more equal, creative, and powerful for all. This Hackathon is not just about technology, it’s about rewriting the rules, closing the gender digital divide, and ensuring every girl and woman has a voice in shaping tomorrow.” Melisha Ghimire & Astha Sharma, Co-Managing Directors, Shequal Foundation: “This hackathon is more than a competition; it’s a movement. A movement to place young women at the center of innovation, leadership, and impact. We’re not just building tech solutions; we’re building belief, visibility, and power.” The hackathon followed a series of impactful pre-events, including IDEATHON 2025, a Human-Centered Design Workshop, and Hack the Narrative, which engaged over 1000 young women in ideation, storytelling, and user-focused innovation. UN Women provided technical leadership to design and execute the Hackathon on the theme ‘Women’s Economic Empowerment, including unpaid care work. This initiative marks a bold step in building inclusive digital ecosystems where women can lead, innovate, and thrive. For media inquiries and further information, please contact: Name: Riya Shrestha Phone: 9801911640 Email: riya.shrestha@shequalfoundation.org —-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- About Organizers: About EWPN Empowered Women, Prosperous Nepal (EWPN) is a four-year joint initiative (2023–2026) by the Government of Nepal, the European Union, and the United Nations to advance gender equality and inclusive economic growth. The programme is implemented by four UN agencies (ILO, UNFPA, UNICEF, and UN Women) across Madhesh, Karnali, and Sudurpaschim Provinces, in close partnership with all levels of government. Shequal Foundation Shequal Foundation is a youth-led, women-driven non-profit organization committed to building an inclusive, equitable, and just society. Shequal Foundation works across all 7 provinces of Nepal, engaging individuals, especially girls and women between the ages of 9 to 40, through its diverse programs and initiatives. With a strong focus on gender equality, economic empowerment, and community transformation, Shequal creates safe spaces and opportunities for girls and women across Nepal to lead, learn, and thrive. From grassroots initiatives to national campaigns, Shequal blends innovation with advocacy to challenge norms, shift narratives, and spark systemic change.
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