NATIONAL CONFERENCE

TOWARDS PLANET 50:50: ENABLING WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP AND REPRESENTATION IN LOCAL GOVERNANCE

20-21 April 2017 Kathmandu, Nepal

CONFERENCE REPORT Organizers: gk] fn ;/sf/

Election Commission Nepal (ECN) :yfgLo txsf] lgjf{rgdf United Nations Gender Theme Group-Nepal dlxnf ;xeflutfsf nflu ;femf cleofg Sajha Abhiyan (Women’s Coalition) UNITED NATION S Election Commission of Nepal is the constitutional Election Management Body in Nepal. The Election Commission has the responsibility to conduct, supervise, direct and control the elections of the President, the Vice President, Members of Federal Parliament, Provincial Assemblies and Local Bodies.

The United Nations Gender Theme Group – Nepal consists of representatives from 18 UN agencies (FAO, IFAD, ILO, IOM, UNAIDS, UNDP, UNESCO, UNFPA, UN Habitat, UNHCR, UNICEF, UNODC, UNRCO, UNRCPD, UN Volunteer, UN Women, WFP and WHO). The Gender Theme Group is currently co-chaired by UNDP and UN Women.

SAJHA ABHIYAN is a campaign for Women's Participation in Local Election with an objective to ensure women's participation in local election. The members include: Women Security Pressure Group (WSPG), Working Group for Women’s Political Empowerment(AWG), Shanti Malika, Sancharika Samuha, Men Engage Alliance (MEA), Sankalpa, Media, Women in Policy Advocacy Alliance (WIPPA), Beyond Beijing Committee (BBC), AATWIN, National Network Against Girl Trafficking (NNAGT), Women Awareness Center Nepal, Nepal Disabled Women Association, Alliance against Trafficking in Women & Children in Nepal (AATWIN).

Disclaimer: The views expressed in the report are those of the individual participants and do not necessarily represent the views of the United Nations.

PHOTO CREDITS: All photos: UN Women/Pradeep Shakya NATIONAL CONFERENCE

TOWARDS PLANET 50:50: ENABLING WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP AND REPRESENTATION IN LOCAL GOVERNANCE

20-21 April 2017 Kathmandu, Nepal

CONFERENCE REPORT Organizers: Election Commission Nepal (ECN) United Nations Gender Theme Group-Nepal Sajha Abhiyan (Women’s Coalition)

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:yfgLo txsf] lgjf{rgdf dlxnf ;xeflutfsf nflu ;femf cleofg UNITED NATION S LIST of ACRONYMS

CA Constituent Assembly CEDAW Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women CIN Community Information Network CoC Code of Conduct CPN (UML) Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist Leninist) DCC District Coordination Committee ECN Election Commission Nepal EWG Election Working Group FNJ Federation of Nepali Journalists GoN Government of Nepal GTG Gender Theme Group INGO International Non-governmental Organization IPWA Inter-Party Women’s Alliance LGBTI Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex MP Member of Parliament NC Nepali Congress NGO Non-governmental Organization NWC National Women Commission RPP Rastriya Prajatantra Party SDGs Sustainable Development Goals UN United Nations US United States UN Women United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women UNDP United Nations Development Programme TABLE of CONTENTS

List of Acronyms 4 Table of Contents 5 1. Background 6 2. Objectives 9 3. National Conference Proceedings 10 3.1 Inaugural Session 11 3.2 Technical Sessions 15 Session 1: Know Your Rights: Demystifying key elements in the Constitution of Nepal and Electoral Laws focusing on women’s leadership and participation 15 Session 2: Exercise Your Rights: Sharing, mentoring, uniting and demanding 17 Session 3: Women in Decision-Making: Lessons from Nepal 19 Session 4: Reflections and Lessons Learnt from Past Elections by the Women’s Movement: What worked and what did not work? 20 Session 5: Claim Your Rights: Breaking social norms and challenging mindsets that hold women back 23 Session 6: The Enablers: What can political parties do to make women viable candidates? 26 Session 7: Enjoy Your Rights: Practical actions to enhance women’s participation and leadership in local elections 27 Session 8: Enjoy Your Rights: Practical actions to enhance women’s participation and leadership in local elections 29 3.3 Closing Session 30 Closing Session: Vote of Thanks 30 4. Key Themes 33 4.1 Demystifying Women’s Right to Leadership and Participation 34 4.2 Normative Framework Related to Gender-Responsive Elections in Nepal 35 4.3 Exercising Women’s Rights: National and International Experiences 36 4.4 Key Lessons Learnt from Past Elections 37 4.5 Women in Leadership: Breaking Social Norms and Challenges 38 4.6 Political Commitments 40 5. Way Forward 42 6. Annexes 45 1 BACKGROUND

Women are significantly under-represented in political and electoral processes everywhere in the world – be it as voters, candidates, elected representatives, or electoral administrators. NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT 7

Women shall have the right to participate in all bodies of the State on the basis of the principle of proportional inclusion. - The Constitution of Nepal, 2015

Women are significantly under- Village Development Committees and “ represented in political and electoral Municipalities. The units for which processes everywhere in the elections will be held include 481 Rural world – be it as voters, candidates, Municipalities, 246 Municipalities, elected representatives, or electoral 13 Sub-Metropolitan Cities and 4 administrators. Women’s political Metropolitan Cities.1 The five election- empowerment and equal access related bills - Election Commission Bill, to leadership positions at all levels Electoral Rolls Bill, Election Offences and are fundamental to achieving the Punishments Bill, Local Level Election Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Bill and Political Party Bill - have been and a more equal world. The Convention approved by the Legislative Parliament, on the Elimination of All Forms of and the Election Commission Nepal Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), (ECN) has issued the Election Code of ratified by Nepal in 1991, calls on state Conduct (CoC), a guideline to ensure parties “to take appropriate measures to that the election is conducted in a free, eliminate discrimination against women fair, impartial, transparent, and credible in political and public life”. Similarly, manner. the Constitution of Nepal (2015) in Article 38-4 stipulates that “women In post-conflict countries like Nepal, shall have the right to participate in all where there are additional barriers to bodies of the State on the basis of the women’s participation, special attention principle of proportional inclusion”. In is required to ensure that their rights sum, women’s political representation are respected. Recently approved and leadership are prerequisites to election-related laws have incorporated ensuring the human rights of all. It has some progressive provisions in terms been almost two decades since the of women’s representation in local last local-level elections were held in bodies, including the Rural Municipality, Nepal. The Constitution of Nepal 2015 Municipality and District Coordination has stipulated that the Government of Committee (DCC). Women in Nepal, Nepal (GoN) hold local, provincial as well however, still struggle to exercise as federal elections by 21 January 2018. their rights to political participation Accordingly, the GoN announced 14 and leadership. This is due to social May 2017 as the date for the election of norms related to women’s participation local bodies and preparations are now that limit women’s voice and agency, underway. The GoN has established 744 women’s limited information about the local-level units, replacing the previous relevant provisions of the constitution

1The Directives to Govern and Operate Local Level Government of Nepal, Ministry of Federal Affairs and Local Development, 2073. 8 NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT

and election-related laws, low levels of or minority community representatives in motivation to be a candidate or a voter, all District Coordination Committees (DCC). resource constraints, and inadequate The Act has further mandated political mentoring and support systems. parties to ensure 50 percent representation of women among candidates for Women’s representation in the first Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson; Mayor Constituent Assembly (CA) of Nepal and Deputy Mayor; and Chief and Vice-Chief (2008) was the highest ever, reaching 33 of the Rural Municipality, Municipality and percent. This declined to 29.91 percent DCC respectively. in the second CA (2013). The percentage of women in the legislature parliament The ECN, UN Country Team Gender Theme following the promulgation of the new Group (GTG), Election Working Group constitution in September 2015 has (EWG), National Women Commission (NWC), remained the same (29.91 percent). Women’s Coalition and women’s groups, Constituent Assembly has two roles to and the media have been advocating for play as Constituent Assembly and as legislative frameworks to ensure women’s Legislature Parliament. Hence, after the fair access to the political sphere - as promulgation of the Constitution their voters, candidates, elected officials, and role is limited to Legislature Parliament. government officials. As part of these The Constitution of Nepal guarantees 33 initiatives, and in order to align these efforts percent of seats to women in the Federal with the provisions of the constitution and and Provincial Legislatures. the new election-related laws, the ECN, the UNGTG chaired by UN Women and UNDP, This election will result in at least and Sajha Abhiyan (Women’s Coalition) 13,360 women being elected from proposed to host a National Conference in 6680 wards. This is because the Election Kathmandu on the theme ‘Towards Planet Commission Act (2017) directs the 50:50: Enabling Women’s Leadership and Election Commission Nepal (ECN) to Representation in Local Governance’ on adopt gender-friendly and inclusive 20-21 April 2017. The overall aim of the principles while conducting local National Conference was to empower elections in a free and fair manner. women to be effective leaders and The ECN has developed the Gender constituents in local governance. Within the Equality and Social Inclusion Policy framework of the conference, participants and the strategies and action plan united to draft a common charter of for making election gender friendly. demands for gender-responsive local Ffurthermore, the Local Level Election governance and advocated with political Act (2017) provisions state that in any parties on the charter. five-membered Ward Committee, two women (40 percent), including one Dalit woman (20 percent) shall be elected. Similarly, there is a provision to elect at least four and five women as members of each Rural Municipality and Municipality Executive Committee respectively. Towards Planet 50:50: Enabling Additionally, the Act guarantees at least 33 percent representation of women Women’s Leadership and Representation and 11 percent representation of Dalit in Local Governance NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT 9 2 OBJECTIVES

n To take forward gender equality-focused voter education; n To increase understanding of the provisions of the Constitution of Nepal and the Local Level Election Act 2017 on women’s leadership and representation; n To identify critical action points to ensure that the local elections are gender-responsive; and n To collectively advocate and vote for the common charter of demands for gender-responsive local governance. 10 NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT 3 NATIONAL CONFERENCE PROCEEDINGS

The inaugural session, held the morning of 20 April 2017, began after registration of the over 500 participants, followed by the playing of the national anthem initiated by a women’s group. - The Constitution of Nepal, 2015 NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT 11

Low education, limited political engagement, limited health care access, and domestic violence, have contributed to the low representation of women in politics. - Mr. Gopi Nath Mainali, Secretary, Election Commission Nepal (ECN) “ 3.1 INAUGURAL SESSION The inaugural session, held the morning ceremony was Ms. Babita Basnet. Mr. of 20 April 2017, began after registration Gopi Nath Mainali, Secretary, Election of the over 500 participants, followed Commission Nepal, provided welcoming by the playing of the national anthem remarks and outlined the objectives initiated by a women’s group. The of the conference. The conference was session was chaired by the Chief Election formally inaugurated by Ms. Onsari Commissioner, Dr. Ayodhee Prasad Gharti Magar, the Right Honourable Yadav, while distinguished chief guest Speaker of the Parliament, by the and guests seated in the dais included traditional ‘lighting of the lamp’. This was Speaker of the Parliament, Election followed by remarks on the objectives Commissioners and the UN Resident and program of the national conference Coordinator to Nepal. The master of by distinguished speakers. 12 NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT

Mr. Gopi Nath Mainali, Secretary, Ms. Durga Ghimire, Sajha Abhiyan, Election Commission Nepal (ECN), shared informed participants that the his experiences from the ECN, which has movement is working with different been working at the local level in order political parties and media groups to to encourage women’s representation increase the participation of women in and make the local election process local governance structures. According more inclusive. During his speech, he to her, women’s representation can bring mentioned that various factors, such important changes to Nepal’s political as low education, limited political assembly. Ms. Ghimire highlighted that engagement, limited health care access, whenever there has been a presence of and domestic violence, have contributed women in the political arena, particularly to the low representation of women in the South Asian context, we have in politics, although they make up 51 noticed increased good governance, less percent of Nepal’s total population. Mr. corruption, less violence and women Mainali stressed that the government strengthening their identities outside of should not only focus on making policies the household realm. She urged all local more gender-responsive but also ensure representatives to bring this message that policies are fully applied in practice to their respective communities and and that women are fully represented encourage women in their communities in all positions. He also discussed to take part in the local election. how the representation of women in property ownership and government bodies is low even though the political participation of women is shown to Whenever there has been a increase economic empowerment and presence of women in the reduce domestic violence. He stated that ensuring the proportional representation political arena, particularly of women is not sufficient; policy-level in the South Asian context, we have noticed interventions as well as guaranteed increased good governance, less corruption, representation in the local bodies are less violence and women strengthening their also required. He emphasized that the “ ECN ensures the inclusive representation identities outside of the household realm. of all marginalized groups in its activities. - Ms. Durga Ghimire, Sajha Abhiyan, NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT 13

higher proportion of the population than men in Nepal but that women represent only 29.91 percent of parliamentarians. This could be because women are more likely to be illiterate and more likely to face violence than men. She also stated that women’s caretaking responsibility, coupled with the increasing responsibility to economically provide for their family due to male migration, hinders them from getting fully involved in the political arena. She stressed that gender-insensitive policies, such as girls having to seek support from their fathers and married women with their husbands Ms. Pratibha Rana, Inter-Party Women’s in order to secure citizenship, can also Alliance (IPWA), stated that the Alliance create challenges for women. She called is active in all 75 districts of Nepal this a “conspiracy of men to keep women and that it is urging strong women’s at home”. Ms. Julliand further noted that representation in local bodies. She also this is the perfect moment for women stated that the local elections will be to enter politics and that there will be the point of departure for increasing the no sustainable development without representation of women as enshrined women’s empowerment. in the constitution and highlighted that this is a good opportunity for women and youth to participate both as candidates and voters as the Constitution of Nepal (2015) has made the election and voting more gender- and youth-inclusive. However, Ms. Rana stressed that to make the local election more practical at a local level, the foundation needs to be strong. To realize this goal, members of her alliance are continuously working with all political parties to ensure women’s inclusion and participation at the local level.

Ms. Valerie Julliand, UN Resident Women Coordinator to Nepal, urged the cannot be an participants to mentor women so that afterthought. they can become full-fledged citizens as “we need champions of women in They will move the nation. politics”. She expressed that women Whether we want it or not. leaders present at the conference were Today or tomorrow, they “not only leaders but also children “will do it. of women in politics”. Ms. Julliand mentioned that women constitute a - Ms. Valerie Julliand, UN Resident Coordinator, Nepal 14 NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT

Ms. Onsari Gharti, Chief Guest and Right Honorable Speaker, mentioned women’s low representation in decision-making bodies throughout the world and stated that women’s representation in Nepal was not as high as expected, especially their meaningful presence in decision-making bodies. She also highlighted the gap between capacity and opportunity for women’s participation We should not only demand as enshrined in the constitution, and other fundamental human women’s candidacy but also rights treaties. She further noted the tendency of political parties ensure their victories as well. to limit women’s candidacy to reserved quota seats and how local “ elections represent an opportunity to challenge this tendency. She - Ms. Onsari Gharti, highlighted that it is crucial to push for more “leadership of women” Right Honorable Speaker, in the pursuit of national development. Legislature Parliament

Mr. Ayodhee Prasad Yadav, Chief Election Commissioner, highlighted that among the 744 local bodies there are more than 6880 wards and that a movement is needed to ensure implementation of women’s guaranteed representation in these. He cautioned that we cannot survive as a free society unless we exercise complete democratic rights. He reported that the ECN has finished all the preparations to hold the local elections in a free and fair manner through voter education and making provisions for women-friendly polling stations. He also highlighted on issue Democracy without of violence, how women were passionate to fight the upcoming local election. Dr. Ayodhee Prasad Yadav also requested all political women’s empowerment is parties to exert for women’s candidacy in all posts as far as possible. “no democracy. Dr. Yadav also requested all political parties to exert for women’s - Mr. Ayodhee Prasad Yadav, candidacy in all posts as far as possible. Chief Election Commissioner NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT 15

3.2 TECHNICAL SESSIONS Day 1 SESSION 1: Know Your Rights: Demystifying key elements in the Constitution of Nepal Thursday, 20 April 2017 and Electoral Laws focusing on women’s leadership and participation

Panelists: n Ms. Ila Sharma, Commissioner, ECN n Mr. Nawaraj Dhakal, Joint Secretary, ECN n Mr. Nilkantha Uprety, former Chief Election Commissioner

Facilitator: n Bijay Paudyal

The following panel presentations were made during the session:

Gender-responsive provisions related to women’s leadership in the Constitution of Nepal, the Local Level Election Act (2017), the Election Commission Act (2017)

Ila Sharma, Commissioner, ECN, as well as social and cultural resources highlighted relevant legal provisions is also limited. The constitutional designed to enable women’s provisions and election acts of Nepal, representation in local and national together with international conventions politics. The constitution contains and the support of UN agencies, provide special provisions to ensure 33 to 50 the foundation to enable women’s percent representation of women, representation in all fields, organizations, Dalit and marginalized groups in the and levels (local to federal), including in local election. However, women’s decision making positions through the representation in political and use of quotas. Such a foundation will government positions is currently low. gradually allow for the transformation of Women’s access to education, health, existing social norms and restrictions. 16 NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT

Presentation on the electoral management system (voting system, polling centres, human resource management, special provision for women voters)

Nawaraj Dhakal, Joint Secretary, ECN, lists and voter identity cards; enforcement provided an overview of the electoral of the code of conduct; organization of management system in place for the conferences; and organization of various forthcoming local elections. Preparations logistics. Political parties, Sajha Abhiyan for the elections made by the Election members, women’s organizations, the Commission Nepal in collaboration Inter-Party Women’s Alliance, NGOs, and with the Government of Nepal include INGOs are integrating and networking appointment of election and polling with each other as well as with UN officers; establishment of district and agencies and the ECN to encourage local election offices; conducting of women’s representation and leadership local-level trainings, awareness-raising in local and federal elections through initiatives, and media education; display various educational, promotional, and of posters as well as preparation of voters’ monitoring activities and programs.

Electoral violence and women’s safety and security

Nilkantha Uprety, former Chief Election of citizens and prevent any kind of undue Commissioner, discussed the issues and influence and/or electoral violence by adverse effects of election violence on political parties or the government. Violence women as candidates and voters. The aimed at women, Dalits and marginalized elections should be unbiased, secure, people includes domestic violence, physical and free in order to safeguard the rights and psychological violence, electoral NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT 17

violence, undesirable incidences, and under-represented. Other minority corrupt practices such as intimidation groups such LGBTI individuals, disabled and threats. The ECN has demanded the women, and ethnic groups with very application of tight security measures, small populations were also mentioned. enforced by three circles of police, armed Another issue that received attention police, and the army. There are also was the high cost of contesting elections arrangements in place for special cells and how women are intimidated by male from the government and watchdogs as politicians as a result of the high costs. well as national and international human Participants also cited examples where rights observers, to check and respond women were denied nomination despite to possible threats and violence. Women years of struggle and contributions representatives need to play a proactive towards their parties and who called role in breaking the patriarchal mindset themselves “party-oppressed”. There that often gives birth to gender-based were some questions on the issue of violence. women candidates only being offered deputy posts. The panelists noted that During the discussion that followed, these questions were focused on the most of the questions focused on the issue of representation and stated existence of quotas for Dalit women that the ECN is an election-managing while there are no quotas for youth body and thus bound by the existing or Madhesi women who are equally legislation.

SESSION 2: Exercise Your Rights: Sharing, mentoring, uniting and demanding

Panelists: n Her Excellency Ms. Alaina B. Teplitz, United States (US) Ambassador to Nepal n Her Excellency Ms. Mashfee Binte Shams, Ambassador of Bangladesh to Nepal n Her Excellency Ms. W. Swarnalatha Pereira, Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Nepal n His Excellency Mr. Kjell Tormod Pettersen, Norwegian Ambassador to Nepal

Facilitator: n Santosh Shah

The panelists were asked to speak on: Sharing of experiences by Ambassadors based in Nepal—best practices from other countries.

Her Excellency Alaina B. Teplitz, US not unique to Nepal and shared the Ambassador to Nepal, highlighted story of Women’s History Month that that the challenges of inequality were is celebrated in the US every March, 18 NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT

Her Excellency Mashfee Binte Shams, Ambassador of Bangladesh to Nepal, highlighted the significant political empowerment of women in Bangladesh through various legal provisions such as the 33 percent reservation for women in all committees of political parties. In addition, equal rights are guaranteed by the constitution as well as gender-equality and anti-discrimination policies. She also noted that Bangladesh is practicing gender- responsive budgeting.

Her Excellency W. Swarnalatha Pereira, which recognizes the lengthy struggle Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Nepal, noted for women’s rights such as suffrage. She that women’s participation in politics in Sri noted the importance of family, other Lanka started in 1938 but their numbers women, and communities in women’s are still low even though they have struggles. Ambassador Teplitz cited achieved high positions in government. studies which show that women exert a She pointed out the major reasons for their different kind of leadership: they reach low representation, such as an expensive out more to the other side, are more election process, lack of support from social compassionate, look for ways to unite, and privately-owned media for female and are more productive. She noted candidates, reluctance of political parties that women’s leadership has yielded to nominate women candidates, and important results in the economic sphere women’s hesitation to take on major roles. as well. She stressed the need to build Ambassador Pereira also highlighted that the confidence of women to participate women in Sri Lanka are the highest source of in politics by developing their political foreign-currency earnings through foreign skills and affirmed that the US will work labour migration and involvement in the alongside women candidates and voters textile sector. In the face of women’s under- to this end. representation as voters and politicians, despite proven leadership capacities and His Excellency Kjell Tormod Pettersen, basic rights, she recommended the need for Norwegian Ambassador to Nepal, stressed well-educated females in high positions even that it is a critical and decisive moment though they might lack the support of civil in Nepal and that women’s participation society. is important for economic development. He shared the Norwegian experience One major question that was raised during in ensuring women’s representation the discussion concerned the rights of in politics and other Nordic models of migrant workers to vote in national elections democracy, which has also translated into as three of the four countries represented, the highest participation of women in the excluding Norway, have large migrant workforce leading to a large economic populations, including many women. The base. Ambassador Pettersen noted the panelists noted that such provisions are achievements of the Government of Nepal yet to be enacted though migrant workers regarding its many women in prominent form a large and economically significant leadership positions. population in all three countries. NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT 19

SESSION 3: Women in decision-making— lessons from Nepal

Panelists:

n Ms. Bandana Rana, CEDAW Committee Member

n Ms. Sulochana Shrestha Shah, UN Global Compact

Facilitator: n Babita Basnet

The panelists shared the following experiences:

Bandana Rana highlighted the one’s self. She also noted that there is no challenges she experienced while hierarchy in the election process (despite attempting to become a member of the the quotas). However, she also expressed UN CEDAW Committee. Though not the the need to share one’s experiences only criterion, she felt that the support and create opportunities for others. She of family is very important for women’s noted that women’s representation and success, especially for married women rights have been ensured in the new with family. She highlighted the need constitution and the SDGs, particularly for women candidates to have a feel for regarding women’s reproductive and everything and the challenges of women property rights. keeping themselves informed of political developments. Ms. Rana underscored Sulochana Shrestha Shah talked the need to be constantly in contest about the long struggles she faced mode, to win over people, and to rely on in transitioning from being a female 20 NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT

scientist to a successful entrepreneur During the discussion, many women who has fought for labour welfare and who claimed to be deputy mayoral child labour-free industries. She described candidates noted the discouragement the frustrations she experienced as an they experience when confronting the enthusiastic female mathematician in the high expense of contesting elections. government’s leading science lab and how On top of this, many prospective that led her to found her business in carpet women candidates cautioned that weaving. Ms. Shah discussed her experience women will be competing among in carpet manufacturing and empowering themselves as well. There was still women weavers through education and confusion regarding whether women support, helping to rid the industry of child were only eligible for the posts of labour, and the eventual establishment of deputies and some expressed regrets the Nepal Rugmark Foundation on quality that this conference did not happen assurance. She argued that women are earlier. However, during the discussion still far behind men and stressed that they it was also made clear that they can need financial support during elections fight for the Mayor/Chair positions too. and security during voting as well. She In the discussion, the participants also questioned whether there should be strongly raised how the private sector educational qualifications in order to stand could help them to fight for the local as a candidate. election in terms of financial support.

SESSION 4: Reflections and lessons learnt from past elections by the women’s movement—what worked and what did not work?

Panelists:

n Ms. Benu Maya Gurung, Sajha Abhiyan

n Ms. Kala Swarnakar, Sajha Abhiyan

n Ms. Shashi Shrestha, Inter-Party Women’s Alliance

Facilitator: n Tika Dahal

The panelists made the following presentations:

Benu Maya Gurung, Sajha Abhiyan, “muscles”. However, she highlighted noted that contesting elections is not that the state has made provisions for only about finances but also about women to enjoy equal freedom and NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT 21

implemented constitutional provisions ethnic group instead of directly requiring of proportional representation and a that a female occupy either of the quota ensuring minimum 33 percent posts. In addition, she noted that there representation of women. Also, in is no mechanism to ensure 33 percent the draft bills on political parties and representation of women at all levels local elections, there is a provision within political parties. requiring between 33 and 40 percent women’s representation as well as a Finally, Ms. Gurung mentioned that provision ensuring equal opportunity though the election process is also for leadership. Ms. Gurung further about skills, no state or other entity noted that political parties have currently provides training and/or made commitments and developed support to women on the election organizational policies to prevent process, on building a campaign, and/ violence against women; to ensure 33 or on competitive contestation. She percent representation of women in recommended that, among other their parties and sister organizations; actors, the state should make provisions and to provide women-targeted to guarantee equal representation empowerment trainings. However, of women in federal, state, and local she also listed the remaining obstacles executives and assemblies. In addition, to the equal participation of women. the ECN and its local offices should For example, although 33 percent of monitor whether women represent 33 seats are guaranteed for women in percent of members of political parties, all assemblies at different levels of including 33 percent of their working government, there is no such reservation committees. Ms. Gurung also suggested in place at the executive level. Further, that the political parties should for the positions of president and vice- recognize the past contributions of president, she argued that there is an women in their parties and recruit more “attempt to confuse” as the language of women members through trainings the provision refers to either gender or and capacity development. Finally, 22 NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT

Shashi Shrestha, IPWA, stated that the constitution is the framework for state- making and that elections are a step to make the constitution successful. She discussed the issues of inclusion, including in the election system as well as in the manifestos and constitutions of political parties. She identified various obstacles to women’s participation in previous elections, including: lack of a women- friendly election system and obligatory provision for women’s representation, patriarchal/feudal mentality where only males can lead, unfair household obligations, and unfriendly media. Ms. Shrestha suggested the adoption of an she proposed gender-friendly election obligatory provision regarding women’s observation practices and additional voter representation in political parties, the education to prevent invalid votes, and provision of election-related trainings to coordination among observer NGOs to prospective candidates, and prevention cover larger geographical areas. of cross-voting where political parties nominate candidates in coordination in Kala Swarnakar, Sajha Abhiyan, asserted order to minimize women’s participation. that the provision requiring that women She suggested a strategy whereby hold 50 percent of the seats reserved candidates are informed of one’s for indigenous and ethnic groups in constituency and other contenders in the Constituent Assembly elections advance. She emphasized that “we do had greatly encouraged women’s not have to demand, we can take it” and participation. She reiterated that 40 asked the participants to claim their right percent women’s representation is to stand for mayor, and not just as deputy guaranteed in the local elections, which mayor. includes one Dalit woman (20 percent) and another woman (20 percent) in each During the discussion, there were ward. Ms. Swarnakar pointed out that suggestions that campaigns like the political parties are reluctant to nominate Sajha Abhiyan should not be limited to women candidates or nominate them for Kathmandu Valley, but be taken to the constituencies where they are likely to rural parts as well. Many participants lose, and that many women not only lack expressed disappointment that women financial support but also the support become active only during the election of the family as well. She also noted that period and that some women candidates women themselves do not feel secure are acting on behalf of their husbands. and capable and are therefore not willing A concern was raised regarding the lack to contest elections. She suggested of space for disabled women which increasing the number of women discourages their participation. candidates and voters through voter registration, education, preparations for In the last session of the day, candidates, and collective alliances such Chandra Siwakoti, Under Secretary, ECN, as the IPWA. explained the process of filing nominations NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT 23

and features of the new ballot papers. He He also mentioned that only 50 percent explained that a Nepali citizen fulfilling of the required deposit has to be the criteria can file candidacy for the submitted by women candidates and elections through political parties or as by Dalit, minority, or economically weak an independent candidate. Mr. Siwakoti candidates. He went on to explain the informed participants that the political design of the new ballot papers that parties have to nominate 50 percent come in large sizes in line with legal women for the posts of chairperson and provisions. A short animated film on vice-chairperson, mayor and deputy the correct method to mark the ballot mayor, and chief and deputy chief of paper was shown, which also included DCCs, in addition to at least one Dalit examples of when the votes become woman in the case of ward committees. invalid.

Day 2 SESSION 5: Claim Your Rights: Breaking

Friday, social norms and challenging mindsets 21 April 2017 that hold women back

Panelists: n Mr. Kapil Kafle, Coordinator, Secretariat of South Asia MenEngage Alliance n Ms. Saloni Singh, Sajha Abhiyan n Dr. Mahendra Bista, President, Federation of Nepalese Journalists n Ms. Kanchan Magar, Youth leader

Facilitator: n Chewan Rai

The following presentations were made during this session:

Men’s role in promoting women’s leadership

Kapil Kafle, Coordinator, Secretariat will only be nominated for secondary of South Asia MenEngage Alliance, positions in the forthcoming elections, explained the changing attitude of men and that this is mainly because women in response to the evolution of society, are considered ‘vote banks’. Mr. Kafle such as the end to the Sati tradition suggested internalization of equal rights in Nepal, and the effects of global by both women and men and noted that initiatives, such as the White Ribbon opportunities for women are in fact also Campaign. However, he highlighted how for the benefit of men. He suggested social norms still treat men and women that the GESI concept is a basic element differently and continue to ascribe fixed of a democratic culture. He urged gender roles. He argued that women everyone present to start campaigns to 24 NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT

gather votes for women through their leadership will be peace and less social media accounts. He recommended corruption while also encouraging the allocation of additional budgets and pressuring the political parties to to village executives run by women as bring in more women in leadership an incentive, as the outcomes of their positions.

The role of the women’s movement

Saloni Singh, Sajha Abhiyan, noted that to fight for recognition and that even there are “agitated women” in the room the 40 percent reserved seats were not even as there are comments that the secure. Thus, there is a need to move women’s movement in Nepal has not ahead strategically. To those present matured though it is 70 years old. She at the conference who intended to file cited historical women figures who had nominations, she emphasized the need asserted themselves and recent women to empower and strengthen one’s self political figures who had contributed as and to be ready for competition so that much as men. She stated that there had the best capable candidate may win. been a transformation in women’s status She expressed disappointment that the in Nepal in the 20 years since the Fourth media is reporting that women are only World Conference on Women, held in standing for deputy/secondary positions. Beijing in 1995, but that it was still not In the end, she stated that rights should satisfactory. Ms. Singh also pointed be claimed and ensured for posterity out that during elections, women have while also benefiting men as well. NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT 25

The role of media

Mahendra Bista, President, FNJ, stated to engage with the media and that the that the Women’s Charter was very media will highlight both the positives relevant, that media understands the and negatives of candidates. He also Nepali context and society, and that pointed need to enhance leadership Nepal’s pluralism is also its strength. skills, communication skills of women He stressed that the media sees the leaders and also on how to raise the elections as the biggest achievement of most relevant issue of the communities. the agenda of change and will support He said that women do not want to and highlight the electoral process. engage at all or are weak content- Mr. Bista also reiterated the danger of wise when there is a specific need to women being nominated for deputy emphasize their message at home. He positions only during the local elections. also committed that the media will give He stressed the need for the candidates priority to voter-centered messages.

Voices of youth advocates

Kanchan Magar, youth leader, started the role of youth leaders is to encourage her presentation with a poem about youth voting and to help elect a capable her aspirations for equality. She stated leadership, and further claimed that youth that youth, comprising 16- to 40-year have a role to play in both development old, make up about 40 percent of the and elections. She also stated that women population, of whom 82 percent are lag behind in society due to sociocultural educated. She also stressed that they factors like patriarchy and as a result of want to take on leadership roles, but that their own lack of confidence.A participant society sees them as immature. Further, observed that her voice is not blocked Ms. Magar noted that youth commonly by the veil that society makes her wear. lack access to state resources, and Some participants expressed fear that stressed that the current generation of although many women are candidates for youth in Nepal has had no experience of deputy positions, in reality women may and/or exposure to local-level elections not win any seats due to inter-party and and its processes. She highlighted that intra-women competition. 26 NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT

SESSION 6: Enablers: What can political parties do to make women viable candidates?

Panelists:

n Ms. Kiran Koirala, Nepali Congress

n Honorable MP Dr. Rajan Bhattarai, CPN (UML)

n Honorable MP Ms. Kunti Shahi, RPP

n Mr. Sarbendra Nath Shukla, Tarai Madhes Democratic Party

Facilitator: n Bijay Paudyal

The session started with the submission as many local bodies as possible but also of the Women’s Charter of Demands: For expressed disappointment at the trend Achieving Meaningful Equality in the of nominating women who are close to Forthcoming Elections (Local Elections, party leaders, frustrating the dedicated 2017) to the representatives of the party cadres. political parties present on the panel. The session was conducted in a Q&A Following the initial presentations, the format. First, the moderator asked the moderator took questions from the floor present leaders what their parties are and the panelists were asked to respond. doing to ensure women’s representation Most of the questions focused on why in the local elections. there are rumors of women being nominated for posts of deputy mayor Kiran Koirala, NC, stated that the NC and vice-chairperson only, that their will ensure women’s leadership in local representation should not exceed the bodies and different strategies are being reserved 40 percent, and why women prepared to achieve this; she noted that were being discouraged from standing women are filing nominations for the as candidates on the grounds of the high positions of mayors and chairperson. expense of contesting elections. There Honorable MP Rajan Bhattarai, CPN were also questions raised as to why (UML), also stated that women should quotas were not reserved for disabled file nominations for the position of chief women, minorities such as LGBTI, and beyond the legally mandated 50 percent ethnic groups with small populations. quota; his party was asking for three Some participants were concerned that if nominees for each post with one woman there are no Dalit women in a ward, their among them. Sarbendra Nath Shukla, quotas would go vacant. The panelists Tarai Madhes, stressed that women’s stated that the Dalits were provided nominations should be prioritized in high quotas to ensure participation in constituencies where they are likely to governance because they have been win. Honorable Kunti Shah, RPP, also historically marginalized. The leaders stated that RPP is for female mayors in agreed that while there are problems NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT 27

of representation and participation of committees. The panelists also agreed women in politics, men will continue that first and foremost there is a need to to dominate unless the number of implement the constitutional and legal women party members is increased. As it provisions of women’s representation currently stands, women candidates will and participation in politics and have to be approved by male-dominated governance.

SESSION 7: Enjoy Your Rights: Practical actions to enhance women’s participation and leadership in local elections

Group work on practical actions—‘We commit’

Facilitator: n Govinda Khadka, News Chief, CIN n Laxmi Basnet, News Desk Chief, CIN

Before and during the lunch break, commitments. Participants representing ‘I commit’ cards were collected from various sectors were asked to make participants where they committed in commitments on behalf of their words to ensure women’s representation respective sectors. in the forthcoming local elections. These cards were categorized on the The collected ‘I commit’ cards were basis of the participants making the categorized into six groups: 1) civil commitments and the themes of their society, with commitments to giving 28 NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT

their votes to women candidates leadership in local bodies; 2) ensuring and providing training to women, seats for Dalit women and minorities; indigenous groups, and sexual 3) working towards preventing minorities to help them access top election violence; 4) giving space in posts; 2) media, with commitments the media for women’s campaigning; to giving priority to women’s issues, 5) providing needed facilitation and voter education on women’s issues, and capacity development; 6) working for women-friendly impartial collaboration women’s empowerment and quotas; during the elections; 3) UN bodies, with 7) using social media to campaign commitments to ensuring inclusion for women; 8) promoting the slogan at all levels of society; 4) development of ‘one household, one vote’ for partners, with commitments to women; 9) supporting pregnant, working towards equal participation; 5) disabled, and elderly individuals at political parties, with commitments to polling stations; 10), rising above proportional participation and ensuring party politics in this historic election; wins for women; and 6) others, who 11) working towards a common made similar commitments. mechanism of coordination; 12) ensuring coordination continues Out of these commitments, 13 themes post-election as well; and 13) other were identified: 1) working for women’s commitments.

Box 1: EXAMPLE OF COMMITMENTS

n Our vote is for women candidates. n Our vote is for indigenous and ethnic tribal women. n We will work for women’s equality. n We will help and support disabled women. n Let us closely work with media to support women candidates. n Let us applaud and support women’s voice. n Ensure women’s rights. n Support women-friendly candidates. n Support women-friendly programs. NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT 29

SESSION 8: Enjoy Your Rights: Practical actions to enhance women’s participation and leadership in local elections

Panelists:

n Lily Thapa, Sajha Abhiyan

n Sharu Joshi, UN Gender Theme Group

Facilitator: n Babita Basnet

Lily Thapa, Sajha Abhiyan, asked the contesting elections through ‘men, women to not only take up challenges money, and muscles’ and argued that but also develop the self-confidence to it no longer holds true as women face them. She mentioned that Sajha have become aware and they will Abhiyan is devising strategies to ensure not sit idly watching men make the women win in the local elections. She decisions. Ms. Thapa urged everyone questioned the traditional notion of to speak up for women candidates 30 NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT

and only vote for those who raise social elections should be made women- issues. She asked women candidates friendly. Ms. Joshi also expressed the to not be intimidated by the talk about need to translate constitutional and the expense of election campaigns and legal provisions into practice. She instead asked them to turn to networks discussed the need to use available and groups such as Sajha Abhiyan resources strategically and urged the for support. She reiterated that this participants not to doubt any woman’s is a golden opportunity to bring new capacity, while at the same time female faces to ensure corruption- providing support to other women, free, accountable and transparent going beyond political strategies. governance that respects and protects women’s rights. During the discussion that followed, a major issue raised was that the Sharu Joshi, UN Gender Theme Women’s Charter did not include Group, thanked the ECN for hosting transgender women. Another this programme. She argued that participant urged everyone to take when women lack access to media, what they have learned during these information, and resources, they cannot two days to their villages, while a youth know their rights and the provisions leader was inspired by the presence of made for them. She stressed that to so many women leaders from around ensure women’s representation, the the country.

3.3 CLOSING SESSION

CLOSING SESSION: Vote of Thanks

Panelists: n Mr. Gopi Nath Mainali, Secretary, ECN n Mr. Nawaraj Dhakal, Joint Secretary, ECN

Facilitator: n Babita Basnet

Nawaraj Dhakal, Joint Secretary, ECN, ECN operates within the acts and laws mentioned that similar questions have to ensure an enabling environment for been raised elsewhere and in other voters. Mr. Dhaksal also stressed that fora on local elections. He reiterated elections are a process and highlighted that issues of representation have been the importance of raising awareness decided by the government and that the about all aspects of this process. He NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT 31

clarified the ballot paper design and forces are not eligible to vote as this the need for the large and complicated is a direct election. He stressed that design, and also talked about the women’s representation will translate number of polling stations based on the into increased good governance as total number of voters in each station. they are likely to take less risks and He thanked everyone for participating in engage in less corruption. In the end, he the conference. clarified that besides the seats reserved for women they can also contest other Gopi Nath Mainali, Secretary, ECN, free seats as well. With this, he thanked emphasized the shortened timeframe the participants of the conference and for the local elections. He clarified that declared a formal end to the conference civil servants and members of security

The conference created a space for possible through a two-day women leaders from different parts of national conference, ‘Towards the country to come together, share Planet 50:50: Enabling Women’s their experiences and advocate to Leadership and Representation the Election Commission Nepal and in Local Governance in political parties to ensure women’s Nepal’. It served as a platform representation in local decision to collectively advocate making positions. This was made for a gender-responsive 32 NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT

local election and contribute of half of the total population. to gender mainstreaming in The country is demanding female local governance. A total of 541 representation and meaningful representatives (313 female) participation, which are expected from the government, Inter-Party to substantially transform decision Women’s Alliance (IPWA), Sajha making in the political sphere Abhiyan and Association of (http://asiapacific.unwomen. Community Radio Broadcasting org/en/news-and-events/ participated in the inauguration stories/2017/05/call-for-womens- session. In addition, there were representation; https://www. 516 participants, including 334 facebook.com/unwomennepal/ women leaders, in technical posts/285595201891547; https:// sessions for the two-day event. twitter.com/unwomennepal/ During the conference, the status/864808189451059200). participants discussed their voting right, electoral process, system The participants also identified and the provisions on women’s critical action points to ensure participation and leadership that the local elections are gender in the Constitution and Local responsive. Representatives Level Election Act 2017. Women of major political parties also leaders also made commitment committed to the effective to contribute to ensure women’s implementation of the leadership and participation constitutional provisions to ensure in governance processes. A at least 40 per cent representation total of 39 local women leaders of women at the local level expressed their commitment election. Another outcome of the to file candidacy in the local conference was a recommendation elections. During the conference, for gender monitoring of the various speakers highlighted local level election. Capacity that women’s participation building with elected women is more than increment in representatives on gender women’s numbers and filling of responsive local governance was women-specific quotas. It is the also strongly requested. representation and recognition NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT 33 4 KEY THEMES

The conference was effective in clearing confusion about the constitutional and legal provisions for the local elections and in addressing criticisms regarding (the lack of) women’s leadership and participation in governance, political parties, the state, and societal structures. 34 NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT

The conference was effective in clearing confusion about the constitutional and legal provisions for the local elections and in addressing criticisms regarding (the lack of) women’s leadership and participation in governance, political parties, the state, and societal structures. The conference, by bringing together leadership from the national level and local-level women leaders, was able to impress upon all the equal status of women in all aspects of society, which has also been safeguarded by constitutional and legal provisions. The ability and capacity of women to take on leadership roles and perform has never been questioned and, in fact, based on international experience, women’s active participation has been shown to be more constructive for society in general. Therefore, women themselves need to seek and take an active part in public life by challenging the established patriarchal social values and attitudes, in which task the supportive role of family and society in general is vital.

4.1 DEMYSTIFYING WOMEN’S RIGHT TO LEADERSHIP AND PARTICIPATION

Women make up more than half themselves. This is further complicated the population of Nepal, yet their by the false reports in the media that participation in leadership positions women can only stand for deputy or and governance is disproportionately secondary positions in the forthcoming low. Even their limited participation is local elections. restricted by tokenism and does not add up to meaningful participation While social and cultural factors may as their access to and influence in restrict the progress of women in Nepal, decision-making is greatly reduced. The their capacity cannot and should not male-dominated composition of these be underestimated. In Nepal, there decision-making bodies further restricts historically have been women leaders women. Unfortunately, enduring who have either led themselves, or patriarchal values and attitudes seem supported other leaders during crucial to have been internalized by women political changes and gone on to make NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT 35

lasting impacts on Nepali politics. rights to participation in governance as At present, there are many women any other citizen; however, due to an in important leadership positions ingrained patriarchal social structure, in politics, government, and society women are denied space and support as a whole. Given the opportunity in politics and civil society. Therefore, and support, women have proven the issue of inclusion of women in themselves capable of providing governance, alongside that of other leadership and direction to society. As marginalized communities, must be citizens of Nepal, women have the same given greater attention.

4.2 NORMATIVE FRAMEWORK RELATED TO GENDER-RESPONSIVE ELECTIONS IN NEPAL

Nepal is undergoing an exercise in state-making as it implements the new constitution of 2015. The new constitution envisions an inclusive society with equal rights for all citizens as well as their participation at all levels of society. To that end, the constitution has made provisions where women, marginalized groups, and minorities have been provided reserved quotas for elected government bodies. For example, in the forthcoming local elections, women have been provided reserved seats of 40 percent, including Dalit women (20 percent), in all local decision-making bodies. In addition, the ECN has focused on ensuring inclusive elections by trying to ensure a women- friendly election infrastructure, such as women-led polling stations and giving priority to women, elderly, and disabled voters. In addition, the ECN there still remain contradictions has made a provision whereby women and inconsistencies between the candidates, minority candidates, and constitutional and legal provisions candidates from financially weak social related to women’s representation strata have to pay only 50 percent of the and participation, such as the 40 deposit amount. Despite these proactive percent reserved quota for women and positive provisions, however, being limited to the local bodies. 36 NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT

4.3 EXERCISING WOMEN’S RIGHTS: NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCES

That women can take leadership leadership is seen to be more effective positions and perform effectively has and efficient. However, one significant been demonstrated both nationally and under-reported element in this and internationally. In fact, women’s narrative of success is women’s long

struggle for their participation and public sphere, has been helped by representation. There is a long history various constitutional and legal of women’s movements for basic provisions such as mandatory rights such as education, suffrage, quotas for women’s representation. and health, among other things. With Therefore, even though women education and suffrage for women, are capable on their own, legal their participation in national and provisions for positive discrimination international politics has gradually are seen to be effective in increasing increased. Women’s participation, not their numbers and participation in only in the workforce but also in the governance. NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT 37

4.4 KEY LESSONS LEARNT FROM PAST ELECTIONS

Even with legal provisions for women’s relates to the third and fundamental participation and representation in the challenge for women candidates: the local bodies through the local elections, common lack of family and financial there are various obstacles for women as support. Any election campaign takes candidates and voters. Nepal’s election a toll not only on the candidates but system and process has always been also on the immediate family because characterized by excessive campaign candidates, as public figures, are expenditure and violence, as evidenced exposed to public scrutiny. by past elections. In this scenario, women candidates face three challenges. Amidst all the challenges faced by First, the intra-party committees for women candidates, the overarching nominating candidates are male- challenge is the need to increase the dominated, which works against the number of women candidates and nomination of women candidates. Even voters. In a patriarchal society like when they are nominated, they are Nepal, the distinct disadvantages nominated for constituencies where women face extends to their exposure there is a low probability of victory. and skills as candidates in dealing Second, traditionally, male candidates with public scrutiny, communicating have relied on a classic ‘men, muscle, with one’s constituency and the and money’ approach in their election media, and managing their family, campaigns, which is not only inherently all at the same time. The need to unfair and against the code of conduct, overcome this lack of experience and but women candidates are often unable fear of exposure is the biggest lesson to avail themselves of these tactics. This learnt from past experiences.

Box 2: KEY LESSONS LEARNT FROM PAST ELECTIONS

n There should be an increase in women’s participation in the election. n Persons violating the election code of conduct should be punished. n The polling booth should be women-friendly. n There should be security management for women’s safety. n There are women who hesitate to go to the polls fearing men’s touch. Therefore, election staff should also include women. n Political parties nominating more women candidates should be rewarded. n Women can do anything if they are self-confident. We should ensure a decisive role for our rights in the election. n Give top positions to women candidates. n Polling booths should be disabled-, senior citizen-, and sign language-friendly. n The societal notion that considers women inferior to men has to be changed. 38 NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT

4.5 WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP: BREAKING SOCIAL NORMS AND CHALLENGES

Historically, in times of emergency where men rose in protest when women and pressure, the state has been were manhandled and murdered. In a driven towards men’s engagement in patriarchal society like Nepal, there is a transforming societies. With the pace strong need for men to break gender- of time, men in Nepal have come up based discriminatory social norms with a more democratic, inclusive, and and to provide support for women’s participatory mindset rather than a leadership. It is equally important that hegemonic and masculine one. men work in partnership with women It started more than 100 years ago rather than only support their roles. when Prime Minister Junga Bahadur Rana forbade child marriage and Sati Although the women’s movement Pratha for females below 16 years. He in Nepal has not been that strong, had revolutionary thoughts even then, whenever a group has been suppressed, which could not be realized at that there have been revolutions in the time. Later, Prime Minister Chandra country. However, most of these Shumsher Rana succeeded in abolishing events have mainly been documented Sati Pratha, which was possible with as men’s stories. Therefore, proper men’s involvement. These gendered analysis of history is important in order transformations have been made to understand the Nepali women’s possible by the demands and pressure movement. The Beijing Conference of time. Similarly, there were also cases held 20 years ago has given rise to NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT 39

women’s movements that have brought aspects, but can also be critical. Usually, progress with them. Women’s voices voters will look at how a candidate can have been increasingly heard, at the contribute to their locality. Women need same as the economic status and to focus on this aspect and work with political representation of women media to promote their plans. Moreover, have improved. Issues of women’s women candidates need to be involved involvement in elections were already in programs such as talk shows and TV raised during the local elections held programs that would help to boost their 20 years ago. At the national and local candidature in the election. level, Sajha Abhiyan has been working for 22 years to improve women’s political About 40 percent of Nepal’s population and social representation. Whenever is considered youth. Among them elections have been conducted, Sajha about 82 percent are educated. If youth Abhiyan has worked with both men came together and worked to raise and women to improve women’s women’s awareness of their rights and participation. In the past, women were capabilities, this group could promote not able to talk to political candidates, the growth of Nepali society. Thus but today, they are working together far, the state has ignored investment with political parties to develop in youth, often considering them as strategies for their empowerment. immature. Some youth groups are also unaware of their roles in local elections. Similarly, the role of the media in Raising youth awareness about ensuring women’s participation in local elections and how they can contribute elections shows that there are pros and to youth- and gender-sensitive elections cons of working closely with media is equally important in breaking social sources. They will highlight positive norms and challenges. 40 NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT

4.6 POLITICAL COMMITMENTS

Nepal’s political parties are committed representation of women, Dalits, to the effective implementation of the and marginalized people in the local constitutional provisions that ought elections, political parties have come up to contribute towards furthering the with the following suggestions: cause of gender equality and the empowerment of women in Nepal. n The media, women’s organizations There are also political commitments like the Inter-Party Women’s Alliance, towards working closely with national Sajha Abhiyan, and NGOs/INGOs and international organizations and need to work closely with the ECN community in realizing the vital goals and political parties. as stated in the constitution through n Women should be elected either enhanced levels of partnership in for the position of mayor or deputy the context of increasing women’s mayor and chair or deputy chair leadership and representation. in the municipalities and rural municipalities respectively. Most of the political parties have a n The current trend of party leaders policy and strategy of nominating nominating their close relatives women and Dalits for candidacy in needs to be addressed. the local elections. In the upcoming local election, they will nominate at Political parties are committed least 33 percent of women and Dalits towards eliminating various types as per provisions of the constitution of electoral and physical violence and election acts for seats in the local including vandalism, intimidation, and elections. Women’s nominations manhandling. They are also committed will be slightly higher under the towards ensuring the safety of women inclusive quota (40 percent). In candidates and voters by implementing order to maintain 33 to 40 percent a security and voter education plan.

Box 3: POLITICAL PARTIES’ COMMITMENTS

Nepali Congress n Party wants to make candidates strong and capable. n Women are motivated to take leadership positions. n Efforts are made to nominate women candidates in all positions.

Unified Marxist and Leninist (UML) n More priority will be given to women candidates for mayor and deputy mayor positions and there will be one woman candidate out of three, including for the positions of mayor, deputy mayor, and ward chair. n Quota system is strictly followed while nominating candidates. NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT 41

n The party works within the criteria and adequate efforts will be paid in defining criteria considering gender concerns.

Rastriya Prajatantra Party n Party will ensure women’s rights and their claims to rights. n Constitutional provision should be amended and women’s rights should be exercised. n Ensure that women are also nominated as candidates for chair and vice- chair positions. n Eliminate all discrimination starting at the local level.

Tarai Madhes Democratic Party n Effort will be made to prioritize Dalit, Muslim, and women candidates. n Wherever there is chance of victory, only women will be nominated. n Party wants to encourage women who have been left behind. n Dalit, Muslim, and discriminated-against women will be given priority. n Veil system will be eliminated. n Party as a policy commits to making women self-reliant. 42 NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT 5 WAY FORWARD

The conference included informed presentations and wide-ranging discussions, based on which the following measures are deemed essential to achieve increased participation and representation of women in politics and governance. NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT 43

The conference included informed preferential representation of presentations and wide-ranging marginalized communities to ensure discussions, based on which the their participation in governance. following measures are deemed In addition, there should be a essential to achieve increased monitoring mechanism to ensure participation and representation of women’s representation in all women in politics and governance. state entities. To ensure women’s participation in the election process, n State and legal: The government it should be made women-friendly. should work to remedy the The government should also contradictory and inconsistent undertake extensive voter education constitutional and legal provisions in view of the changed constitutional on the inclusion of women and provisions and government structure minorities to reflect the vision arising from federalism. Voter of equality enshrined in the education is essential to ensure low constitution. Quotas for women, vote invalidation as the present ballot marginalized groups, and minorities paper is complex and large in size. should be extended to all levels of the governance structure rather n Political parties: Political parties than limiting them to the local should be encouraged to increase bodies. The government should the number of women members so formulate policies for proportional that there is a substantial pool of representation of women and women candidates during elections. 44 NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT

Political parties should include and responsibilities and how to women in nomination committees carry them out effectively. Women so that they can make the case for candidates should be provided women candidates. Political parties with security so that they can put should work towards proportional their energy into campaigning and representation of women in their raising women’s issues. organizational structures and sister wings. Political parties should n Civils society, media, youth: develop an organizational policy on These actors can play a catalytic preventing and addressing violence role in increasing women’s against women. participation and representation in politics and governance. They n Women candidates: There is a need have knowledge and skill as well as to increase the number of women access to resources that they can candidates beyond the reserved utilize in raising relevant issues. quotas. Women should also be They should coordinate their able to file their candidacy through activities to put pressure on the open and free competition. Women government and political parties candidates should be provided to implement the constitutional trainings to acquire and enhance and legal provisions on women’s their skills and capacities to contest participation in politics. They and run effective election campaigns. should also undertake voter Additional trainings should be education programs to encourage offered to female as well as male voter turn-out and the casting of winners post-election on their roles valid votes. NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT 45 6 ANNEXES 46 NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT

ANNEX 1: PROGRAMME AGENDA

National Conference Towards Planet 50:50: Enabling Women’s Leadership and Representation in Local Governance Hotel Annapurna, 20-21 April, 2017

20 APRIL, 2017 INAUGURAL SESSION

08:30 - 09:00 Registration Master of Ceremony: Ms. Babita Basnet 09:00 – 09:05 Invite guests to the Dias Chair: Chief Election Commissioner, Dr. Ayodhee Prasad Yadav 09:05 – 09:10 National Anthem by women’s group (Mangaldhun) 09:10 – 09:15 Welcome Remarks by Mr. Gopi Nath Mainali, Secretary, Election Commission Nepal 09:15 – 09:20 Inauguration of the National Conference: n Lighting the lamp by Chief Guest, Right Honourable Speaker, Onsari Gharti 09:20 – 10:30 Remarks by the Sajha Abhiyan (Women’s Group Coalition), Ms. Durga Ghimire Remarks by the President of the Inter Party Women’s Alliance, Ms. Pratibha Rana Remarks by UN Resident Coordinator, Ms. Valerie Julliand Remarks by Chief Guest, Right Honourable Speaker, Onsari Gharti Closing remarks by the Chief Election Commissioner, Dr. Ayodhee Prasad Yadav 10:30 – 11:00 High Tea

Technical Sessions Programme Kumari Hall, Hotel Annapurna, Nepal

FIRST DAY (20 APRIL, 2017)

Know Your Rights: Demystifying key elements in the Constitution of Nepal and Electoral Laws focusing on women’s leadership and participation

11:00 – 13:00 Panel presentation on: n Gender responsive provisions related to women’s leadership in the Constitution of Nepal, the Local Level Election Act (2017), the Election Commission Act (2017) n Presentation on the electoral management system (voting system, polling centers, human resource management, special provision for women voters) NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT 47

FIRST DAY (20 APRIL, 2017)

Know Your Rights: Demystifying key elements in the Constitution of Nepal and Electoral Laws focusing on women’s leadership and participation

n Electoral violence and women’s safety and security Speakers: Ms. Ila Sharma, Commissioner, ECN, Mr. Nawaraj Dhakal, Joint Secretary, ECN, and Mr. Nilkanta Uprety, Former Chief Election Commissioner Followed by discussion Facilitated by Mr. Bijay Paudyal 13.00 – 14.00 Lunch Break

Exercise Your Rights: Sharing, mentoring, uniting and demanding

14:00 – 15:00 Panel presentation on: Sharing of experiences by Ambassadors based in Nepal – best practices from other countries n Her Excellency, Ms. Alaina B. Teplitz, Embassy of the United States to Nepal, n Her Excellency, Ms. Mashfee Binte Shams, Embassy of Bangladesh to Nepal, n Her Excellency, Ms. W. Swarnalatha Pereira, Embassy of Sri Lanka to Nepal, and n His Excellency, Mr. Kjell Tormod Pettersen, Royal Norwegian Embassy to Nepal Followed by discussion Facilitated by Santosh Shah 15:00 – 15:15 Tea Break 15:15- 16:30 Women in decision making – lessons from Nepal n Ms. Bandana Rana, CEDAW Committee Member n Ms. Sulochan Shrestha Shah, UN Global Compact Followed by discussion Facilitated by Ms. Babita Basnet 16:30 – 17:15 Reflections and lessons learnt from past elections by the women’s movement – what worked and what did not work? n Ms. Benu Maya Gurung, Sajha Abhiyan n Ms. Kala Swarnakar, Sajha Abhiyan n Ms. Shashi Shrestha, Inter Party Women’s Alliance Followed by discussion Facilitated by Ms. Tika Dahal 17.15-17.30 Mock polling exercise Facilitated by Election Commission Nepal Closing 48 NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT

SECOND DAY (21 APRIL, 2017)

Claim Your Rights: Breaking social norms and challenging mindsets that hold women back

8:30-10:15 Panel discussion: n Men’s role in promoting women’s leadership – Mr. Kapil Kafle, Coordinator, Secretariat of South Asia Men Engage Alliance n The role of the women’s movement – Ms. Saloni Singh (Pradhan), Sajha Abhiyan n The role of media – Dr. Mahendra Bista, President, Federation of Nepalese Journalists n Voices of youth advocates- Ms. Kanchan Magar, Youth Leader Followed by discussion Facilitated by Mr. Chewan Rai 10:15-10:30 Tea break

The Enablers: What can political parties do to make women viable candidates

10:30-12:30 n Nepali Congress: Ms. Kiran Koirala n United Marxist and Leninist (UML): Honorable MP Dr. Rajan Bhattarai, n Maoist-Centre (MC): Ms. Pampha Bhusal, n Rastriya Prajantral Pary (RPP): Honorable MP Ms. Kunti Shahi, n Terai Madhes Democratic Party: Mr. Sarbendra Nath Shukla Followed by discussion Facilitated by Mr. Bijay Paudyal 12:30-12:45 n Collection of commitments Participants to proceed to ‘I COMMIT’ photo standee for commitment pictures with their ‘I COMMIT’ card and to put their cards on the ‘I COMMIT’ board. Facilitated by Mr. Bijay Paudyal 12:45-13:45 Lunch Break

Enjoy Your Rights: Practical actions to enhance women’s participation and leadership in local elections

15:00-16:00 Interaction with Mr. Gopi Nath Mainali, Secretary, Election Commission Nepal, and Mr. Nawaraj Dhakal, Joint Secretary, Election Commission Nepal Open discussion Facilitated by Ms. Babita Basnet

Closing Session: Master of Ceremony Mr. Bijay Paudyal

16:00- 16:30 Vote of Thanks n Chief Commissioner, Election Commission Nepal n Ms. Lily Thapa, Sajha Abhiyan n Ms. Wenny Kusuma, Chair, United Nations Country Team, Gender Theme Group 16:30 Press release shared with media NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT 49

ANNEX 2: WOMEN’S CHARTER

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sfgg' s ]f zf;g, ;j+ w}flgs ;jfR{]rtf Pj+ gk] fnn ] /fli6o« / cGt/fl{i6o« I q]f df hgfPs ]f kl| tjåtfnfO { Aojxfl/s ¿kdf nfu " ug {' u/fpg ' /fHosf ;a } lgsfo tyf cËx¿s ]f dxTjk0' {f bfloTj x ]f . o; kl/kI]| odf gk]] fn ;/sf/n ] ;l+ jwfg sfo G{f jogs ]f Ps dxTjk0" {f sfos{ ]f ?kdf @)&$ ;fn jz} fv #! ut ] :yfgLo txs ]f lgj r{f g ug {] 3fi] f0ff u/s] ]f 5 . ;j+ w} flgs Aoj:yf cg;' f/ ;3+ Lo ljwflosf / kb| z] ;efs ]f lgj r{f g ;dt] ldlt @)&$ ;fn df3 & ut ] leq ;DkGg eO;{ Sg ' kb5{ . o; cj;/df :yfgLo txs ]f cf;Gg lgj r{f gdf dlxnfx¿s ]f ;f/et" ;dfgtf kf| lKts ]f clwsf/ ;l' glZrt ug { :yflgo txs ]f lgj r{f gdf dlxnf ;xeflutfsf nflu ;femf cleofg tyf gful/s ;dfh ;Nnfxsf/ ;dx" nufot ljleGg gful/s ;~hfnx¿s ]f ;Nnfx / ;e' mfa ;s+ ng u/L dlxnfsf ;femf ;jfnx¿nfO { Plsst[[ ub {} cf;Gg lgj r{f gsf nflu o ]f dlxnf a8fkq (Women Charter) tof/ u/L hf/L u/s] f 5f +} .

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dtbftf lzIff sfoq{ mdnfO { ;dfjz] L agfpgsf nflu hghflt, dw;] L, blnt nufot uf| ld0f dlxnfx¿s ]f dtbftf lzIffdf kxrF' ;l' glZrt ug {] Aoa:yf ul/g ' kg {] . dtbftf lzIff ;fdfuL| x¿ tof/ ub {f gk] fndf ljBdfg eflifs tyf ; :+f sl[ ts ljljwtf ;dt] nfO { Wofgdf /fvL uf| ld0f dlxnfx¿n ] ;dt] ae' g\m ] efiff / zn} L ko| u]f ug,{ ] u/fpg ] Aoj:yf ul/g ' kg {] . lgj r{f g cfo u]f , ;r' gf tyf ;~rf/ dGqfno, gk] fn ;/sf/n ] ljleGg ;~rf/ dfWodx¿ dfk t{m :yfgLo tyf /fli6o« txdf lgj r{fg ;DalGw ;r' gf ;fdfuL| tof/ ubf,{ kr|f/ k;|f/ ub {fkm/s Ifdtf ePsf dtbftf nofut ;a } dtbftfx¿n ] je' g\m ] efiff, lrq, /v] f lrGxx¿ ko| u]f ug {] Aoj:yf ;l' glZrt ug {'kg {] . :yfgLo txs ]f lgj r{f gnfO { dWogh/ /fvL lgj r{f g cfo u]f n ] k;]| sfplG;nåf/f tof/ u/s] ]f ;~rf/ dfWoddf dlxnf pQ/bfoL kqsf/ cfrf/;l+ xtf, @)&# kfngf ug {u/fpg cfjZos ;dGjo ug {]. ;dfrf/ ;Dki] | f0f ub {f :j:y, lhDdj] f/ ;dfhs ]f lgd 0{f fdf d2t kU' g ] ljifonfO { kf| yldstf lbg ' kb5{ . lgj r{fg koj{I] f0f ;DaGwL cfrf/ ;l+ xtf tof/ ub {f ;~rf/ dfWod, /fli6o« lgj r{f g koj{ I] fs / cgu' dgst x{f ?, dfgj clwsf/ ;DaGwL lgsfox¿ / gful/s ;dfhn ] lgj r{f gsf b /}f fgdf dlxnf lj¿å ePsf lx;+ fs ]f klg koj{ I] f0f ugk{' g {] Aoa:yf ;l' glZrt ug,{ ] u/fpg ] . ljzi] ful/ ;~rf/ dfWodx¿n ] dlxnf pDdb] jf/x¿s ]f lxt ljkl/t xg' ] u/L nl+ } us eb] efjnfO { k| T]f ;fxg ug,{ ] kg' M:yflkt ug {];dfrf/x?s ]f kr|f/ k;|f/ ug {]sfon{fO {kl|tjGw nufpg ] / ;r+ f/ dfWodn ] lgj r{f gsf nl+ } Ës ;jfnx¿nfO { km/s nl+ } Ës bl[ i6s 0]f f, cfjZostf / rf; s]f f ;fy :yfg / kf| yldstf lbgk' b5{ . lgj r{f gs ]f kr| f/k;| f/, hn' ;' , ¥ofln, rg' fjL cleofg, hgen] f tyf cGo sfos{ ]f b /}f fgdf dlxnf pDdb] jf/s ]f rl/qdf c rFf cfpg ] ul/ kr| f/ k;| f/ ug { jf sg' } klg ks| f/s ]f cleAolQm lbg gkfpg ] Aoj:yf ;l' glZrt ul/gk' g {] . lgj r{f gdf sg' } klg ks| f/s ]f dlxnf lx;+ f xg' glbg ;/' Iffs ]f cfjZos kj| Gw ul/g ' kg {] . dlxnf pDdb] jf/ tyf dlxnf dtbftfx¿s ]f ;/' Iffsf nflu ;/' Iff lgsfo / Goflos lgsfox¿nfO { zL3 | kl/rfng ug { pkoQ' m jftfj/0f / plrt kj|Gw ug {xN] knfOg{ ;j] fs ]f Aoj:yf ul/g ' kg {] .

/fhgLlts bnx¿ :yfgLo tx -u pFf kflnsf÷gu/kflnsf_ df dlxnfs ]f hg;V+ ofs ]f cfwf/df ;dfgk' flts ;xeflutf xg' ] Aoj:yf ;l' glZrt ul/gk' g {] . pDdb] jf/ 3fi] f0ff ub {fgk] fns ]f ;l+ jwfgs ]f dd {tyf lbu ]f ljsf; nIon ] kl/nlIft u/s] ]f ;g \ @)#) ;Dddf x/s] I q]f / txdf ;dfjz] L ?kn ] cfwf cfwf lx:;fdf (50:50 inclusively) dlxnf / k?' if ba' n} fO { k¥' ofpg ] ;afk{] l/ p2Z] o kf| KtLsf nflu :yfgLo txsf kd| v" / pkkd| v" kbdf dlxnfx¿s ]f Gog" td krf; kl| tzt lht ;l' glZrt ug { dlxnfx?s ]f lardf dfq kl| t:kw {f xg' ] ;j+ w} flgs Joj:yf ul/g ' kg {] . kfl6s{ ]f gLltut Aoj:yf ;fjh{ lgs ul/ cfk g\m ]f bns ]f :yfgLo gt] T[ j / sfos{ t n{f fO { nl} Ës tyf ;dfjz] L ;jfndf kl| zIf0f lbg ] Aoj:yf ul/gk' g {] . dlxnf jf dlxnf pDdb] jf/dfly xg' ] zfl//Ls, o g}f hGo jf dg j]f 1} flgs wfs tyf wlDsx¿ cfpg glbg ;/' Iffs ]f clwsf/ ;l' glZrt ug { /fhgLlts bns ]f cfGtl/s ;/+ rgf, lgj r{f g koj{ I] f0fs ]f sfo;{ l" r nufot Goflos tyf cwG{ oflos lgsfodf cfjZos ph/' L ;o+ Gqs ]f Aoj:yf ug {] / u/fpg ] Aoa:yf ul/g ' kg {] . cfufdL lgj r{f gdf dlxnf kl| tlglwTj ;l' glZrt ug { /fhgl} ts bnx¿n ] pDdb] jf/nfO { kb| fg ug {] cflys{ ;xo u]f dlxnf pDdb] jf/s ]f xsdf b A]f a/ xg' ] Aoj:yf ul/g ' kg {] . pDdb] jf/x¿ dg g]f og ub {flgj r{fg Pg] s ]f k0" {fkfngf ug {]Aoj:yf ul/g ' kg {]. :yflgo txdf dlxnfn ] efl] u/xs] f ;d:ofx¿s ]f ts;{ Ddt tyf Aojxfl/s 9Ën ] ljZni] f0f ul/ dlxnfsf clwsf/x¿ ;l' glZrt ug {] gLlt tyf sfoq{ md, /0fgLlt / > t]f ;fwgs ]f plrt Aoj:yf ugk'{ g {] .

:yfgLo txs ]f lgj r{f gdf dlxnf ;xeflutfsf nflu ;femf cleofg gful/s ;dfh ;Nnfxsf/ ;dx" Collective Campaign for Women’s Participation in Local Election Civil Society Advisory Group (CSAG) NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT 51

ANNEX 3: SNAPSHOTS OF THE EVENT 52 NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT 53 54 NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT 55 56 NATIONAL CONFERENCE REPORT

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:yfgLo txsf] lgjf{rgdf dlxnf ;xeflutfsf nflu ;femf cleofg UNITED NATIONS