CIVIL SOCIETY: MUTUAL ACCOUNTABILITY PROJECT

Quarterly Progress Report April 1–June 30, 2019

July 30, 2019

Cooperative Agreement Number AID-367-A-16-00007

Project Start and End Date: April 4, 2016 to April 3, 2021

Submitted to: Krishna Pathak, Agreement Officer’s Representative USAID

Submitted by: Bishnu Sapkota, Chief of Party, Civil Society: Mutual Accountability Project FHI 360 GPO Box 8803, Gopal Bhawan Anamika Galli, Baluwatar, Kathmandu, Nepal Tel: 977.1.4437173 Email: [email protected]

This document was prepared by FHI 360 for review by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The contents do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United States Government. Civil Society: Mutual Accountability Project 1 Quarterly Progress Report No. 10 April 1–June 30, 2019

Contents ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS 3 Executive Summary 6 1. Introduction 11 2. Context 11 3. Progress Overview 14 4. Activity Progress 26 4.1 Development and submission of deliverables 26 4.2 Progress achieved toward project objectives 27 5. Cross-Cutting Interventions 75 5.1 Gender equality and social inclusion 75 5.2 Youth Engagement 76 5.3 Use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) 76 6. Coordination and Collaboration 77 7. Monitoring and Evaluation 78 8. Travel Update 81 9. Activity Progress Summary 82 10. Priorities for Next Quarter (July 1–September 30, 2019) 82 11. Success Stories 82 12. Challenges and Mitigation Measures 82 13. Lessons Learned 83 14. Annexes 84

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Abbreviations and Acronyms

AIN Association of International NGOs in Nepal AMO Advocacy, monitoring, and oversight AOR Agreement Officer’s Representative ARI Advocacy readiness index AWP Annual work plan CA Common Assembly CAG Content advisory group CAR Community Action Researchers CDC Community Development Center CDCS Country Development Cooperation Strategy CIAA Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority CS:MAP Civil Society: Mutual Accountability Project CR Community Reporter CSC Community Score Card CSO Civil society organization CSR Corporate social responsibility DEC Development Experience Clearinghouse DEC Nepal Development Exchange Center Nepal DQA Data quality assessment DRR Disaster risk reduction EAI Equal Access International FDM Foundation for Development Management FGD Focus group discussion FMDC Media for Development and Social Change FNJ Federation of Nepali Journalists FOA Freedom of Association FOE Freedom of Expression GESI Gender equality and social inclusion GGB Good governance barometer GoGo Foundation Good Governance Foundation

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GON Government of Nepal HEAD Health, education, agriculture, and disaster risk reduction HUARDEC Human Rights Awareness and Development Center ICNL International Center for Not-for-Profit Law IHRC Information and Human Right Research Center IHRICON Institute of Human Rights Communication Nepal IJ Investigative journalism INHURED International International Institute for Human Rights, Environment and Development INSEC Informal Sector Service Center IIP Institutional improvement plan IRDC Indreni Rural Development Center IRDS Integrated Rural Development Services ISO Intermediary Service Organization IVR Interactive voice response LDAG Listening, discussion, and action group LLPP Local level planning process MAG Media advocacy group MC Martin Chautari M&E Monitoring and evaluation MEL Monitoring, evaluation, and learning MITRA Samaj Measures for Intervention Training Research and Action Samaj MOFAGA Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration MOU Memorandum of Understanding NCP Nepal Communist Party NEOC National Election Observation Committee NEPAN Nepal Participatory Action Network NFN NGO Federation of Nepal NGO Non-governmental organization NHRC National Human Rights Commission NNSWA Nepal National Social Welfare Association NPC National Planning Commission

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NRA National Reconstruction Authority OCA Organizational capacity assessment OGP Open Government Partnership PEAR Participatory and evidence-based action research PETS Public expenditures tracking (system) POC Public outreach campaign PPWG Public-private working group PSA Public service announcement RTI Right to information RWDC Rural Women Development Center SA Social Accountability SAP Nepal South Asia Partnership Nepal SMS Short message service SMV SMS My Voice SOCH Nepal Society for Humanism Nepal SSMK Saathi Sanga Manka Kura USAID United States Agency for International Development

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Executive Summary

The ruling Nepal Communist Party (NCP) took more than 10 months to appoint district-in- charges. The delay, caused by the longstanding feud between Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and senior leader Madhav Kumar Nepal, not only protracted the party unification process but also brought the intraparty feud to the surface. It distracted the leadership from focusing on important processes and plans to fully implement federalism. The growing tussle between the NCP and the opposition Nepali Congress Party has also affected the lawmaking process as parliamentary sessions have often been stalled due to the row between ruling and opposition lawmakers. Had there been a healthy relationship between the ruling and the opposition parties, they could have formulated many laws and policies that, in turn, could have further strengthened the nascent federalism.

Even with that political situation, capacity-building efforts conducted in the last quarter by the Civil Society: Mutual Accountability Project (CS:MAP) helped civil society and media organizations begin policy review, as and when needed, based on constitutional values and international standards. Trained participants reviewed civil society and media-related federal and provincial policies, prepared policy briefs, and shared the briefs with more than 200 stakeholders. Civil society and media actors collaborated for joint advocacy to revise proposed provisions in the National Human Rights Commission bill and Media Council bill. This collaboration has contributed to the improvement of relations between civil society and media sectors. Civil society coalition signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Association of International NGOs in Nepal (AIN) to strengthen the civil society enabling environment and promote the internal governance and self-regulation of civil society. AIN has agreed to promote the civic charter and internal governance standards, developed by the civil society coalition leaders, through the civil society partners of its members. Twenty-one national-level society alliances and networks formed a team of experts, led by NGO Federation of Nepal (NFN) to work on internal governance, find a modality for implementation, and monitor implementation. The team has prepared 15 distinct indicators related to different domains of institutional governance and management that include operational management, leadership development, human resource management, financial management, strategic planning, and gender equality and social inclusion (GESI). Government and political leaders from ruling parties have publicly committed to making the necessary changes to the Media Council bill and National Human Rights Commission bill as per the recommendations from media and civil society coalitions.

Outcomes under objectives of Indo-Pacific Strategy:

Increased engagement of local government with civil society: Civil society coalition and local government associations jointly developed a common position regarding civil-society-related policy at the local government level. This includes civil society demands and recommendations with regard to civil society registration and operation. The local government associations have agreed to share the position paper with all local governments asking them to consider it in the policymaking process of their respective local units.

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Open Government Partnership (OGP) Handbook disseminated: The handbook on OGP developed by CS:MAP to promote understanding about OGP and foster citizen government partnership was published and widely disseminated to local governments and CSOs. CS:MAP held a presentation and discussion on OGP in Dang and Nuwakot.

OGP steering committee formed in Neelakantha municipality, Dhading: At the stakeholders’ meeting on April 9, 2019, Neelakantha municipality, Dhading, formed a 20-member OGP Steering Committee led by Mayor Bhim Prasad Dhungana. The municipality implemented OGP October 4, 2018, the first in Nepal to do so, and is engaged in promoting OGP principles. The committee includes CSO leaders, Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ), Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, consumer groups, and women groups. The committee will develop an OGP action plan to render the municipality more open, transparent, accountable, and effective.

Increased use of social accountability (SA) tools in CS:MAP districts: CS:MAP partners conducted 14 orientations on the use of SA tools to help local government understand the value of using these tools. As a result, 13 local governments conducted public hearings in CS:MAP districts. The local governments requested support from CS:MAP partners for these hearings, which showed increased engagement between CSOs and government. CS:MAP partners implemented other SA tools such as good governance barometer, public expenditure tracking, social audits, community score cards in close coordination with local governments. These tools contributed to improve the quality of public services, budget transparency, responsiveness of service providers. Sundar Nepal in Surkhet has disclosed information proactively, as required by the Right to Information (RTI) Act—becoming perhaps the first non-governmental organization in the district to do so. Sundar Nepal disclosed 20 types of information to the public by displaying them on notice board of the organization. Information and Human Rights Research Center (IHRC) also initiated disclosing 20 types of information as required by the RTI Act. Every quarter, IHRC publishes information on all types of activities, their costs, and other details on its notice board. RTI proactive disclosure template has been circulated among working local governments in project districts and technical support is being provided to them for filling up the template. Regarding the use of Open Local Government Digital System (OLGDS), some local governments in project districts showed willingness to replicate OLGDS and Sajha Sabha Apps. Technical support from CS:MAP, in days ahead, will help these local governments to make OLGDS and Sajha Sabha Apps fully operational. The use of ICT in Neelakantha municipality of Dhading and Nepalgunj sub-metropolitan city has contributed to promote municipal transparency, accountability and feedback sharing mechanisms on public services among citizens and different stakeholders.

District-level achievements:

CS:MAP works at the local level helped in formulating eight policies in this quarter and seven others are under consultation with CS:MAP support. The policies are related to governance, veterinary services, quality education, health, and agriculture services. For instance, Gorkha municipality, Gorkha; Triveni gaunpalika (rural municipality), Rolpa; Kapurkot gaunpalika, Salyan, and Triveni gaunpalika, Rukum formulated governance policy. Ghorahi submetropolitan city formulated veterinary services policy and sickle cell anemia policy. Sarumarani gaunpalika, Pyuthan formulated policy related to district risk reduction

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(DRR) funds, and Narayan municipality, Dailekh finally formulated multi-stakeholder operational guidelines. In addition, CS:MAP is working on agricultural policy for Suryabinayak and Chagunarayan municipality in Bhaktapur and Sanfebagar municipality and Bannegadi gaunpalika, Achham; on health policy in Chattrakot gaunpalika, Gulmi; and on governance policy in Roshi gaunpalika and Panchkhaal municipality in Kavre. The local-level advocacy could also bring different civil society organizations (CSOs) from the districts together for joint advocacy. For example, Sundar Nepal Sanstha in Dailekh and CSO coalition in Dailekh jointly advocated to enforce meeting procedure guidelines for a multi-stakeholder social accountability forum. These guidelines have been enforced, and the municipality has also allocated 0.1 million rupees for this forum. Indreni Rural Development Center (IRDC) Kapilvastu has submitted a draft public hearing guideline to Vijay Nagar municipality to enforce the guideline as soon as possible. Likewise, Integrated Rural Development Services (IRDS) Arghakhanchi submitted a social audit guideline for Panini gaunpalika, which will be enforced next quarter. A total of 340 out of 392 school buildings have been constructed in Ramechhap as a result of advocacy efforts facilitated by a CS:MAP partner. Another 25 are under construction. The stakeholders have declared 40 points to improve education in Manthali municipality and 24 points in Khadadevi gaunpalika, Ramechhap. Currently, the declaration is being implemented by the concerned stakeholders, i.e., the school, the school management committee, division education office, and local governments. The local government in Dang allocated a budget for citizens affected by sickle cell anemia. Ghorahi submetropolitan city will conduct a blood transfusion service program for people affected by sickle cell anemia and use 1.5 million rupees to provide free blood, health checkups, and an awareness-raising program. Tulsipur sub-metropolitan city allocated 1 million rupees for treating and raising awareness about sickle cell anemia. Ten Sajha Sabha (Public Forum) meetings held in project districts provided platforms for disseminating good practices, achievements, and success stories from Common Assembly and Sajhedari Manch (Partnership Forum) deliberations. Service providers from across the districts, legislators, civil society representatives, media, and citizens participated in the Sajha Sabha meetings and learned how municipalities/gaunpalika on which CS:MAP focuses have worked collaboratively to promote civic engagement, accountability, and transparency measures. Sajha Sabha meetings also served as platforms to link local issues/agenda with legislators for federal and provincial level attention, advocacy, and lobbying. In this quarter, CS:MAP partners conducted eight public expenditure tracking system (PETS) searches on distribution of scholarship funds in community schools—Samudayik Sarathi in Sindhupalchowk district, Society for Humanism (SOCH) Nepal in Gorkha, Development Exchange Center (DEC) Nepal in Makwanpur, Institute of Human Rights Communication Nepal (IHRICON) in Bhaktapur, Sundar Nepal in Jajarkot and Surkhet, Media for Development and Social Change (FMDC) in Kailali. The findings showed protracted delay in distribution of scholarship amounts, funds were distributed proportionately to entire eligible students, and list of scholarship recipients was not posted on the notice boards. CSOs shared PETS findings with division chiefs of municipalities/gaunpalika. In this quarter, CSOs conducted 12 community score cards (CSCs) in health posts. These CSCs served as platforms for service providers and citizens at the community level to

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identify gaps, explore constraints qualitatively, jointly discuss issues in public service delivery, and resolve them amicably through formulation of action plans. Sundar Nepal Sanstha implemented CSC in Bheriganga Health Post in Bheriganga municipality, Ramghat, Surkhet for the first time. CSC was used to improve accountability and public service delivery of the health post. Similarly, SOCH Nepal implemented CSC to Prapcha Health Post in Molung gaunpalika in Okhaldhunga. Findings showed lack of a separate room for family planning counseling and immunization, unfriendly behavior of the staff, lack of room for the village clinic, ineffective waste disposal system, lack of display of citizen charter in visible place, lack of stretchers for carrying patients, lack of awareness programs in schools, lack of women-friendly toilets, lack of training for female community health volunteers including no regular supply of water. A monitoring committee was formed to oversee implementation of the action plan which sets out actions, deadlines, and responsibilities to address these identified issues. Media accomplishments:

This quarter, CS:MAP’s media coalition lead partner—the Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ)—led several rounds of advocacy efforts and protests against the government, seeking comprehensive reform to the Media Council bill tabled in the federal parliament. Also, 86 news articles related to health, education, DRR, agriculture, and governance have been published in online and print media. Partner CSOs are engaged in writing their cases through MeroReport and other media. They realize the importance of media mobilization and published materials, which can be used as evidence, for advocacy. Fifty-five journalists selected from the participants of advocacy, monitoring, and oversight (AMO) and investigative journalism (IJ) training from previous years receive continuous mentoring support from CS:MAP partner Equal Access International (EAI). At least 36 journalists wrote and published articles on public interest issues; health, education, agriculture, disaster risk reduction (HEAD) areas; and policy gaps with a focus on issues related to marginalized groups. At least 52 of the articles were published in MeroReport while others were published in online and print media including Annapurna Post, Nagarik Daily, My Republica, Himal Khabar, and others. Linkage between the trained journalists and the CSOs is strengthened by ensuring joint efforts such as journalists participating in the CSOs’ activities and discussing common issues raised by both through their research. The use of MeroReport increased as did the number of blogs: 375 by community reporters (CRs), 72 by CSO representatives, 59 by trained journalists, and four by community action researchers (CARs). The issues covered showed growing public interest and concern over health, education, agriculture, DDR, and GESI. The growth in the number and quality of blogs by CS:MAP stakeholders demonstrates a crucial rise in consistent monitoring and reporting on cross-sectorial public service delivery.

Sustainability and local ownership:

The principles of OGP are being widely discussed in CS:MAP districts. The OGP steering committee formed in Neelakantha municipality, Dhading, is an example of local ownership. The municipality’s 20-member OGP Steering Committee will continue its working and the municipality will support directly for its sustainability based on the action plan.

The advocacy capacity of 14 CS:MAP CSO partners increased by 1.95 (baseline 0.87 to 2.85 advocacy readiness index [ARI] cumulative score). With this increased capacity for

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advocacy, the CSOs have been able to lead advocacy initiatives more effectively. This capacity will remain at the local level even beyond CS:MAP. In addition, CS:MAP has received an increased number of requests to support the CSOs coalition in advocacy planning and implementation.

Challenges and mitigation measures:

To conduct advocacy on policies, copies of the draft bills are needed. Limited access to the prioritized policies and draft bills forced CSOs to mainly follow reactive advocacy measures. CS:MAP partners used their personal contacts/relations to get information on policy priorities and, even, drafts.

Civil society and media sectors have realized the need to improve the legitimacy and credibility of their institutions through enhanced internal governance and self-regulation. However, developing and implementing widely accepted internal governance and self- regulation mechanisms is complicated due to the heterogeneity of the sectors. Consultation with a wider sector, alliances, and networks will help accomplish ownership and uniform basic guidelines and a moral binding document among CSOs and media across the nation. The participatory policymaking process is new to all local governments. They have taken on the burden to formulate, revise, and enforce laws and policies and fear saying that “they do not know.” CS:MAP provided continuous support to CSOs and local government to understand the importance of transparent, inclusive, and participatory policymaking. The constructive engagement of CSOs played an important role in collaboration with local governments in CS:MAP districts in participatory policymaking.

Lessons learned:

● A good relationship with parliamentary committees and different ministries is helpful in getting the information regarding policy priorities and even getting drafts when the government is not ready to provide such drafts in advance for public consultation. ● Though the elected representatives are responsible for formulating laws/policies, they also have limitations when it comes to specific laws and policies. So, civil society needs to be proactive and render support in drafting such laws/policies. ● Engaging a wider group of CSOs and networks in advocacy and helping them generate evidence builds on the collective efforts for advocacy as well as building the confidence of those networks. ● The concept of capacity building through intermediary service organizations (ISOs) is noble in itself but the limitations of ISO staff capacity in policy provisions, local government policies, and federal structures demands bringing in more short-term experts for capacity building, which does not build the capacity of ISO partners.

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1. Introduction

CS:MAP, implemented by FHI 360 in partnership with Equal Access International (EAI) and the International Center for Not-for-Profit Law (ICNL), aims to foster a more legitimate, accountable, and resilient Nepali civil society that can advance the public interest. It will achieve this by accomplishing four objectives, while incorporating GESI across all project activities. The objectives are:

1. Strengthened enabling environment for civil society and media

2. Improved civil society and media capacity for effective policy advocacy and government engagement

3. More coordinated and effective civil society and media oversight of public resource use and public service delivery

4. Strengthened organizational capacity and sustainability of selected CSOs working in USAID priority sectors to advance local solutions

2. Context

National context:

The ruling Nepal Communist Party (NCP)’s unification process saw new complications on the party’s ideological orientation, and it created differences among senior leaders. A set of Government’s new policies and decisions got into controversy both within the ruling party and outside. Prime Minister KP Oli admitted that the government was not able to perform as expected and initiated a review of performances of the cabinet ministers. The NCP took more than 10 months to appoint district-in-charges. The longstanding feud between Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli and senior leader Madhav Nepal not only protracted the unification process, but also brought the intraparty feud to the surface and distracted the leadership from focusing on important processes and plans to fully implement federalism.

The programs and policies of the federal government unveiled through the budget of Rs 1.53 trillion for fiscal year 2019/20 presented on May 29 allocated 38.1 percent as gender responsive. The much-anticipated increase to the social security allowance for senior citizens from Rs 2,000 to 3,000 per month was included. While the government defended the budget as being focused on social security and infrastructure development, the opposition parties termed it ambitious and populist. They said the budget contained no measures to control spiraling prices and inflation, rather the salary of civil servants was increased by 18–20 percent, fueling the rising price of goods and services which hits people living below the poverty line. The economy cannot sustain the increased expenses while revenue collection is dismal, they said. People have become dissatisfied with budgetary provisions such as Rs 7.7 billion allocated for rail, metro rail, and monorail; absolute ban on drinking and smoking in public places which has nothing to do with the budget; and upgrading Tribhuvan International Airport to a boutique airport. The most criticized provision is the increase in the electoral constituency budget to Rs 60 million

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that a member of parliament can spend. The growing tussle between the ruling NCP and the opposition Nepali Congress Party has also affected the lawmaking process as the parliamentary sessions have often been stalled due to the row between the ruling and the opposition lawmakers. The Public Service Commission (PSC), an independent constitutional body to recruit civil servants, has been mired in controversy following its announcement to recruit 9,161 personnel for the local governments. The decision invited protests from marginalized communities and antagonized the provincial governments. The protests stemmed mainly from not honoring the principle of inclusion and undermining the powers of the provincial governments. The PSC has not allocated seats for all the clusters that qualify for reservation in government jobs as per the provisions of Article 42 of the constitution.

The action has been understood as a violation of the constitutional rights of marginalized people. Article 42 stipulates “socially backward women, Dalit, indigenous people, indigenous nationalities, Madhesi, Tharu, minorities, persons with disabilities, marginalized communities, Muslims, backward classes, gender and sexual minorities, youths, farmers, laborers, the oppressed or citizens of backward regions and indigent Khas Arya shall have the right to participate in the state bodies on the basis of inclusive principle.” Parliamentarians from the opposition parties and the provincial governments questioned the intention of the PSC to recruit such a huge number of civil servants for the local government by the center. Five writ petitions were filed at the Supreme Court challenging the legitimacy of the move. The court decided that the PSC can recruit to the vacancies as all of those eligible for government jobs have the right to apply.

Civil society representatives say there has been widespread dissatisfaction among the people, civil society activists, and political leaders of various parties as the government—in the name of meeting the deadline—has been formulating laws and policies without consulting the stakeholders. The bureaucrats and parliamentarians involved in the lawmaking process are reluctant to share drafts of the laws and invite stakeholders for consultation. Therefore, it has increasingly been realized that the space of civil society in facilitating the government and representing the people in the lawmaking process has been shrinking beyond expectation. The Media Council bill, information technology (IT) bill, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) bill, and Guthi (trust) bill, among others, drafted by the Government of Nepal (GON) are directly related to the freedom of expression, freedom of speech, and cultural and human rights. These bills not only sparked public debates, but also led to a series of protests against the move of the government. These most contested ones not only drew flak from stakeholders, but also created heated debate between the ruling and opposition members of parliament. The divided opinion of the ruling party top leaders, particularly on Media Council bill and Guthi bill, added fuel to the fire. The public concern is that these bills were brought up without proper consultation with stakeholders—a crucial part of making laws in a democratic system. Following the mounting pressure and growing protests from journalists, human rights activists, and the local people, particularly the Newar community of Kathmandu Valley, the government put the Media Council bill on hold and withdrew the Guthi bill while the IT and NHRC bills are stuck in limbo. The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) and other media- related organizations protested and demanded the withdrawal of the Media Council bill,

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citing its restrictive provisions. The FNJ submitted 17 points for amendment to the bill, arguing that the bill would curtail freedom of expression. Twenty-one editors associated with various publications issued a statement demanding the government to withdraw the bill. The bill, among other provisions, proposed up to Rs 1 million in fines for publishing content in violation of a media code of ethics.

Lawmakers of the ruling NCP also opposed the Guthi bill. Guthis are socioeconomic institutions that fund their obligations from incomes of cultivated or leased land as assets. Guthis fulfill religious public services and social roles, involving members from a common lineage, or several. It is an ancient social network. The operators of Guthis, rights activists, and even lawmakers opposed the bill, stating that it curtails people’s religious and cultural freedom in contravention of the cultural rights guaranteed by the constitution. They also accused the government of trying to nationalize all Guthis, both public and private, by bringing all religious sites under a powerful commission.

Likewise, the NHRC has taken exception to the bill, saying it shuts down regional offices instead of taking them into the federal structure, and affects the NHRC’s autonomy and independence. The bill has added a provision that allows the attorney general to file a case if the NHRC sends additional evidence after study. The NHRC has called this provision anti- constitutional, saying the provision has made the NHRC accountable to the Office of the Attorney General and not to parliament, which is against the constitution. Similarly, the IT bill also drew criticism from stakeholders as it is not in line with the spirit of the constitution that guarantees freedom of expression. Additionally, it conflicts with messages about Nepal being open for business opportunities and foreign investment, and it could stifle innovation in the country’s nascent but growing IT sector. The stakeholders say they were not consulted in the drafting process of the bill.

The Media Council bill and IT bill, particularly, go against the spirit of the constitution, which guarantees complete press freedom, and are related to freedom of expression. The Guthi bill is related to religious and cultural rights and freedom of association. Despite the increasing number of CSOs, civil society space is shrinking, and the protest against these bills was aimed at safeguarding the space.

According to Freedom Forum’s Annual Media Report released to mark World Press Freedom Day (May 3), the number of press freedom violations in Nepal has doubled compared to the previous year. From May 2018 to April 2019, 158 journalists have been directly impacted through 104 cases of press freedom violations, states the report. Representative of the year gone by, this quarter has witnessed the formulation and promotion of laws and policies (including draft laws) that contravene the basic principles of press freedom and freedom of expression, e.g., privacy law; growing intolerance toward journalists; increasing digital footprint vigilance of journalists; and the tendency to misuse media and journalists for political and commercial interests. As of April 2019, about 1,600 online media outlets were operating in Nepal, according to the Press Council of Nepal. This marks a significant growth in the number of media outlets and citizens using the Internet and social media platforms to reach out to audiences in enjoying their freedom of expression. However, the growing tendency toward digital vigilance can be seen as alarming.

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Earthquake-affected districts context: With an objective of providing a private housing grant to each earthquake-affected family, the National Reconstruction Authority (NRA) issued a notice June 17, 2019, requesting earthquake-affected people who have listed their names as a beneficiary for the grant but have not signed an agreement to sign it by July 6, 2019. The NRA further said that those who failed to sign the agreement by the deadline would be removed from the list of beneficiaries and, hence, would not be eligible for the housing grant.

The NRA has been reconstructing private houses, government buildings, public infrastructure and heritage sites, among others. As of this reporting period, the NRA has been supporting reconstruction work in 272 local governments in 32 earthquake-affected districts. According to the NRA, by June 2019, it had surveyed 996,582 households, of which 826,311 are eligible for housing grants. It had identified 61,891 beneficiaries for retrofitting their houses, and it signed agreements with 766,274 beneficiaries. By the end of June, a total of 761,513 beneficiaries received the first tranche of housing grant; 584,167 got the second installment, and 435,515 families received the third tranche of the grant.

Western districts context:

The delay in formulating new policies and laws at the federal level has impacted provincial and local government to make new policies and laws as provincial and local policies and laws should not contravene with federal ones. Civil society leaders in CS:MAP working districts have been facilitating the capacity building of elected representatives of provincial and local governments and holding dialogues and interactions with high-level government officials in order to ease the process.

Although formulating new policies and laws at the provincial and local levels has been delayed, civil society leaders and activists have used this period for engaging with elected representatives and government officials, paving the way for policy formulation. Given the power devolved to the local and provincial governments and their tendency to control media, the likelihood of civic space being constricted cannot be ruled out.

3. Progress Overview

The following outcomes were achieved as a result of CS:MAP activities during this reporting period:

Objective 1: Strengthened enabling environment for civil society and media

Result 1.1: Improved legal and policy framework, based on international standards, that leads to better operating environment and strengthened capacity for civil society

As a result of CS:MAP capacity-building efforts conducted in the last quarter, civil society and media organizations have started policy review like Right to Information (RTI) bill of Province 3 and Media Council Bill, as and when needed, based on constitutional principles and international standards. The major gaps found in the bills include broad, unclear, and vague provisions; and structure of and the representation on the proposed council seems like a branch of the Ministry; media council is not seen

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as an independent body. Suggestions for recommendations were: members of the council should be president of FNJ, a professor of journalism from a university, one senior journalist from each province, and three noted personalities with experience in human rights, gender, social inclusion, language, communication management, or research; journalists involved in violation of the media code should be asked to make a public apology; and “Publisher” from editorial responsibility should be excluded. These reviewed bills were shared with more than 200 stakeholders including politicians, parliamentarians, bureaucrats, journalists, CSO leaders, and other stakeholders via parliamentarians’ pigeonholes, podcast, emails, social media, print and electronic media platforms, and public events. Parliamentarians have agreed to consider these recommendations in their amendment proposals.

● Government and political leaders from the ruling party publicly committed to making the necessary changes in the Media Council bill and National Human Rights Commission bill as per the recommendations from media and civil society coalitions. Building on the strengths of CS:MAP support in previous quarters, the civil society and media coalitions were able to review bills and prepare recommendations effectively.

● Civil society coalition and local government associations jointly developed a common position regarding civil society related policy at the local government level. This includes civil society demands and recommendations with regard to civil society registration and operation. The major demands of the position are: there should be an environment in which CSOs can play a role in democratization in accordance with international instruments and practices along with the spirit of the constitution and OGP principle; the local level policy should ensure the representation of CSOs in policy, planning and oversight of public service delivery; CSOs should inform and coordinate with municipality and gaunpalika while expanding programs in their area; CSOs do not need to register to the inland tax office after duly paying the registration, renewal and other types of taxes to the concerned local government. In addition, the common position paper also recommended that district level federations and alliances should be registered at district coordination committee (DCC) in presidency of DCC chairperson; and local governments should have the policy to make expenses of certain budget of local government through CSOs.

● The Open Government Partnership (OGP) handbook has been published and disseminated among a broader group of stakeholders to promote understanding about OGP and foster citizen government partnership.

Result 1.2: Improved public understanding and confidence in the role of CSOs and media

● Civil society and media actors collaborated for joint advocacy to revise proposed provisions in the National Human Rights Commission bill and Media Council bill. This collaboration has also improved the relationship of the civil society and media sectors.

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● CS:MAP, in consultation with the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration (MOFAGA), has initiated a documentary film on civic engagement. A draft storyline has been developed and shared with stakeholders for feedback. The documentary will give an overview of the frameworks, tools and approaches for civic engagement in the formulation, implementation and monitoring and evaluation of the programs, policies and laws at local level. This will also present how civic engagement is inevitable in democracy to foster government and citizen collaboration and make government more accountable, effective and efficient. As institutions of citizens, civil society organizations (CSOs) represent citizens of different strata of the society, facilitate civic engagement and serve as a medium to ensure the basic rights of citizens through advocacy and lobby with the governments.

● CSOs, government officials, and business leaders including Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Industry and Supplies, representatives from National Business Initiative (NBI), Shivam Cement, Unilever Nepal, Sanima Bank, Sunrise Bank, Ncell, Utopia Nepal, Megha Bank , Janata Bank agreed to promote a corporate social responsibility (CSR) fund through civil society. Civil society, including NGO Federation, human rights organizations, media organizations, editors and experts, also agreed to use the CSR fund for advancing public interest in a transparent way. This accomplishment was made possible by a series of informal meetings of CS:MAP partners with the business sector and government, and an event to discuss the context of CSR and its leverage through civil society.

Result 1.3: Improved self-regulation of the sector and internal governance of CSOs and media

● Civil society coalition signed a MOU with AIN to strengthen the enabling environment for civil society and promote its internal governance and self-regulation. AIN has agreed to promote the civic charter and internal governance standards— developed by civil society coalition lead—through the civil society partners of its members.

● Twenty-six media groups from Sindhupalchowk, Kavre, Salyan, Kathmandu, and Bhaktapur applied the self-assessment toolkit and developed action plans for their institutional improvement.

● Twenty-one national-level society alliances and networks formed a team of experts led by the NFN deputy general secretary to work on internal governance, find a modality for implementation, and monitor implementation. The team has prepared 15 distinct indicators related to different domains of institutional governance and management including operational management, leadership development, human resource management, financial management, strategic planning, and GESI.

Application of strategic approach and relevance of critical assumption:

All three tiers of government in Nepal have continued the lawmaking process to fulfill their constitutionally mandated obligations. Provincial and local government laws should not contradict federal laws; it appears that all provinces and local governments are waiting for the

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federal laws to be enacted before finalizing their civil society and media-related laws and policies. Thus, CS:MAP focused its major technical support to develop and amend civil society and media-related federal laws in line with constitutional values and international standards. A series of dialogues were organized, policy briefs were prepared and shared, and technical support was provided to civil society for constructive advocacy. During the quarter, CS:MAP coalition leads NFN and FNJ collaborated to strengthen advocacy efforts for necessary improvements in the Media Council bill and National Human Rights Commission bill. Both organizations reached out to a broader group of civil society and media actors for sectoral ownership of issues raised. All CS:MAP national advocacy partners also worked in a coordinated way as members of coalitions. To strengthen the impact and legitimacy of its advocacy initiatives, CS:MAP partners worked with civil society influence champions from different sectors such as NPC members, parliamentarians, academicians, media leaders, and retired senior government officials. Civil society and media sectors have realized the need to improve the legitimacy and credibility of CSOs through enhanced internal governance and self-regulation. However, the heterogeneity of the sectors complicates the development and implementation of widely accepted internal governance and self-regulation mechanisms. The civil society coalition lead formed an expert committee to review the draft standard developed by the civil society coalition, consulted with a wider sector, and proposed a set of indicators that may be acceptable to most. NFN has been seeking alliances and networks for making the draft standard a uniform basic guideline and moral binding document for CSOs across the nation.

Anticipated challenges and CS:MAP mitigation measures:

The policymaking process has been observed to be unpredictable and confidential. Civil society and media actors did not have access to the process, and draft laws were not easily available. To mitigate this challenge, CS:MAP civil society and media coalition leads developed a common position regarding registration and operation of civil society and media organizations and shared it with different stakeholders, policymakers, and government officials. The common position paper was the basis for advocacy even if the draft laws were not available. In addition, CS:MAP team and partners organized a series of informal meetings with policymakers to understand the policymaking process and to make them aware of civil society concerns. As anticipated in the work plan, developing a widely accepted self-regulation and internal governance standard and incentivizing its implementation was a challenge. CS:MAP consulted with AIN to enforce self-regulation and internal governance standards among their partners so that it would be a motivation for CSOs to adopt the concept of self-regulation in order to receive funding from AIN members. With CS:MAP facilitation, civil society coalition lead NFN and AIN signed a MOU to undertake an effective intervention for improving the credibility and image of the civil society sector. This MOU aims to strengthen the enabling environment for civil society and promote its self-regulation and internal governance collaboration. In the new government structures, where and how civil society and citizens should be engaged in the democratic process, including public policy development, is confusing. CS:MAP, in collaboration with MOFAGA, has developed a resource book on civic

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engagement at the federal, provincial, and local level during public policy process, planning, and monitoring of public services. This resource book with be shared by MOFAGA with all local and provincial governments and used as a framework for civic engagement. Similarly, CS:MAP has supported MOFAGA in the development of a civic engagement guideline and documentary film. These resources will help institutionalize civic engagement at different levels in the changed context.

Objective 2: Improved civil society and media capacity for effective policy advocacy and government engagement

Result 2.1: Strengthened CSO initiatives to coordinate with the Government of Nepal (GON) and to implement constructive advocacy strategies

● Eight policies formulated in this quarter and seven others are under consultation with CS:MAP support. The policies are related to governance, veterinary services, quality education, health, and agriculture services. For example, Gorkha municipality, Gorkha; Triveni gaunpalika, Rolpa; Kapurkot gaunpalika, Salyan and Triveni gaunpalika, Rukum formulated governance policy, where as Ghorahi sub- metropolitan city formulated veterinary services policy and sickle cell anemia policy. Sarumarani gaunpalika, Pyuthan formulated policy related to DRR funds and Narayan Municipality, Dailekh finally formulated multi-stakeholder operational guidelines. CS:MAP is also working on agricultural policy for Suryabinayak and Chagunarayan municipality in Bhaktapur and Sanfebagar municipality and Bannegadi gaunpalika, Achham; health policy in Chattrakot gaunpalika, Gulmi and governance policy of Roshi gaunpalika and Panchkhaal municipality in Kavre. ● Sundar Nepal Sanstha in Dailekh and CSOs coalition in Dailekh jointly advocated to enforce meeting procedure guideline for multi stakeholder social accountability forum. This guideline is enforced, and municipality has also allocated 0.1 million rupees for this forum. IRDC Kapilvastu has submitted the draft public hearing guideline to Vijay Nagar municipality to enforce the guideline as soon as possible. Likewise, IRDS Arghakhanchi submitted social audit guideline for Panini gaunpalika which will be enforced in next quarter.

● A total of 340 out of 392 school buildings are constructed in Ramechhap as a result of advocacy efforts facilitated by CS:MAP partner. Other 25 are under construction. The stakeholders have declared 40 points to improve education in Manthali municipality and 24 points in Khadadevi gaunpalika, Ramechhap. Currently, the declaration is getting implemented by the concerned stakeholders, i.e. School, School Management Committee, Division Education Office and local governments.

● Local government in Dang allocated budget for sickle cell anemic citizens. Ghorahi sub-metropolitan city will conduct blood transfusion service program for people affected by sickle cell anemia and use a total of 1.5 million rupees to provide free blood, health checkup and awareness raising program; Tulsipur sub-metropolitan city allocated one million rupees for the treatment and awareness on sickle cell anemia and Province 5 advocated for free treatment, awareness raising and required machine for addressing this issue.

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● A total 10 Sajha Sabha meetings held in project districts provided platforms for disseminating good practices, achievements, and success stories from Common Assembly and Sajhedari Manch deliberations. Service providers from across the districts, legislators, civil society representatives, media, and citizens participated in the Sajha Sabha meetings and learned how CS:MAP-focus municipalities/gaunpalika have worked collaboratively to promote civic engagement, accountability, transparency measures, and so forth. Sajha Sabha meetings also served as platforms to link local issues/agenda with legislators for federal and provincial level attention, advocacy, and lobbying.

● The advocacy capacity of 14 CS:MAP CSO partners increased by 1.95 (baseline 0.87 to 2.85 ARI cumulative score). All 14 CSO partners stand ready with their individual ARI capacity building plans. With the increased capacity for advocacy, CS:MAP has received increased number of requests to support CSOs coalition in advocacy planning and implementation.

Result 2.2: Improved coalition-building between local and national CSOs, and between CSOs and the media leads to joint actions undertaken on selected policy priorities across sectors

● A total of 21 joint actions1 on public issues taken by CSOs and the media in this quarter led to the development of a new working culture in the respective districts. They have started to sit, discuss and formulate joint action plan for positive change in the society. CSOs and media organizations have formed a CSO network in all CS:MAP project districts. The joint actions helped to address the 13 policy issues as per the set advocacy cycle in this reporting period. Out of 13 resolved issues; 2 issues were related to education, 4 were related to governance. Likewise, 4 issues were related to health, 1 was about DRR and 2 issues were about agriculture. Likewise, it is reported that CSOs and media have mutual understanding on public issues and they have developed culture of collaboration.

● Following interactions in different districts, CSOs and media groups in the districts identified issues on which to take joint action in the policy formulation process. The joint actions were initiated in Kavre, Arghakhanchi, Palpa, Rolpa, Rukum, Salyan, Pyuthan, Gorkha, and Kathmandu. For example, SOCH Nepal conducted a strategic coalition-building meeting between CSOs and the media for initiating joint actions in Gorkha and Kathmandu. They discussed the inadequate allocation of the budget to the target groups, the lack of establishing a code of conduct affecting quality education in Kageshori Manahara municipality in Kathmandu, and the need for governance policy in Gorkha municipality. The group decided to send a memorandum to local government for the formulation of a governance act, and an application for a code of conduct to enhance the quality of education to education unit of Kageshori Manahara municipality. Coalition members finalized the code of conduct and planned to deliver it in the first week of July.

1 Fifteen joint actions were related to submission of memorandum on governance reform, policy formulation on HEAD, budget allocation on GESI, service delivery etc and six were on delegation to local authorities on policy issues and effective service delivery.

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● Thirty-six new issues2 were identified for advocacy by CS:MAP CSO partners. CS:MAP capacity building efforts helped them identify 20 issues related to formulation of policies and 16 related to enforcement of policies. The issues are related to health, education, agriculture, DRR, and governance.

Result 2.3: Improved CSO and media capacity to conduct participatory and evidence- based research on issues, policy, and enforcement to benefit marginalized groups

● Participatory evidence-based action research (PEAR) is one of the major sources for effective advocacy. A total of 86 PEAR reports have been submitted to date, 34 in the previous quarter. An additional 52 have been submitted by CARs/CSOs. The reports are credible tools for lobbying and advocating with local authorities. They cover the background of an issue, policy provisions, policy gaps, and scope of advocacy.

● In this quarter, 86 articles related to health, education, DRR, agriculture, and governance have been published in different online and print media. Partner CSOs are engaged in writing their cases through MeroReport and other media. They realized the importance of media mobilization and published materials, which can be used as evidence, for advocacy.

● Fifty-five journalists selected from the participants of advocacy, monitoring, and oversight (AMO) and investigative journalism (IJ) training from the previous years receive continuous mentoring support from CS:MAP partner EAI. At least 36 journalists wrote and published articles on public interest issues; HEAD areas; and policy gaps with a focus on issues related to marginalized groups. At least 52 of the articles were published in MeroReport while others were published in online and print media including Annapurna Post, Nagarik Daily, My Republica, Himal Khabar, and others. The link of the articles is mentioned in Annex 2. Linkage between the trained journalists and the CSOs is strengthened by ensuring joint efforts such as journalists participating in the CSOs’ activities and discussing common issue raised by both through their research.

Application of strategic approach and relevance of critical assumption:

CS:MAP provided different capacity-building sessions for intermediary service organizations (ISOs) and CSO partners on governance oversight and advocacy strategies and use of advocacy tools and techniques. The sessions, informal and organized in different clusters and districts, helped them refresh, review, and reflect on their understanding and learning from previous years. They have organized advocacy campaigns more effectively. This support strengthened local advocacy teams such as HEAD/CSO coalition in respective districts.

2 Formulate DRR and climate change resilient plan, fulfil teacher’s position in community school, formulate and enforce participatory monitoring guideline, formulate municipal level forest policy, seeds and seedlings distribution to farmers, formulate standard of stone mine and sand depo to control pollution, guideline for PWD’s friendly infrastructure, secure settlements of flood victims, allocate budget for targeted communities, ensure land rights (patta) of landholding people (Birtawala), formulation of governance policy, policy for animal slaughter houses and safe meat shop, implement health policies, sanitary pad to all girls studying in community school, establishment of Haatbazar, policy for road governance, identity card for all person with disabilities etc.

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CS:MAP assisted CSO partners in developing sample policies on HEAD and governance for the CSOs coalition to use as a sample during policy advocacy.

Anticipated challenges and CS:MAP mitigation measures: The participatory policymaking process was totally new to all local governments. They thought elected representatives were responsible to formulate, revise, and enforce laws and policies. CS:MAP provided continuous support to CSOs and local governments to understand the importance of a transparent, inclusive, and participatory policymaking process. The constructive engagement of CSOs was important in the collaboration with local governments in CS:MAP districts.

Evidence-based advocacy is a new practice to all advocacy partners. Generating evidence through PEAR reports was helpful but analyzing the evidence was a challenge. After intensive training and a refresher, CSOs are realizing the importance and use of PEAR in advocacy. Systematic advocacy efforts are helpful to all partners in effectively pushing their agenda forward.

CARs are responsible to conduct participatory evidence research on the identified issues, but their understanding and ability vary. Project coordinators/district coordinators are supporting them to collect, generate, and analyze evidence in respective districts.

Objective 3: More coordinated and effective civil society and media oversight of public resource use and public service delivery

Result 3.1: Improved capacity of local CSOs, media, and community-based organizations to monitor and report on cross-sectoral public service delivery, based on common standards applicable to each sector

● CS:MAP piloted the good governance barometer (GGB) in six gaunpalika of Sindhupalchowk, Gulmi, and Rukum districts. Implementation has had positive impacts and results at the local level. The health post at Triveni gaunpalika of Rukum district has improved the quality of its birthing center and taken initiative to make 35 types of free medicine available at all times in coordination with gaunpalika office. Kavre Pokhari Secondary School and Mahakali Secondary School in Gulmi district posted complaint redressal mechanisms and designated nodal officers. Mahendra Pratap Secondary School, Laligurans Secondary School, Siddhakali Secondary School, and two other schools in Sindhupalchowk district are using electric machines to check timely arrival and departure of teachers and staff. Similarly, they have started giving extra time and attention to low-performing students as agreed in the action plan. These schools are also conducting regular interactions with parents and students to get feedback on students’ achievements and the code of conduct for both teachers and students.

● CS:MAP expanded implementation of GGB in the health sector at Suddhodhan gaunpalika, Ward no. 1, Patariya, Kapilvastu. The GGB model was developed with technical support from an FHI 360 GGB expert and the CS:MAP governance advisor. Multi-stakeholder workshops at a health post in Suddhodhan gaunpalika were

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organized to develop the GGB model, collect data from the participants, and share findings with the community. A GGB action plan was drawn up this quarter. The technical committee will oversee implementation of the action plan and take stock of achievements.

● The use of MeroReport and number of posts increased. The blogs include 375 by CRs, 72 by CSO representatives, 59 by trained journalists, and four by CARs. The issues covered show growing public interest and concern about HEAD services delivery and GESI issues. The growth in the number and quality of blogs posted by CS:MAP stakeholders demonstrates a crucial rise in consistent monitoring and reporting on cross-sectorial public service delivery.

Result 3.2: Improved bottom-up coordination among community, district, and national formal and informal CSOs engaged in public service oversight ● The checklist/standards developed by FHI 360 in quarter 1 enabled the coalitions to conduct 20 public service oversights in these sectors during the reporting period (an overview of the findings is provided under Section 4.2 Activity 3.2.3).

● A total of 151 civil society champions as identified by CS:MAP partners in working districts are leading civil society interactions in the districts. This approach has been effective for engaging, sensitizing, and empowering civil society actors at the district level and strengthening collaboration and reinforcing the importance of civic space in democratic governance at the subnational level. A total of 26 civil society interactions moderated by local influencers (civil society champions such as academicians, lawyers, journalists, etc.) have educated local influencers on certain public interest issues and their role of “civic vigilance” in public oversight. These discussions also contributed to improving collaboration/partnerships between local governments and civil society (NGOs, CBOs, media, academicians, lawyers, private sector, etc.) by creating a forum for debate on common public interest and policy issues.

● Civil society and media collectively took 21 joint actions to follow up on issues discussed in the civil society interactions. These include submission of letters of memoranda and delegations and meetings with local governments. For example, civil society and media in Sindhupalchowk district discussed and advocated for delisting/providing a tax waiver to owners of the land used for expanding a rural road in Barhabise municipality. Due to the lack of delisting land ownership by the government authority, citizens are compelled to pay taxes for the land not used by them. A discussion in the HEAD coalition meeting resulted in the decision to join with media to further advocate on the issue. A similar issue was also raised in Kavre district. A joint meeting with media was organized to launch a collaborative effort to address “tax waiver of the land under the rural road site.” A memorandum was submitted to mayors of Panauti and Banepa municipalities to address these issues. Similarly, Development Exchange Center (DEC) Nepal with NGO Federation of Nepal and media representatives organized a meeting in Hetauda, Makwanpur, and prepared a memorandum to submit to the provincial government to ensure citizen participation in provincial and local-level policy formulation processes. They also

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submitted a similar letter to local governments demanding public participation in the local-level policymaking process.

Result 3.3: Improved citizen awareness and use of available GON social accountability mechanisms

● Fourteen orientations conducted by CS:MAP CSO partners for citizens and elected representatives at the gaunpalika/municipality level on the use of existing social accountability (SA) tools based on Public Hearing Guidelines–2067, Public Audit Guidelines–2067, Social Audit Guidelines–2067, Right to Information Act–2064, and Good Governance (Management and Operation) Act–2064 sensitized citizens and local elected representatives on the legal provisions of SA mechanisms and increased the number of local governments conducting public hearings. In the reporting period, 13 local governments conducted public hearings in project districts with support from CS:MAP partners.

● In this quarter, CS:MAP partners conducted eight PETS on distribution of scholarship funds in community schools—Samudayik Sarathi in Sindhupalchowk district, SOCH Nepal in Gorkha, DEC Nepal in Makwanpur, IHRICON in Bhaktapur, Sundar Nepal in Jajarkot and Surkhet, FMDC in Kailali. The findings showed protracted delay in distribution of scholarship amounts, funds were not distributed proportionately to entire eligible students, and the list of scholarship recipients was not posted on the notice boards. CSOs shared PETS findings with division chiefs of municipalities/gaunpalikas. ● In this quarter, CSOs conducted 12 CSCs in health posts. These CSCs served as platforms for service providers and citizens at the community level to identify gaps, explore constraints qualitatively, jointly discuss issues in public service delivery, and resolve them amicably through formulation of action plans. Sundar Nepal Sanstha implemented CSC in Bheriganga Health Post in Bheriganga municipality, Ramghat, Surkhet for the first time. CSC was used to improve accountability and public service delivery of the health post. Similarly, SOCH Nepal implemented CSC to Prapcha Health Post in Molung gaunpalika in Okhaldhunga. Findings showed lack of a separate room for family planning counseling and immunization, unfriendly behavior of the staff, lack of room for the village clinic, ineffective waste disposal system, lack of display of citizen charter in visible place, lack of stretchers for carrying patients, lack of awareness programs in schools, lack of women-friendly toilets, lack of training for female community health volunteers including no regular supply of water. A monitoring committee was formed to oversee implementation of the action plan which sets out actions, deadlines, and responsibilities to address these identified issues.

● Thirteen local governments in CS:MAP districts sought CSOs’ technical support in organizing public hearings. This request indicates increased collaboration between CS:MAP partners and local governments, and indicates local governments’ interest in conducting public hearings which serve as platforms for engagement between government and citizens. Issues discussed in these public hearings ranged from

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implementation of projects at the community level to public service delivery on health, education, agriculture, among others. These events were attended by representatives from local governments, media, civil society, academia, and citizens, among others.

Result 3.4: Improved citizen engagement in media and information and communications technology (ICT) tools to strengthen public participation and oversight

● During the reporting period, over 4,719 individuals participated in the SMS My Voice Campaign. The campaign helped youth understand and actively participate in the local-level planning process for budget advocacy and promoting anti-corruption through the use of SA tools such as RTI and public audits. The campaign—promoted through multiple ICT channels including Sajha Boli and SSMK radio series, their Facebook pages, and MeroReport—provided a platform for open discussion and sharing among local representatives, CSOs, and community members.

● As many as 202 photographs were submitted by 34 CRs depicting the status of public service delivery and resource use in their communities. To engage relevant stakeholders and concerned authorities and thus strengthen public participation and oversight, the photographs have been featured in MeroReport and on the Sajha Boli Facebook page.

● MeroReport had a significant level of citizen engagement this quarter, with over 23,306 page views. As of this quarter, the platform has 2,216 members, including 24 new ones, who engage in meaningful discussions on topics related to gaps and requirements within local-level public service delivery mechanisms, through a total of 519 blog posts.

Application of strategic approach and relevance of critical assumption:

As mentioned in the annual work plan, CS:MAP partners adopted a strategic approach to the collaborative and participatory method of using SA tools. The approach proved instrumental in gaining the confidence and support of local governments, and allayed their fears that these tools were meant to provoke people against them. Elected representatives of local governments were consulted during the process of issue selection and during different phases of implementing the SA tools, including GGB and PETS. This approach and the technical support of CS:MAP partners in organizing public hearings gained the confidence of local governments and helped the process move smoothly ahead. The second strategic approach outlined in the work plan was designing and implementing project activities through a consultative process. For instance, the development of checklist/indicators for public services oversight and orienting the HEAD/CSO coalitions on these checklists generated more confidence among coalition members in conducting advocacy on public interest issues and oversight of public service delivery. Increased frequency of HEAD/CSO coalition meetings and evidence generated by CARs helped them feel better equipped. Bringing up issues from common assembly meetings for discussion at HEAD coordination meetings supported linkage with the local level and helped bring local issues to district level attention for resolution collectively. CS:MAP local CSO partners and

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the support of ISOs at the local level helped the actors understand the value of collaboration. The citizen-government engagement mechanisms such as Common Assembly, Sajhedari Manch, and GGB workshops helped stakeholders own the process and welcome the use of SA tools.

Anticipated challenges and CS:MAP mitigation measures:

Local government representatives and stakeholders were consulted at the outset in selecting issues and were engaged in the process by CS:MAP partners to create ownership and promote government “buy in” of the process. CS:MAP repeatedly oriented its CSO partners to engage local governments in each step or phase while implementing SA tools. This idea proved effective in developing a common understanding that SA tools foster collaborative governance. CS:MAP anticipated that engaging HEAD coalitions in advocacy and oversight efforts at the district level could be a challenge since these CSO members have their own interests and priorities. CS:MAP increased the frequency of coordination meetings and consultations to meet this challenge. Collaboration was initiated at selection of an advocacy issue to collection of evidence through CARs and seeking concurrence from HEAD coalition members to use the evidence for advocacy and oversight activities collectively. CS:MAP partners’ support and collaboration at each and every step in identifying issues, developing action plans, and implementing plans helped in making advocacy efforts effective with buy in from CSO/HEAD coalitions.

Objective 4: Strengthen organizational capacity and sustainability of CSOs working in USAID priority sectors to advance local solutions

Result 4.1: Improved institutional governance of selected CSOs and media organizations

● The cumulative organizational capacity assessment (OCA) score of 14 CSO partners increased by 66.5 percent showing their improvement in institutional governance. The increment is based on the baseline established in 2017.

Result 4.2: Improved capacity of select CSOs and media organizations to mobilize social and financial resources for sustainability

● With support from CS:MAP ISOs, CSO partners stand ready with improved capacity to compete with other CSOs. In the reporting period, 10 CSOs prepared 17 project proposals (one to local government and 16 to international donors) and secured new funding for seven projects (two from local government and five from international nongovernmental organizations-INGOs). Result 4.3: Improved capacity of CSOs and media organizations to advance local solutions of priority development issues across sectors and to promote peer-learning opportunities

● CS:MAP provided an orientation on OCA tools and internal governance practices to non-CS:MAP partners in 14 CSO-based districts in previous quarters. Since OCA and ARI assessments of CS:MAP CSO partners were being conducted this quarter, ISOs will support 13 non-CS:MAP CSOs in the district to conduct OCAs in quarter 4.

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Application of strategic approach and relevance of critical assumption:

CS:MAP approach is building a stronger community of practice. As reported above, the CS:MAP ISO partners supported the third round of OCA assessments of 14 CSOs and will support preparation of institutional improvement plans (IIPs) for next year. The CS:MAP capacity-building team also provided on-the-spot facilitation support during the assessment of six CSOs, ensuring the quality and providing technical support as needed. The approach helped increase the capacity of new facilitators and ensured assessment as outlined in the tool. An IIP for next year was prepared in all 14 CSOs combining all the assessment gaps into the plan.

During the OCA assessments, domain and subdomains directly linked with indicators of minimum standards for internal governance helped synergize indicators with subdomains and ensure their progress. CS:MAP partner CSOs have received a request from other CSOs in the district to conduct their OCA assessments. ISO partners will facilitate OCAs of non-CS:MAP partners in quarter 4.

Anticipated challenges and CS:MAP mitigation measures: ISOs were busy with OCA and ARI assessments of CSOs this quarter and were unable to support non-CS:MAP CSO partners’ request to conduct their OCAs. This effort is being prioritized for quarter 4, FY19. Though minimum standards for internal governance are being rolled out in all CSOs, this needs to be institutionalized in CSOs. ISO partners will support CSOs to discuss the progress on minimum standards in each CSO with their board and increase the understanding of boards to institutionalize them. Limited coaching and mentoring visits to CSOs were made by ISO partners this quarter as they were mostly engaged in conducing OCA and ARI assessments in CSOs. To mediate this, ISO partners provided distance support to CSOs to achieve their remaining activities of IIP and ARI capacity building plan prepared in the second round of assessments. CSOs were able to achieve most of the remaining activities of both plans and become ready for the third round of assessments.

4. Activity Progress

4.1 Development and submission of deliverables

Narrative and financial reports:

Quarterly Progress Report #9 (January 1–March 31, 2019): CS:MAP submitted its second quarterly progress report for FY2019 to the USAID agreement officer’s representative (AOR) on April 30, 2019. The team received comments and suggestions for improvement on May 28, 2019; submitted the revised version June 11, 2019; and received approval from the AOR on June 12, 2019.

Financial reports for year 4: CS:MAP submitted the first quarterly financial report (SF 425) for year 4 on January 30, 2019; second quarterly financial report (SF 425) on April 29, 2019, and third quarterly financial report (SF 425) on July 29, 2019. Please refer to Annex 1.

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Short-term consultant reports, technical briefs/reports, special and external reports: CS:MAP has been coordinating with the AOR for direct briefing of consultants who travel and work for the project at the end of their visit to ensure direct communication regarding the focus of consultants and their findings. Suggestions and recommendations from the AOR have also been incorporated into the deliverables.

Monthly calendar and updates: On the final day of each month, CS:MAP provided the AOR with a calendar for the upcoming month. In the same submission, CS:MAP shared updates on the previous month’s activities.

Development Experience Clearinghouse (DEC) submission: CS:MAP uploaded 25 documents, reports, and knowledge products to the USAID DEC (see https://dec.usaid.gov/dec/home/Default.aspx).

4.2 Progress achieved toward project objectives

Objective 1: Strengthened enabling environment for civil society and media

Result 1.1: Improved legal and policy framework, based on international standards, that leads to better operating environment and strengthened capacity for civil society

Activity 1.1.1: Implement advocacy action plans on regulatory reform issues on CSOs and media.

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Building on FY2017 activities involving regulatory framework assessments and Civil Society Recommendations for Media Council Bill stakeholder consultations that informed advocacy Amendment

action planning, CS:MAP and its partners Appoint a retired justice of the Supreme Court as head of the undertook the following advocacy efforts to proposed Media Council. improve the enabling environment for CSOs and media: Include two lawmakers from the lower house and one from the upper house recommended by the speaker of house and representatives and chairperson of the National Assembly Activity 1.1.1.1: Law and policy review (NA), respectively, as members of the council. The lawmaking process is going on Recommend the following as members of the council: rapidly throughout the nation at all three president of FNJ, a professor of journalism from a university, tiers of government. Thus, whenever the one senior journalist from each province, three journalists government agencies draft laws and elected by FNJ, and three noted personalities with experience in human rights, gender, social inclusion, language, policies related to freedom of expression communication management, or research. and association CS:MAP partners have reviewed them on an ongoing basis. This Name the chair of concern subject committee in parliament to lead the recommendation committee for the formation of spontaneous policy review based on the council. constitutional values and international standards has been made possible by Propose one senior journalist nominated by the ministry and CS:MAP’s regular technical support and chief of the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication of TU as other members. capacity-building trainings. Journalists involved in violation of the media code will be CS:MAP partner Freedom Forum asked to make a public apology or face blacklisting or publishing of his/her name instead of a stiff penalty. reviewed the Media Council bill and shared it with lawmakers of both the Exclude “Publisher” from editorial responsibility.

ruling and opposition parties, ministry Revoke the provisions related to government directions to officials, and other stakeholders on May the council. 23, 2019. Some clauses of the bill tabled on May 10 by the federal government Incorporate and incite self-regulation provisions in the bill for guiding all media houses. restrict freedom of expression and conflict with rights guaranteed by the constitution of Nepal. The proposed bill consists of broad, unclear, and vague provisions related to specific definitions. Self- regulation, which is the major guideline and strength of the National Mass Communication Policy, is not incorporated at all. Furthermore, the structure of and the representation on the proposed council seems another platform of government which is quite objectionable and against the rationale and requirements of such an

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agency. The odd procedures and responsibilities prescribed in the bill contradict constitutional and international standards. Freedom Forum has suggested 20 points for amendment in 15 sections of the bill in consultation with the media institution, editors, journalists, and civil society activists.

Similarly, Freedom Forum reviewed the Right to Information (RTI) bill of Province 3 and compiled the various portions of the bill that contradict constitutional Reviewed Policies Shared provision and international practices. Freedom Forum produced policy briefs for each bill and shared them with provincial lawmakers, bureaucrats, and civil society leaders to raise their Parliamentarian awareness and emphasize the necessity 28 9 37 Journalist for policy advocacy to ensure constitutional rights. Freedom Forum 98 47 Civil Society Leader submitted the reviewed bill to State Political Leader Assembly members and stakeholders on 67 April 4, 2019. Bureaucrats Others Activity 1.1.1.2: Disseminating/sharing the policy review CS:MAP shared the reviewed bills with politicians, parliamentarians, bureaucrats, journalists, CSO leaders,

and other stakeholders via Figure 1. Audiences receiving reviews of proposed bills parliamentarian’s pigeonholes, podcast, emails, social media, print and electronic media platforms, and public events. During this quarter, CS:MAP’s partners convened eight events at the national and subnational level and disseminated hard copies of the policy briefs and reviews to 286 participants and an additional 184 individuals via email. This initiative has provided evidence and facts to civil society and media actors regarding the improvements needed on these bills and initiated a discourse on the importance of stakeholders’ engagement in the public policymaking process.

CS:MAP international partner ICNL undertook a legal review of Nepal’s draft Information Technology Act-2075 (2018) in April 2019 to examine its effect on freedom of expression and right to privacy. The analysis identified that the Act criminalizes certain types of speech based on vague language; lacks clarity regarding what constitutes a “social network”; calls for establishment of specialized courts in every province in Nepal; and has no provision for judicial oversight or time limits on surveillance activities. This analysis has been used by CS:MAP partner Freedom Forum for advocacy to improve the draft. Freedom Forum submitted proposed amendments and a policy brief on the Media Council bill to influential lawmakers from ruling and opposition parties in both upper and lower houses of parliament, ministry officials, and other concerned stakeholders on May 23, 2019. Eighty-five

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hard copies were sent to stakeholders, including 25 to concerned parliamentarians. It was also shared with 150 stakeholders through a podcast and with 120 by mail. Similarly, Freedom Forum shared the right to information (RTI) bill of Province 3 to concerned stakeholders including provincial lawmakers on April 4, 2019, and informed them about gaps in the bill and the threat it posed to freedom of association (FOA) and freedom of expression (FOE). Freedom Forum submitted the policy briefs to provincial lawmakers and members of the state assembly and organized a stakeholder discussion on April 24, 2019. Thirty-five hard copies of the reviewed bill were shared with stakeholders and lawmakers. It was sent to 64 persons via mail.

GoGo Foundation organized a dialogue between federal parliamentarians and civil society leaders on May 21, 2019, to discuss proposed amendments to the National Human Rights Commission Act, Media Council bill, and social organization bill tabled by the Federal Legislative Parliament. Experts presented papers on federations, civil society, and institutions; issues related to Article 17 of the constitution; CSO freedom and mobilization; and the regulatory perspective as well as the importance of civic participation in public affairs and the role of lawmakers. Participants raised concern on the regulatory provisions of the bills and echoed the importance of civic engagement in the public policy formulation process. Lawmakers in the government expressed their commitment to protect freedoms of association and expression as provisioned in the constitution while opposition lawmakers committed to raising the issue in parliament and supporting CSOs at every platform to ensure press freedom and free civic movement.

Prominent speakers included Parliament members Min Bishwakarma, Jitendra Narayan Dev, Yogesh Bhattarai, Badri Pandey, and Prakash Rasaili; Secretary of Nepal Law Commission Chiranjivi Khanal; President of NGO Federation of Nepal Jit Ram Lama; and President of Federation of Nepali Journalists Govinda Acharya. The 65 participants (seven female) included media representatives, civil society activists, human rights defenders, and academicians. FNJ organized four events to discuss provisions of the Media Council bill and proposed amendments to the Human Rights Commission Act on May 12, May 21, May 25, May 28, and June 11, 2019. The 106 participants (26 female) included editors of leading media houses, members of the Human Rights Commission, political leaders, parliamentarians, and CSO leaders. They raised concerns about press freedom, which could be suppressed by the tabled bill. Activity 1.1.2: Policy dialogue and discussion with and among CSOs, media, political parties, government, and parliament

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Activity 1.1.2.1: Dialogue and discussion on laws and policy related to CSOs and media CS:MAP convened six dialogue and discussion programs this quarter focused on laws and policies related to CSOs and media with concerned stakeholders including policymakers, bureaucrats, politicians, media, and CSO activists. The participants discussed various clauses of the bills and developed a common position for further lobby and advocacy.

Freedom Forum organized a policy stakeholders’ discussion on the right to information (RTI) bill for Province 3 on April 24, 2019, in Kathmandu to make stakeholders aware of the positive and negative provisions of the bill, the constitutional guarantee of RTI, and international standards relating to FOA and FOE. Former Secretary of the National Information Commission (NIC) Shree Ram Panta explained that the reason and purpose should not be made mandatory for filing a RTI and emphasized the provision of punishment in the proposed law. Participants expressed their concern for easy access to information, including the mode and method of seeking information using information technology (IT). The provincial lawmakers said that if the law is passed without necessary changes, it could be disastrous for democracy. Prominent speakers included provincial assembly members Ramesh Paudyal, Rajendra Man Shrestha, Radha Ghale, Jeeban Dangol, and Bijaya KC, and Freedom Forum executive director Tara Nath Dahal. A total of 37 participants (10 women) attended the discussion.

Freedom Forum also organized a stakeholder discussion on the IT bill on June 30, 2019, in Kathmandu with members of the Development and Technology Committee of the House of Representatives (HOR), Legislation Management Committee of the National Assembly (NA), other members of parliament, lawyers, and concerned stakeholders to develop a common understanding about conflicting issues and define a strategy and way forward on the bill. Speakers expressed concern about the regulatory provisions and ambiguity of the clauses. Pushpa Bhusal, Ram B Bista, Minakshi Jha, Rangamati Shahi, Surendra Pandey, Brijesh Chandra Lal, Anita Devkota, Badri Pandey, and Prakash Pant were prominent participants along with journalists, business persons, IT experts, and civil society leaders. IT stakeholders Computer Association of Nepal (CAN) and Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), Internet Society expressed commitment to put pressure on government to reform the regressive provisions. Twenty-seven participants (eight female) attended.

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NGO Federation of Nepal (NFN) in collaboration with Jagaran media organized a joint dialogue with CSOs on Social Organization bill 2075 on June 14, 2019, in Kathmandu. Dr. Padma Prasad Khatiwada, General Secretary of the Human Rights Alliance, highlighted the concern of all CSOs regarding the act and urged for a common position to use in lobbying the government. Participants discussed their perspective that the role of CSOs is under scrutiny and misunderstood by government. Jit Ram Lama, NFN President, concluded the meeting with a commitment to collaborate with all stakeholders on the issue and produce amendment to the draft bill to concerned officials. The 80 participants (17 female) represented NGOs, INGOs, federations, and the CSO coalition. Activity 1.1.2.2: Interactions with political parties regarding civil society engagement CS:MAP organized three interactions with political leaders and parliamentarians on the shrinking space of civil society, the proposed bills governing civil society, and concerns regarding threats to FOA and FOE as provisioned in the constitution and the international instruments that Nepal has ratified. These interactions helped orient political party leaders about the need and importance of civil society engagement in the policymaking process. After these dialogues, political parties and provincial agencies consulted with CSOs regarding the lawmaking process.

GoGo Foundation convened a provincial level dialogue to discuss CSOs’ challenges and contribution to nation building on April 22, 2019, in Butwal, Province 5. The event was organized to bring CSO representatives and provincial ministers, members of assembly, and local leaders to not only discuss the issues, problems, and challenges of CSOs in the changed political spectrum but also to explore solutions. Fifty-four participants (22 female) attended. Social Development Minister Sudarshan Baral, chief guest, said he will continue his efforts in facilitation between government and civil society. On the other hand, the capacity of CSOs must also be strengthened to institutionalize the democracy earned after years of struggle. He assured that the laws will be CSO friendly thus ensuring a legal enabling environment for them. Other prominent participants included provincial assembly members Nirmala Chettri, Deepak BK, Jalpa Bhusal, and Kamala BK.

Civil society champions urged the government to respect the Paris Principles while amending the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Act–2012 during an interaction program organized by the Informal Sector Service Center (INSEC) on May 14, 2019. INSEC brought the CSOs and human rights activists together to find a

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common voice and position on the proposed amendments and inform the concerned parliamentary committee of their concern.

At the event, Krishna Bhakta Pokharel, chair of the Law Justice and Human Rights Committee of the Federal Parliament, said the committee would ensure constitutional provisions and international principles of human rights in the amended bill provided it was forwarded to the committee. He further committed to play a vital role in safeguarding the NHRC’s existing administrative capability and scope. NHRC representatives mentioned the 17 recommended points that the government has ignored and government’s attempt in confining the administrative structure and referral role for judicial process. Similarly, the CSOs questioned the lawmaking process and the contents of the policies. The 42 participants (14 female) included NHRC representatives, FNJ, NFN, and senior human rights activists namely; Charan Prasai, Sobhakhar Budhathoki, Ganesh Nepali, and Anjana Shakya.

DEC Nepal, NFN, and CSOs jointly organized a consultation meeting in Hetauda on May 23, 2019 and drafted a memorandum for the provincial government to ensure civic engagement in the policy formulation process. They also submitted a memorandum to Shalikram Jamakattel, Minister for Internal Affairs and Law of Province 3, highlighting the importance of meaningful public participation in the policy formulation process and associated benefits to both the citizens and state. It includes the concern of FOA and FOE in line with the constitutional provisions and international instruments that ensure civic engagement in the public policy formulation process. Minister Jamarkattel acknowledged the importance of civic engagement after receiving the memorandum and pledged to share it with the provincial cabinet and all 119 local governments of Province 3.

Activity 1.1.3: Support to local governments to develop and implement civil society and media- related laws

The civil society coalition lead prepared a common position statement regarding civil society related policy at the local government level. This position paper, developed in consultation with civil society networks and local government associations, includes the civil society demands and recommendations with regard to civil society registration and operation at the local level. Local government associations have agreed to share the position paper with all local governments and ask them to consider these in the policymaking process.

In addition, INSEC organized three workshops on “Coordination among CSOs and Local Government in the Present Context” on April 28, May 26, and June 20 in Kavre, Dolakha, and Makwanpur, respectively. The purpose was to boost coordination between local government and CSOs and identify the areas of support and facilitation to local government by CSOs. Participants agreed to enhance collaboration to strengthen the impact of local government. CSOs agreed to support local government in developing CSO and media-related policies and awareness building among communities. A total of 98 participants (37 female) attended the three workshops. (Details on this capacity building are mentioned in Section 4.2 Activity 1.1.7.)

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Activity 1.1.4: Promotion of Open Government Partnership (OGP) concept at national and subnational level

CS:MAP provided ongoing support to local governments to develop and implement OGP standards to foster civil society and government collaboration to promote open, transparent, and accountable government activities. OGP handbook, a guiding document and resource, has been widely disseminated by CS:MAP to local governments and civil society organizations.

Neelakantha municipality, Dhading, organized a stakeholders meeting on April 9, 2019, and formed a 20-member OGP Steering Committee for the municipality led by Mayor Bhim Prasad Dhungana to implement OGP principles and its working modality. The municipality implemented OGP on October 4, 2018, the first in Nepal to do so. The committee is comprised of CSO leaders, and representatives from FNJ, FNCCCI, consumer groups, and women groups. The committee will develop an action plan to render the municipality more open, transparent, accountable, and effective functioning. Before this, CS:MAP facilitated the participation of Mayor Dhungana and Chief Administrative Officer Jagan Nath Pant at the 5th OGP Summit held in Tbilisi, Georgia, July 17–19, 2018.

Similarly, Rural Women Development Center (RWDC) conducted an interaction program on OGP with elected representatives of 10 local governments of Dang along with civil society and media leaders on May 31, 2019, with an objective of promoting public participation, transparency, accountability of local governments, and collaboration among the government, private sector, and civil society. The discussion focused on the concept, objective, and importance of OGP and priority of local governments. The participants urged local governments to adopt SA tools and engage civil society in the public policy formulation process. The participants also raised the issues of governance, service delivery, and civic engagement. Mayors and chairs of the local governments committed to adopting the OGP concept and its principles in the days to come. A total of 50 participants attended.

Community Development Center (CDC) Nepal organized an interaction program on OGP on June 19, 2019 in Nuwakot with the objective of enhancing the common understanding of CSOs and local governments on its principles and working modality. Participants, including elected representatives of local governments and civil society leaders of Nuwakot, pledged to explore the possibility of developing and implementing OGP. The legal and policy advisor of CS:MAP presented a paper on the OGP working modality at the local government level. He shared examples of how OGP is being practiced by local governments in other countries and in Nepal, citing Neelakantha municipality of Dhading and Nepalgunj sub-metropolitan city of Banke.

Local government representatives shared their experiences on working to ensure citizen engagement at the local level. Santa Man Tamang, Coordinator of District Coordination Committee, Nuwakot; Tara Rimal, Vice Chair of Tarekeshwor gaunpalika, and Dron Pokharel, Chief District Officer of Nuwakot suggested that local governments should ensure public participation in budget making, planning, and decision making in Nuwakot district.

Activity 1.1.5: Improving electoral laws and policies

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CS:MAP organized a meeting with newly appointed Chief Election Commissioner Dinesh Kumar Thapaliya to share recommendations regarding the electoral legal framework improvement identified by CS:MAP implementing partner National Election Observation Committee (NEOC) through a comprehensive assessment last fiscal year. The report highlights the major area of reforms to strengthen the credible electoral regime in the country. Mr. Thapaliya agreed to consider these recommendations in the policies and guidelines of the Election Commission. Activity 1.1.6: Civil society and media coalition meetings

CS:MAP organized five civil society organization and media coalitions to boost joint efforts and advocacy for the cause of protecting and promoting citizens’ rights amid the rising concern of shrinking civic space.

Samjhauta Nepal and Media Advocacy Group (MAG) convened a meeting between CSOs and media on April 24, 2019, in Lalitpur to discuss opportunities and benefits for a joint effort in the cause for FOA and FOE. Nepal Law Society Executive Director Krishna Man Pradhan emphasized the watchdog role of CSOs to promote citizens’ engagement in policymaking and safeguarding fundamental rights. He stressed the importance of CSO’s self-regulatory mechanism and internal governance. Barakhari Chief Editor Prateek Pradhan spoke about the role CSOs and the media played during various people’s movements in favor of democracy. Other prominent speakers urged CSOs and the RECOMMENDATIONS FOR ELECTORAL PROCESS IMPROVEMENT media to revisit their roles and collaborate for collective action to achieve larger goals such as . There is a need to make the vote counting process scientific, transparent, easy and coordinated. promoting best practices of local . ECN should leave no stone unturned to ensure full enforcement of the bodies and the participation of election code of conducts. The ECN should also work towards maintaining the voter list with accuracy and maintain high level of public confidence in women and marginalized the list’s integrity. communities in politics. . No one should be excluded from the voting. . Election dates should be decided by the Election Commission which is a constitutionally sovereign body on election regime. One journalist commented on the . Any activities or budgetary allocation under the name of development that affects election and that is contrary to the Code of Conduct should be growing trend of journalists prohibited. acting as press advisors to local . There must not be obstruction on freedom of movement during election campaigns. governments which has interfered . The Election Commission needs to be well-prepared with necessary legal, with their duty to scrutinize financial and other management resources in advance. . Appropriate arrangements should be installed at the polling centers for government policies and actions. women, senior citizens, and people with disabilities. Pinky Gurung, a transgender . The political parties must stop revenging voters, supporters and activists when they are defeated thereby exhibiting democratic practice and culture of activist, emphasized ensuring that tolerance. the voice of sexual minorities is . The political parties, their candidates and independent candidates in election campaign must not exceed the expenditure limits as fixed in the law and must heard as they have no comply with punitive action if actual expenditure is not submitted. representation in the government. . The political parties should promote internal democracy, inclusive character She emphasized the need for and maintain transparency and accountability. CSOs and media to work together to improve public trust and safeguard civic space. The 50 attendees included representatives from Madhesi, Muslim, sexual minorities, CSOs, and the media.

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NFN and FNJ organized a dialogue with civil society leaders and media to discuss the proposed amendments to the National Human Rights Commission Act - 2012, the Media Council bill, and the Social Organization bill on May 15, 2019, in Kathmandu. The objective was to provide an update on the context of the civil society enabling environment, build shared positions on the proposed bills along with strategic planning on how to address the issues and engage with various stakeholders.

Murari Prasad Kharel, Director of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC); Bipul Pokharel, Vice President of FNJ; and Padma Prasad Khatiwada, General Secretary of Human Rights Alliance drew attention to the major flaws in the bills through individual presentations. Gopal Lamsal, immediate Past President, NFN; Pinky Gurung, Chair of Blue Diamond Society; Naren Khatiwada, Chair of Youth Alliance Network; Ganesh B.K, Advisor to NFN; Gopal Krishna Siwakoti, President of International Institute for Human Rights, Environment and Development (INHURED International); and Kedar Khadka, Executive Director of GoGo Foundation expressed their solidarity for joint advocacy of media and CSOs to face the issues collectively.

Jit Ram Lama, President of NFN, urged CSOs and media to stand together on ensuring the fundamental rights of freedoms of association and expression. The attendees unanimously agreed to fight against the proposed bills from their respective fronts. The 101 participants (23 female) represented federations, alliances, and networks of media and civil society.

INSEC organized three workshops with CSOs and media on April 22, May 26, and June 11, 2019 in Lalitpur, Makwanpur, and Ramechhap, respectively, in collaboration with CS:MAP local partners, district CSO leaders, and media representatives. The purpose was to share the importance of CSO and media collaboration for impact on advocacy for civic issues. Participants agreed and noted that collaboration strengthened the accountability of local government and development agencies. They also called for further interactions to boost the relationship between CSOs and the media. Overall, 92 participants (32 female) including journalists, CSO leaders, and academicians attended.

Activity 1.1.7: Capacity-building training

In quarter 3, civil society and media coalition leads organized two capacity-building workshops on FOA and FOE to capacitate civil society and media leaders on international legal standards and principles as a basis for policy advocacy. As part of applying that skill, the trained attendees participated in two policy reviews and shared the tools and knowledge with 16 federal parliamentarians; 36 provincial parliamentarians of Sudurpaschim, Karnali, and Province 3; and 14 local governments. The participants reported that the training built their confidence in advocacy for improving local, provincial, and federal laws related to FOA and FOE. Moreover, the executive committees of FNJ and NFN said it has strengthened collaboration between civil society and the media sector as the basic values of those freedoms are interlinked. As a result, civil society and media initiated joint advocacy for improving the National Human Rights Commission bill and Media Council bill.

In addition, INSEC organized a capacity-building workshop on “Promoting Accountability and Professionalism of Nepali Civil Society Organizations” for civil society activists in Kathmandu on June 20-21, 2019. The objective was to boost the understanding and

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knowledge of youth activists on CSO governing legal and policy issues, instruments, and contexts. Participants were sensitized on tools and instruments to strengthen internal governance of the organizations.

Participants learned that policy formation, implementation and evaluation, a mechanism for handling grievances, resource management, communication, and integrity are the major issues of internal governance. The participants also agreed that sharing the information further within CSOs would promote transparency and accountability. A total of 36 participants (16 women) attended the event. Saathi, a participant organization, requested INSEC to build their capacity at the institutional level.

Activity 1.1.8: Regular technical assistance on policy work

CS:MAP technical assistance in this quarter was focused on reviewing laws/drafts laws and policies and producing policy briefs on these documents, which were later converted into amendment proposals in the committees and parliament at the provincial and federal levels. CS:MAP provided support to INSEC to review the Human Rights Commission bill, which covered the role and independence of National Human Rights Institutions (NHRI) based on the Paris Principles. The draft bills undermine the existing status of the NHRC; this observation was shared with the chair of the Parliamentary Committee for Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, NHRC, and other major stakeholders. The brief helped them understand international standards, principles, and values which was useful for discussion in different forums, such as committees and parliament, and for advocating for independent National Human Rights Institutions. CS:MAP engaged with Freedom Forum and provided technical assistance to review the right to information (RTI) bill of Province 3 and IT bill proposed by the federal government. ICNL reviewed the IT bill and shared key findings with national advocacy partners which helped them, particularly Freedom Forum, to write a policy brief to share with members of parliament and concerned stakeholders. The review mainly covered freedom of expression on the Internet. Freedom Forum engaged with parliamentarians associated with different committees, which helped them understand the bill and prepare an amendment proposal that was later registered in the parliamentary process, particularly in the committee discussion. Further, Freedom Forum organized an event on June 30, 2019, with members of the Technology and Development Committee of the House of Representatives and Legislative Management Committee of the National Assembly to help them understand different terminologies and potential misuse of the provisions that will be useful to them in defending the amendment proposal before the full house of parliament. Freedom Forum also provided technical assistance to provincial parliamentarians to identify problematic provisions of the RTI draft bill that conflict with the constitution and international standards and draft an amendment proposal for the parliament of Province 3. Result 1.2: Improved public understanding and confidence in the role of CSOs and media

Activity 1.2.1: Use of new media for promoting civil society

In the extended phase of the Public Outreach Campaign (POC), new media have been used to strengthen and promote the role of civil society.

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Activity 1.2.1.1: New media workshop

As a result of the New Media workshops organized in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj, participants have an increased understanding of civil society, and more social issues have been reported through new media. CS:MAP has been carrying out a perception survey of civil society and media in Nepal focusing on the 34 districts in which it is implemented. Extrapolating from the findings, CS:MAP will organize more of these workshops in the coming year. Informed by the ground reality, the workshops are expected to be more effective. Activity 1.2.1.2: Social media campaign

The POC aimed at enhancing the understanding of civil society and media through social media continues albeit has slowed down as partnership with Interface Nepal ended mid-April 2019. People have been visiting the #MaNagarikSamaj and #MaKhandina Facebook pages and responding to the content. Despite the end of contract, Interface Nepal has been making an effort to reach a larger audience through TV programs. Tough Talk, a popular TV show that mainly focuses on contemporary social issues, has raised the issue of social accountability in its episodes. Activity 1.2.2: Local fair: Get to know your CSOs

The fairs have directly benefitted 950 local citizens. The impact is being tracked and will be presented in subsequent reports.

Activity 1.2.3: Study on civil society contribution CS:MAP signed an 11-month agreement (effective June 15, 2019) with Martin Chautari (MC) to carry out a study on the contribution of civil society in Nepal. In the last two weeks of June, MC consulted civil society leaders and intellectuals for suggestions on possible themes as part of the initial canvassing as mentioned in the project proposal. MC also selected researchers and asked them to submit research concepts. A group of 17 selected researchers submitted concept notes for respective studies. Further, MC organized a meeting of the researchers to present their ideas among other researchers, the research director, and CS:MAP team. In this quarter, researchers presented 15 research concepts, and each received feedback. This was also part of canvassing to identify the scope and appropriate methodologies for the research. Researchers were asked to submit their revised abstracts by July 13, 2019. Further development will be reported in subsequent quarters. Activity 1.2.4: Training and technical support for public interest reporting

In previous quarters, CS:MAP partners FNJ and Freedom Forum organized trainings for journalists on public interest reporting. The training focused on reporting that empowers citizens to understand how their government works to provide services that affect their daily livelihoods, and their capacity to hold public officials accountable for the delivery of the same. During this quarter, 17 trained journalists were awarded fellowships to showcase diverse voices in the media, contributing to an improved representation of all groups in

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Nepal, including marginalized ones, leading to an improvement in public perception of the media. FNJ has assigned a group of experts to provide ongoing editorial mentorship throughout the fellowship duration. The trained journalists have been writing investigative and analytical stories, which will be finalized and published next quarter.

Activity 1.2.5: Proactive civil society initiatives to resolve social issues

In this quarter, about 57 local governments allocated a budget for targeted communities. Before the budget formulation process, CSO partners organized trainings and advocacy campaigns among Common Assemblies (CAs), listening, discussion, and action groups (LDAGs), the CSO coalition, and non-CS MAP partners in 34 districts. The trainings/campaigns focused on a seven-step planning process and the role of community organizations in advocating for the budget for targeted communities. CSO partners have reported that local governments have formulated policy and allocated the budget to marginalized people including women, youth people with disabilities (PWDs), indigenous peoples, Dalits, etc. CS:MAP partners collaborated with other CSOs in the districts and pressured local government through delegation, one-to-one meetings, submission of memoranda, and development and submission of a citizen’s budget. This campaign was focused on allocating the budget for marginalized people. As a result, the local government of 34 districts committed to allocating a budget for targeted communities. Some of them have already developed policy and allocated 8–10 percent of the budget to women, children, PWDs, Dalits, and senior citizens.

Another proactive initiative of CSOs was related to free treatment of patients with sickle cell anemia. This campaign, focused on free lifelong treatment for sickle-cell patients in Western Tarai districts in the previous quarter, continued this quarter. All CSO partners of respective districts collected evidence on the issues and developed messages used during their advocacy campaign. The campaign launched in Dang, Banke, Bardiya, Kailali, and Kanchanpur districts and brought CSOs, media, local government, and province government (Province 5) together to enforce the policy to support sickle cell anemia patients. In addition, LDAG members participated in the local-level planning process and succeeded in having the program included in their budget and policies. Shree Janchetana LDAG of Dang supported fire victims at Sirukharcha and Maale in Ghorahi sub-metropolitan city Ward no. 1. LDAGs also provided school uniform, vessels, and food from their monthly snack cost.

Civil society initiatives in other districts resulted in: fixing lights/bulbs in the streets; expansion of electricity lines in new settlements; effective waste management system in local units; increased number (around 70 percent of CA members) of citizens engaged in local- level planning and asking for a budget to promote accountability; effective distribution of agricultural products/seeds; ensuring participation of children, disabled, and elderly in the planning process; increased discussion among stakeholders to improve schools; increased number of public hearings; budget allocated for construction of a health post; installation of citizen charters in all wards of Gorkha municipality and Shahid Lakhan gaunpalika; formulation of governance policy and agriculture policy, etc.

Activity 1.2.6: Organize interactions to promote understanding of the role of CSOs

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Civil society plays an important role in strengthening democracy and institutionalizing federalism. Similarly, civil society is expected to represent public interests and facilitate civic engagement in different spheres of government. Governments, political parties, and other stakeholders should also realize the value of civil society since it encourages accountable, transparent public institutions that are responsive to public demands. To promote the understanding of stakeholders on the role of civil society, CS:MAP partners organized interactions in 26 districts in collaboration with district chapters of national advocacy partners, media, and civil society champions. Themes discussed included public policymaking process, local planning process, civic engagement, public service delivery, internal governance, and CSOs and media collaboration. The total of 966 participants (379 female) included representation from NFN, FNJ, CSO leaders, elected leaders, academia, lawyers, professors, and students.

Figure 2. Events to discuss the role of civil society organizations

At the close of these events, action points are identified to promote the role of civil society in public policy, local planning, oversight of public service delivery and resource use, strengthening governance, and promoting gender and social inclusion. CS:MAP partners will follow up on these action points and review progress at the next interactions. Please refer to Activity 3.2.5 for other details on this.

Activity 1.2.7: Media and civil society collaboration to advance public interest

Please refer to Activity 1.1.6 for the details on civil society and media collaboration at the federal level to advance public interest. Also refer to the details reported under Results 2.1 and 2.2 for the collaboration works at the sub-national level.

Activity 1.2.8: Assessment of public perception about media and CSOs

Foundation for Development Management (FDM) was selected in the last quarter to conduct a public perception survey about CSOs and the media. FDM completed field work and is in the process of reviewing a final draft report. The survey will gauze the percentage changes in public understanding of the role of CSOs and media; and public confidence in the role of

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CSOs and media; and GON stakeholder satisfaction with CSO and media self-regulation. Results will be compared with the baseline values set in FY 2017. The final survey report will be shared in the subsequent report.

Activity 1.2.9: Video production on citizen engagement and role of civil society

Through a competitive process, CS:MAP selected Shubha Media Home Pvt. Ltd to produce a documentary film on civic engagement in quarter 2 and signed an agreement effective April 11, 2019. Shubha Media organized an inception meeting with MOFAGA, USAID, civil society experts, and CS:MAP to agree on concepts, modalities, and contents. A draft story line was developed and shared with stakeholders. Further, a story clinic was organized in Kathmandu with producer, director, writer, experts, and representatives from CS:MAP and USAID to finalize the storyline and generate ideas for the screenplay and dialogue. Based on the clinic, Shubha Media submitted a draft story line for a 90-minute documentary with three episodes. The draft dialogue includes messages, information, humor, and sentiment to engage the audience. Furthermore, the film conveys a conceptual understanding of civic engagement, its importance in democracy, and the important role of citizens, civil society, and local governments in its promotion. The production will be finalized next quarter and widely disseminated. Activity 1.2.10: Finalization, dissemination, and adaption of civil society internal governance standards and media self-assessment toolkit

Improving the internal governance of civil society and media organizations is an ongoing process; its development and implementation is important for wider ownership of these sectors. In the previous quarter, civil society coalition developed a minimum standard of internal governance for CSOs in consultation with major civil society and media federations, government agencies, local government associations, and AIN. This standard was shared with more than 3,500 CSOs with a request for comments. A team of experts, led by NFN Deputy General Secretary, has prepared a compiled document incorporating all feedback and organized a consultation with 21 national level civil society alliances and networks. Consultation meeting attendees agreed to prepare 15 distinct indicators related to different domains of institutional governance and management that include operational management, leadership development, human resource management, financial management, strategic planning, and GESI. NFN will seek ownership from other CSO federations, alliances, and networks for making it a uniform basic guideline and moral binding document for all.

Result 1.3: Improved self-regulation of the sector and internal governance of CSOs and media

Activity 1.3.1: Implement minimum standards of CSO internal governance and self- regulation

In quarter 2, the civil society coalition lead developed minimum standards for internal governance and self-regulation and shared them with more than 3,500 CSOs. A committee was formed to monitor implementation. As part of monitoring, the committee reviewed implementation in Gandaki provincial capital and Mustang district on May 2019. During the review discussion, the committee noted that the developed standards are very relevant and

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should be made available to non-member NGOs as well. It was also suggested that civil society should form a monitoring mechanism at the provincial and district levels so these standards will be properly implemented, and civil society credibility will be enhanced. In addition, civil society coalition and AIN signed a MOU May 29, 2019, to begin an intervention for improving the credibility and image of the civil society sector. Jitram Lama, President of NFN, and Joel Hafvenstein, Acting Chairperson of AIN, signed the MOU on behalf of the CSO coalition and AIN, respectively. Apart from creating a civil society enabling environment and embracing the values and principles of civic space, the coalition agreed to work together to develop and practice a self- regulation mechanism and have regular public discourse and dialogue for promoting image and value of civil society. Prior to this, CS:MAP organized and coordinated a series of meetings between CSO coalition lead, NGO federation, and AIN to provide a basis for collaboration for strengthening civil society’s enabling environment and credibility. As a member of AIN Policy Group, CS:MAP has supported AIN on policy improvement for civil society.

Activity 1.3.2: Prepare sample internal governance guidelines and circulate among CSOs

The sample internal governance guidelines were prepared in the previous quarter as reported. Further development will be reported in subsequent quarters.

Activity 1.3.3: Develop and implement civic charter for civil society sector as a means of self- regulation

The civic charter was developed and shared in consultation with a wider group of CSOs in the previous quarter as a common value document for civil society self-regulation and principles. Civil society coalition has signed a MOU with AIN to strengthen the civil society enabling environment and promote civil society internal governance and self-regulation. AIN has also agreed to promote the charter within through the civil society partners of its members. During the quarter, NFN translated the charter into English and shared it with AIN and other international agencies.

Activity 1.3.4: Rollout of self-assessment toolkit and development of action plans

FNJ has been organizing events at the national and subnational levels to roll out the self- assessment toolkit among media organizations affiliated with its central and district chapters. In quarter 3, FNJ organized five events in Sindhupalchowk, Kavre, Salyan, Kathmandu, and Bhaktapur to sensitize media houses on the self-assessment toolkit and support them in their internal assessment process and development of an action plan. Eighty-two media actors from 26 media organizations participated. FNJ will also provide periodic monitoring to assess how well these organizations adhere to their action plans.

Objective 2: Improved civil society and media capacity for effective policy advocacy and government engagement

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Result 2.1: Strengthened CSO initiatives to coordinate with the GON and to implement constructive advocacy strategies

Activity 2.1.1: Strengthen advocacy and government engagement capacity of 14 district- based CSOs and media organizations

Activity 2.1.1.1: Continue coaching ISOs in providing advocacy and government engagement capacity building to partner with CSOs and media organizations

The CS:MAP team (EAI, governance advisor, advocacy advisor, capacity-building manager, and capacity-building officer) supported ISOs in strengthening their capacity in advocacy and government engagement so they can effectively coach and mentor partner CSOs. CS:MAP also worked on prioritizing joint visits to the districts to provide maximum technical support on the ground. CS:MAP ISO partners provided on-the-spot institutional governance coaching support and assessed the OCA and ARI of 14 CSO partners in this quarter. CS:MAP also conducted quarterly meetings with ISOs to review the status of their support to CSOs and equip new ISO staff to deliver comprehensive capacity-building support to CSOs on advocacy and government engagement. In addition, to ensure the quality of support and ISOs team mobilization, CS:MAP team conducted monthly Skype meetings with ISOs and provided guidance on their mobilization plans. This support enabled ISOs to provide need-based support to CSOs and enabled CSOs to identify new advocacy issues in the district and implement their existing advocacy plans.

Activity 2.1.1.2: ISOs design and implement advocacy and government engagement coaching and training based on CSO and media organizations’ needs

After the assessments, ISO partners Nepal National Social Welfare Association (NNSWA) and Nepal Participatory Action Network (NEPAN) conducted coaching and mentoring visits to CSOs to implement advocacy plans, submit memoranda, prepare PEAR reports, design questionnaires for evidence-based research of new advocacy issues, review public service oversight checklist, and promote SA tools in Gorkha, Okhaldhunga, Banke, Bardiya, Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Lalitpur districts. NNSWA supported the groups to conduct a social audit of FMDC in Kailali and PETS and community score card in Banke district. In total 17 days were spent by ISOs in the seven above program districts.

Activity 2.1.1.3: Conduct refresher training/orientation or review meeting with selected ISOs on usage of Advocacy Readiness Index (ARI)

Three ISOs conducted the third round of the ARI assessment of 14 CSO partners in May and June 2019. In accordance with the findings, the ISOs supported the groups to prepare and adjust the ARI capacity-building plan for next year. Capacity was measured in 13 advocacy domains on a scale from 0 to 5, where 5 indicates very good advocacy capacity. The advocacy capacity of CSOs grew by 1.95 percent compared to the baseline (0.87 percent) established in 2017.

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Advocacy vision and 1.69 Mission 3.08 5.0 Advocacy Plan and Sustainability Strategies 3.00 1.84 4.0 Funding for Building 3.0 Advocacy Initiative Constituencies 2.1 1.8 3.48 1.12.0 2.66 1.4 1.8 Leadership/ Board 1.0 Coalition Building commitment 2.1 2.3 and Linkages 0.0 3.16 2.85 1.5 1.6 Monitoring Advocacy Government 2.4 1.6 2.2 Messaging policies 2.2

Engaging 3.63 2.95 Research Government and Decision Makers Outreach and Advocacy Avenue Media 2.94 2.68 ARI score 2017 (baseline) ARI Score 2018 ARI Score 2019

Figure 3. Comparative ARI score 2017–2019

CS:MAP capacity-building team backstopped each ISO to ensure the quality of assessment, mentored new ISO staff in assessments, and facilitated the process. Figure 3 presents the advocacy capacity of 14 CSOs measured through the third round of ARI assessments with the baseline established in 2017.

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Activity 2.1.2: Strengthen ISO capacity on budget monitoring

CS:MAP supported ISOs and CSO partners on budget advocacy and monitoring in this quarter. The orientation provided by ISOs and CSOs to the local stakeholders focused on the budget and planning process of subnational government. The orientation sessions helped local stakeholders engage in the budget formulation process in their own settlement and ward level. This increased the participation of women, youth, Dalits, janajatis, and other marginalized people and resulted in budget allocation to marginalized communities in CS:MAP-focused local units. For example, Manahari gaunpalika of Makwanpur made a sectoral plan and budget to targeted communities and approved it for FY2019. This policy was formulated after the intense advocacy of LDAG and CSOs coalition of Manahari gaunpalika.

Activity 2.1.3: Form Sajhedari Manch (partnership forums) and Common Assemblies (CAs) and conduct Sajhedari Manch and CA meetings

A total of 31 Sajhedari Manch meetings took place this quarter during which citizens and service providers deliberated on service delivery issues in health, education, agriculture, DRR, among others. A total of 139 issues were discussed. Analysis of the data shows 38 (27 percent) were related to health, 33 (24 percent) to education, 19 (14 percent) to agriculture, 9 (6 percent) to DDR, and the remaining 40 (29 percent) were categorized as others. Of 139 issues raised and discussed, 59 (42 percent) issues were resolved/addressed. Similarly, a total of 68 CA meetings made deliberations on 376 issues related to public service delivery and public resource use in education, health, agriculture, and DDR. Of the issues, 96 (26 percent) were related to health, 89 (24 percent) to education, 84 (22 percent) to agriculture, 40 (11 percent) to DDR, and 67 (17 percent) were categorized as other. This disaggregated figure of issues deliberated indicates problems in delivery of health services as most prominent, followed by agriculture. The number of issues addressed/resolved is 164 (44 percent). The major issues discussed in CAs:

Health Education - lack of laboratory service in health post - lack of library in community school - effective implementation of gaunghar (village) - dropout students’ problem clinic - develop code of conduct for quality - minimizing use of plastics education - identifying dumping site for waste management - merge the primary-secondary schools - lack of awareness on sickle cell anemia and conduct quality education. - separate toilet for girls and sanitary pads - facilitate to form School Management - regular meeting of health management Committee community - address the issue of insufficient teachers - health checkup of students in school in school - demand budget for health at ward level - lack of toilet for girls and boys, lack of - demand ambulance and stretcher separate toilet for staff - provision of first aid treatment and medicine - improve the quality and quantity of government school

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- lack of safe waste management system in health - government students’ discipline issue post; i.e., bandage, plastic covers, medicines, - lack of regular meeting with School cotton, injections, etc. Management Committee - lack of coordination meeting with local - lack of regular extracurricular activities government for health-related planning and in schools budgeting - lack of manpower as per need in public health center - lack of full service of family planning except condoms, pills, and Norplant - lack of community-based health awareness program, girls, adult, and elderly health related - poor sanitation in toilet and school areas Agriculture DRR - lack of information about subsidy in agriculture - compensation from the damage done by - risk of cement factories that create pollution wild animals in buffer zone - improve irrigation canal - management of disaster fund in ward - demand at least 5% budget in agriculture in level ward and municipal level - request for deadline extension to build - establish collection center and to organize the houses affected by earthquake through agricultural exhibition district coordination committee - disseminate information effectively to targeted - need to attract the decision-makers on the population late construction of community school - allocate budget for irrigation - awareness program for fire control - access on seeds and agricultural program/training - issue of victim of wind and thunder - field visit by agriculture technician lack of - budget for gabion wire for flood control awareness on agricultural business - prevention of disaster risk reduction - management of agriculture bazaar - reconstruction of school damaged by - access on agriculture insurance earthquake - access on seeds distribution - seasonal seed and facilities of soil test - lack of hybrid maize seeds. - professional agricultural system development

Governance Other -formulation of governance policies - assets disclosure of locally elected non-uniform market price representatives -active participation of CA members as well as - role of CSOs in planning process local people at local-level planning process. -prevention of child labor - stray dog controlling - issue of market sanitation - lack of safe waste management system - information board in schools - sanitary pad and disposal management of pads in community schools

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Sajhedari Manch held in western districts discussed the need for developing a local curriculum for school-level education and decided to forward the agenda to the upcoming municipal council meeting. Sajhedari Manch members agreed on the importance of a local curriculum to preserve the local tradition of far western region. The constitution of Nepal allows the local government to develop and use a local curriculum with the weightage of 100 marks at school level and the municipality. Other issues discussed included such budget allocation for regular health checkups of students in community schools and finalizing the governance policy of the municipality.

Activity 2.1.4: Conduct Sajha Sabhas or Public Forum

A total of 10 Sajha Sabha meetings held in project districts during the reporting period were used for disseminating good practices, achievements, and success stories from CA and Sajhedari Manch meetings. Service providers from across the districts, legislators, civil society representatives, media, and citizens participated and learned how CS:MAP-focused municipalities/gaunpalika have worked collaboratively to promote civic engagement, accountability, transparency measures, among others. Issues discussed in Sajha Sabha were free medicine in district hospital, reduce child labor, formulation of agriculture policies, sewage management, proactive disclosure of public agencies, issues related to land tenure, revenue management and use of local resource, crop and livestock insurance, regular health checkups in community school, sufficient budget for irrigation, first-aid treatment and medicine, etc.

Activity 2.1.5: Coaching and mentoring to CA, PPWG/Sajhedari Manch, and Sajha Sabha facilitators

CS:MAP team and ISO partners provided coaching and mentoring support to CSO partners and the coalition for the effective use of advocacy tools and techniques, advocacy planning, constructive engagement with government, and the policymaking process. CS:MAP team also helped CSOs organize Sajhedari Manch, Sajha Sabha, and CA meetings effectively.

Result 2.2: Improved coalition building between local and national CSOs and between CSOs and the media that leads to joint actions undertaken on selected policy priorities across sectors

Activity 2.2.1: Strengthen coalitions and networks to undertake joint advocacy actions on policy priorities across sectors

A total of 21 district-level coalition meetings and 26 civil society interactions brought action to strengthen public services delivery and resources use in coordination with local government. The coalition meetings focused on issues relating to public services in health, education, agriculture, DRR, and other areas. Following the discussions, HEAD coalitions in project districts submitted memoranda, convened meetings with authorities, filed request letters, and initiated joint actions for advocacy in the districts. Some examples of joint actions and issues discussed in HEAD meetings are:

- Civic engagement in policymaking process at local level - Oversight in public services

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- Citizen participation in planning process - Budget allocation to marginalized communities - Formulation of governance policies at local level - Proactive disclosure on a quarterly basis - Address/resolve issues related to sickle cell anemia - People-centric health services in health centers - Formation of consumer community to monitor market - Seed and fertilizer subsidy to farmers - Regular market monitoring by concerned stakeholders - Development of local curriculum

Activity 2.2.2: Support Shreejanshil Shakhas (innovation hubs) to serve as CSO-media collaboration hubs

Shreejanshil Shakhas (innovation hubs) were handed over to host organizations as outlined in the annual work plan. CS:MAP local CSO partners will continue monitoring the use of those hubs and even use the hub as a common platform.

Result 2.3: Improved CSO and media capacity to conduct participatory and evidence- based research on issues, policy, and enforcement in order to benefit marginalized groups

Activity 2.3.1: Media review of parliamentary activities

The review was done last quarter. CS:MAP is using the recommendations in its advocacy approach. Using the suggested champions in the parliamentary committees, CS:MAP advocacy partners engaged with them for advocacy work done at the federal level.

Activity 2.3.2: Build research capacity for CSOs and media organizations

CS:MAP partner EAI worked in close coordination with other members of the CS:MAP team and ISOs to assess the status of CARs and ensure continual support to the CSOs on PEAR activities. Coordination was facilitated between the CSO district coordinators (DCs) and CARs, especially. CSOs have identified 113 issues for advocacy, among which at least 75 percent are backed by evidence collected by CARs utilizing PEAR techniques. For instance, CARs in Dang and Kailali districts collected information on sickle cell anemia patients which served as important evidence for advocating for free treatment. Similarly, a CAR in Ramechhap district supported advocacy efforts on ensuring quality education in community schools through evidence gathered from observation and data collection in schools. The CARs have also worked in collaboration with the DCs to share news about these advocacy efforts on MeroReport. At least four reports written by CARs from Banke and Pyuthan districts have been published in MeroReport this quarter. These reports were about public oversight in community schools for quality education and the local-level planning process. More CARs will be encouraged to publish their reports on MeroReport and other platforms in the upcoming quarter. EAI will continue collaboration with the FHI 360 team and ISOs to ensure continual support to the CSOs and CARs in undertaking PEAR to support public interest advocacy.

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Activity 2.3.3: Organize study visit for media partners in Kathmandu for investigative journalism

The study visit was organized last quarter and reported accordingly. The development is being tracked and will be reported in the subsequent report.

Additional activities to enhance the capacity of media at national and subnational levels on advocacy, oversight, and monitoring:

Activity 2.3.4: Mentoring and coaching for trained journalists of the Advocacy and Monitoring/Oversight (AMO) training

CS:MAP partner EAI has provided regular technical assistance to 25 selected journalists since January 2019. Seventeen of them have contributed stories about advocacy and monitoring oversight on MeroReport, and in national and subnational print and online media on a regular basis. EAI ensured that the stories were balanced and took into account multiple views, had a strong central message supported with evidence, and remained contextual to CS:MAP objectives and themes. EAI shared priority advocacy issues identified by CSOs for possible joint advocacy efforts and actions and provided continual reminders on the need to incorporate and address issues and concerns of women and minority groups, linking to policy gaps and inequitable legal provisions. As required, EAI guided the journalists to policy and legal documents and texts and edited their stories for coherence and clarity. According to EAI’s story tracker, 11 journalists published 48 advocacy articles on MeroReport. The other six posted 36 articles via print and online media. These 84 articles examined the status of public service delivery and need for reform in health, education, agriculture, DRR, gender and social inclusion, local infrastructure development, local level planning process (LLPP), budget planning and allocation, and local development priorities. They focused on gaps in practice and policy, identifying areas for reform and advocating for their implementation. EAI instructed contributing journalists to follow up with public service providers and service seekers and maintain records to track progress or impact resulting from their stories. EAI maintains records of story publication dates, issues addressed, and resulting action, if any. AMO trainees published stories in Annapurna Post, AP1 Television, Nagarik, MyRepublica, and Swasthya Khabarpatrika. They highlighted civic participation as a priority, especially of people with disabilities, women, Dalits, and other marginalized communities. AP1 national television carried an audiovisual report prepared by an AMO journalist trained by CS:MAP describing how elected Ward representatives in Baitadi district had struggled to provide essential public services in the absence of public officials. There are growing instances of journalists trained by EAI having their stories run on television channels as well. Please click on the link below to access the AP1 report by Bhagirath Awasthi. https://www.facebook.com/ap1tv/videos/363936017809522/UzpfSTE2NTc3NjMwMDM6MTAyMTY1Mjk0NTMyMjI5ODQ/

Activity 2.3.5: Mentoring and coaching for investigative journalism (IJ)-trained journalists and media professionals This quarter, CS:MAP provided technical support to 30 journalists selected from among 85 trained on investigative journalism (IJ) techniques and reporting methods in CS:MAP FY

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2017 and 2018. Of these, 23 journalists published 17 investigative pieces in print and online media, and 11 articles on MeroReport. EAI provided them with comprehensive support in the selection of themes and topics; in-depth data collection, verification, and quality assurance; ensuring balance through the presentation of multiple opinions and points of view; and provision of information related to the legal and policy situation. EAI encouraged them to conduct investigative reporting focused on the issues of women and marginalized groups and their access to health, education, agriculture, and disaster risk reduction. Mentoring support was provided to IJ trainees through discussions on draft stories they submitted. The final stories published in print and online media and MeroReport were shared for visibility and broader consumption on the MeroReport Facebook page. EAI conducted a rapid assessment of the stories submitted, which revealed a lack of clarity and skills related to angling (angle from which a story is presented); data accuracy and adequacy; and legal and policy analysis. EAI made telephone calls, engaged in Facebook chat groups, and sent emails to provide mentoring support to the IJ cohort. Journalists who attended the “study and exposure visit on investigative journalism” in quarter 2 and were awarded fellowships to write investigative pieces began writing and publishing this quarter. They published seven evidence-based articles on women’s health, girls’ education, agriculture, and post-earthquake DRR in national and subnational print media outlets. Two of these stories written and published by Prabir Dadel (a fellow from Rukum district) explored how community schools had been collecting fees from students, breaching existing legal provisions; and how schools had been utilizing funds meant as scholarships for girl students for teachers’ salaries. The first story highlighted how the collection of fees at community schools was illegal, pursuant to the Compulsory and Free Education Act–2075; and the second story highlighted gross misuse of funds by school authorities, preventing deserving girl students from receiving scholarships intended for them. Dadel’s stories were published in local publications—the Rekhdekh weekly (see screenshot to the right) and Abhiyan—and in the national Himalkhabar on April 29 and May 29. Following the Himalkhabar coverage, the Mushikot municipality issued a circular to related schools announcing monitoring visits to verify whether fees were collected illegally. Following this circular, the Tribhuwan Janata Higher Secondary School decided to return all fees collected from students; other community schools followed suit. Dadel wrote about the impact of his earlier story in the Rekhdekh weekly on May14. This news was also published on July 3 by the national daily Naya Patrika (https://www.nayapatrikadaily.com/news-details/18551/2019-07- 1?fbclid=IwAR0mVct4HMrLn1W048TRl9Q-korRdSLlSaeDjPWoahL489pNlKTMSvTsl8Y). Following publication of the second story, the Jana Bikash School management committee made the head teacher and accountant return misused amounts to provide for scholarships to Dalit girl students (see screenshot below).

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An IJ fellow from Surkhet district, Jagatdal Janala B.K., published a story on poor maternity health care in Karnali province in the Swasthya Khabar Patrika. His story was shared 8,100 times from his Facebook page (see screenshot to the right).

Activity 2.3.6: Public interest reporting training and fellowship

Please refer to Activity 1.2.4 for details on this.

Objective 3: More coordinated and effective civil society and media oversight of public resource use and public service delivery

Result 3.1: Improved capacity of local CSOs, media, and community-based organizations to monitor and report on cross-sectoral public service delivery, based on common standards applicable to each sector

Activity 3.1.1: Conduct second round of GGB in six gaunpalika and one new gaunpalika in Kapilvastu

A second round of the GGB will be organized in six gaunpalika in Q4 of FY 2019. CS:MAP has selected Suddhodhan gaunpalika, Patariya,Ward no.1, Kapilvastu, for expanding the GGB. Data validation and action plan workshops were organized in Kapilvastu, with technical support from FHI 360. The workshops were actively attended by citizens, the Ward chair, the health post in-charge, assistant health workers, and local politicians, among others. These multi-stakeholder workshops at the health post in Suddhodhan gaunpalika served as a forum to validate GGB findings and formulate the GGB action plan during the quarter.

Activity 3.1.2: Organize GGB Technical Monitoring Committee meetings

The GGB Technical Monitoring Committee held seven meetings in this reporting quarter. The technical committees in the respective gaunpalika have been following up on GGB action plans, deadlines, and responsibilities assigned to the concerned stakeholders. Quarterly meetings of technical committees have been helpful in this regard, making it easier to monitor implementation of the action plans.

Activity 3.1.3: Conduct research to generate evidence for advocacy

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CSOs have mobilized community action researchers (CARs) to generate evidence on advocacy issues. Evidence has been collected on a total of 85 advocacy issues, including 32 issues from the last fiscal year. Among these, 39% are related to effective implementation of policies, and 61% are related to the formulation of policies. Issues pertain to health, education, agriculture, DRR, and governance/GESI. A greater number of issues are related to health and governance/GESI than to agriculture and DRR.

Activity 3.1.4: Utilize online collaboration platform (MeroReport) to monitor and report on crosscutting issues.

MeroReport has been serving as a platform for experience and resource sharing, learning, monitoring, and reporting on cross-sectoral issues and local solutions. The platform has provided an extensive range of information and resources related to CS:MAP cross-sectoral priorities, the radio episodes, newsletters, and public service announcements. This reporting period saw increased utilization of MeroReport as a common space for reporting on CS:MAP activities. Out of 519 blogs posted on MeroReport this quarter, 375 were posted by CRs, 72 by CSO representatives, 59 by the trained journalists (AMO & IJ), four by CARs, and nine by other members. As in previous quarters, CRs continued to remain the most significant contributors. Since the last quarter, MeroReport 375 has received blog contributions on 334 citizen engagement in policy and budget advocacy for target populations; health advocacy (sickle-cell anemia); the use of SA 95 91 72 48 tools like right to information, public 26 hearings, citizen scorecard, and good 11 13 4 5 9 governance barometer; and open CR CSO IJ AMO CAR Others government partnership efforts. Y4Q2 Y4Q3

Figure 4. Number of blogs posted in Year 4, quarters 2 and 3 Additionally, information about various CS:MAP activities and structures were shared on MeroReport. These have included Sajhedari Manch and LDAGs; impact stories related to reform in health, education, agriculture, and DRR policies and practices; GESI; local community development; and good governance, among others (see figure 5).

The number of MeroReport blog posts per thematic area has increased as a result of the monthly blog competition initiated by EAI. The quality of content in terms of in-depth investigation and evidence seeking has also increased. Competitions during the quarter focused on the following themes: April–LLPP; May– Education; and June–Health. There were 58 entries to the competition, compared to 53 the previous quarter.

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Since October 2018, MeroReport has been conducting fortnightly discussions among bloggers on CS:MAP-related topics. Seven discussions were held this quarter. Four dealt, respectively, with DRR; media and CSOs; policies, laws, and rules; and open government partnership. The other three dealt with Health 62 queries raised by participants of the SMS Education 53 My Voice campaign. The April discussion Agriculture 43 Disaster 26 focused on disaster preparedness and GESI 54 management in light of the recent havoc Youth 16 SA 13 LLPP 54 Other 198

Figure 5. Thematic categorization of blogs on MeroReport (n=519) caused by rain and thunderstorms in Bara and Parsa districts of southern Nepal (see box). Respondents opined that local governments should formulate laws and build durable public infrastructures that can withstand

Every year, there is a huge loss of lives and property caused by natural disasters. This is because we are not prepared to deal with such events when they occur. We respond only after such events occur and do not give it thought at other times. No concrete initiatives are taken for utilizing technology for disaster preparedness and management. The recent storm in Bara and Parsa districts led to loss of so many lives and caused damage to property worth millions of rupees. In this context, what kind of preparedness initiatives should the government and civil society take up to minimize loss of lives and property?

disasters. They suggested that local governments should develop robust disaster preparedness and response plans and coordinate with concerned stakeholders for timely implementation— limiting harm to human lives, livestock, and physical property. Although interactivity on the discussion forum is increasing, it is still low in comparison to the number of blogs posted. Membership in the 12 thematic groups has increased from 359 to 376 in the last quarter.

Activity 3.1.5: Support Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) in IT- friendly complaint-handling mechanism

With the adoption of mobile APP, CIAA has started on atomization of all CIAA related activities using ICT. CS:MAP supported mobile APP for filing anti-corruption cases, sensitized CIAA and encouraged for using ICT in promoting anti-corruption campaign. To aware citizens about the ani-corruption institutions and guide them on the mechanism of filing the case, SOCH Nepal has produced a draft “Handbook on Anti-corruption Bodies in

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Nepal”. This guidebook will help citizens on the role of anticorruption bodies and the way they can file the case including the use of mobile APP.

Result 3.2: Improved bottom-up coordination between community, district, and national formal and informal CSOs engaged in public service oversight

Activity 3.2.1: Strengthen coalitions and networks for public service oversight by conducting orientation to HEAD coalition/network on common standards/checklist for public service oversight

FHI 360, in consultation with subject matter experts and officials from various ministries and departments, finalized checklist/standards for public service oversight. In the first round, checklist/standards for health and education were finalized with feedback from USAID and circulated among CSO partners. Existing legislation, regulations, guidelines, and policies have been considered to develop these indicators/standards. A total of 12 orientations for HEAD/CSO coalitions on checklist/indicators for health and education were organized in this reporting period.

Activity 3.2.2: Organize coordination meetings of the HEAD coalition for oversight

With secretarial support from CS:MAP partners, HEAD/CSO coalitions organized 33 coordination meetings in the districts for advocacy and oversight functions. The meeting participants discussed advocacy issues and action plans to draw the relevant agencies’ attention to the public interest agenda. CSO/HEAD coalitions organized meetings, short interactions, and delegations with the concerned agencies to share the evidence. Similarly, CSO/HEAD coalitions have submitted request letters, memoranda, and position papers to draw the attention of municipality/gaunpalika to advocacy issues, and they conducted joint visits to resolve advocacy issues. Similarly, HEAD/CSOs’ coordination meetings were helpful in selecting community schools and health posts for carrying out oversight activities. The meeting participants came to consensus on which HEAD coalition members should participate in the oversight process. The process generated feelings of ownership. Activity 3.2.3: Conduct public service oversight through the HEAD/CSO coalition

CSO/HEAD coalitions conducted 20 public service oversights in health and education in this reporting quarter. Of these, nine were conducted in health posts and 10 in community schools. CSOs found that the majority of health posts provided only a few of the required 35 free medicines and most did not have full staff and were operating with inadequate infrastructure (such as buildings) and equipment. They also did not have separate rooms for treating communicable diseases, lacked structures accessible to the disabled, and lacked privacy in treating female patients. Health posts opened late in the morning and closed earlier than 2 p.m. Health posts did not have specific awareness-building programs for women, the elderly, the disabled, Dalits, and other marginalized communities and groups. Oversight activities carried out by HEAD coalitions in the ten community schools found that most did not have seating arrangements organized by age; parents’/teachers’ meetings were not regular; textbooks were not distributed on time; distribution of scholarships was not transparent; information such as the list of scholarship recipients was not posted on the notice

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board; a complaint box was not kept in schools; and schools did not have a system for supplying sanitary pads for menstruating students.

HEAD coalition in Kavre District carried out oversight of public services being provided by a health post in the Roshi gaunpalika. Using the checklist of indicators, the coalition monitored Mangaltar health post and interacted with staff, beneficiaries, and members of the management committee. The coalition team found that waste produced by the health post was not properly managed; citizens did not have easy access to the health post because it was located in a remote area; medicines were limited; only one ambulance was available; and the ambulance fare was high. The CSO coalition handed over a report to Laxmi Gartaula, Vice Chair of Roshi gaunpalika. HEAD coalition in Nuwakot carried out oversight of Deurali primary health center of Myagang gaunpalika. Thirty different indicators were used to check services being provided. The team shared major findings with the Myagang gaunpalika. Issues included lack of clean drinking water; irregular management committee meetings; no separate section for treating communicable diseases; Gaunghar clinic not conducted on regular basis; no information disclosure; and no medical waste management.

HEAD in Dhading District carried out oversight of two community schools in Manahari gaunpalika. The team observed the teaching–learning situation and interacted with service providers and provided feedback. The oversight focused on interaction between students and teachers, participation of child club in school activities, frequency of SMC and PTA meetings, social audit, child-friendly infrastructure, and water supply, among others. The team identified the following key issues needing improvement: poor quality of potable drinking water; lack of sanitary pads available to menstruating students; need for transparency and visibility of learning achievements of the students; high drop out of students; and poor teaching–learning environment. HEAD coalition in Dailekh conducted oversight of two community schools. The team comprising representatives from CSOs and journalists conducted oversight in Malika secondary school and Tribhuvan secondary school. The team found that staff, teachers, and management were aware of policy provisions and requirements, but they were not sincere in implementing them and were largely not accountable to the people they served.

Activity 3.2.4: Identify three to five key civil society champions at district level

CS:MAP partners have identified 151 civil society champions (26 female) in 34 project districts. These champions have local acceptance and can influence local policy making. CS:MAP is working continuously to build their capacity for effective advocacy. They have been involved in facilitating and leading civic interactions and discussions at the district level. This approach has been effective in engaging, sensitizing, and empowering civil society at the district level and strengthening collaboration to reinforce civic space in democratic governance at the subnational level. Engaging CSO champions has contributed to deepening the knowledge of local influencers on certain public interest issues and increased the vibrancy and importance of civil society at the subnational level.

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Activity 3.2.5: Organize district-level interactions on vibrant civic space (role of civil society) and policy priority issues

CS:MAP partners organized a total of 26 civil society interactions in different districts to increase the vibrancy of civil society. Discussions focused on issues like partnerships between local government and civil society, CSOs’ engagement in the legislative process, challenges for civil society in the new federal context, role of civil society in democratic governance, and reinvigorating civic space in the changing context of Nepal, among others. FMDC organized a province-level interaction with civil society and media representatives on their role in the changed context. The objective was to explore civil society space to collaborate with provincial and local governments. The importance of collaboration between civil society and media on common agendas was also discussed. Hem Raj Pant, former registrar of Far-West University, presented a paper on the role of civil society in the changing context. A written commitment was made by the civil society and law makers for civil society participation in law and policy formulation process at provincial and local levels. Ensuring the participation of marginalized communities in government initiations was also emphasized. Deputy Speaker of Sudurpashchim Province, Nirmala Badal (Joshi), led the discussion. RWDC conducted an interaction on Open Government Partnership (OGP) with elected representatives of local units in Dang. The main objective was to ensure public participation, transparency, accountability of local governments, and collaboration among the government, private sector, and civil society to improve governance. RWDC focused on the concept, objective, and importance of the OGP and local government for strengthening the democratic system and achieving targets through collaboration. Also refer to Activity 1.2.6 for other details. Activity 3.2.6: Conduct strategic coalition-building meetings between CSOs and media for initiating joint actions

Civil society and media took up 21 joint actions. Some were follow ups to issues discussed in the civil society interactions and some were new policy priorities and issues of public interest. Joint actions included submission of letters of memorandum, delegations, and meetings with local governments and concerned agencies to draw their attention to contemporary policy and public interest issues. Joint actions have focused on improving the public service delivery system, engaging CSOs in the lawmaking process, building partnerships between local government and CSOs, and reinvigorating civil society’s role in democratic governance, among other topics. Samudayik Sarathi organized a meeting between CSOs and media at Chautara, district headquarters of Sindhupalchowk, to launch a joint initiative for proactive disclosure of information as required by Right to Information Act, 2007. The meeting produced an action plan to monitor proactive disclosure by public bodies in the district.

The government is required to delist ownership (for tax purposes) of land that citizens do not use. Failure of the government authority to delist such land has compelled citizens to continue paying taxes. The issue was discussed in the HEAD coalition meeting, leading to a

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decision to join hands with media to further advocate on the issue. In yet another joint action, civil society and media in Sindhupalchowk district advocated for delisting/providing tax waivers to owners of land that is used for expanding rural roads in Barhabise municipality. A similar issue was also raised in Kavre district. A joint meeting with media was organized for collaborative effort to address “tax waiver of the land under the rural road site.” A memorandum was submitted to the mayors of Panauti and Banepa municipalities by CSOs and media to address these issues.

Activity 3.2.7: Hold Bi-annual summits

CS:MAP promoted collaboration between civil society and media, and coordination between district and national networks on public service oversight, through an all-partner bi-annual summit in April 2019. Representatives from CS:MAP project partners participated and shared lessons learned from advocacy initiatives, as well as shifts in civil society roles at the district and federal levels. Experts and national-level HEAD coalition/federation representatives were invited to serve as resource persons in order to strengthen vertical and horizontal linkages between CS:MAP partners and national-level actors. Result 3.3: Improved citizen awareness and use of available GON social accountability mechanisms

Activity 3.3.1: Conduct orientation for citizens on social accountability tools

A total of 14 orientations were organized by CS:MAP partners on SA tools for citizens and elected representatives at the gaunpalika/municipality level. Participants representing common assembly members, LDAG members, local CSOs, and elected representatives such as chair/vice-chair, mayor/deputy mayor, and ward chairpersons from the working gaunpalika/municipality were sensitized on legal provisions of SA tools. Participants were oriented on the Public Hearing Guidelines–2067, Public Audit Guidelines–2067, Social Audit Guidelines–2067, Right to Information Act–2064, and Good Governance (Management and Operation) Act–2064. Activity 3.3.2: Institutionalize and regularize gaunpalika/municipality for organizing social audit and public hearing at a fixed venue

CS:MAP partners were approached by 13 local governments seeking technical support in conducting public hearings. This indicates increased collaboration between CS:MAP partners and local governments. Public hearings focused on public service delivery related to health, education, and agriculture, including budget expenditure; implementation of projects at the community level; and the non-participatory law-making process at local level. Citizens discussed their dissatisfaction with poor participation in the local-level planning process, the lack of a grievance-handling mechanism at the ward office, and poor public service delivery. These public hearings were attended by representatives from local governments, media, civil society, academia, and citizens. For example, HURADEC in Ramechhap facilitated a public hearing conducted by Gokulganga gaunpalika. Similarly, Ghorahi sub-metropolis requested RWDC to facilitate a public hearing in Dang. Issues discussed at that hearing included pro- active disclosure on a quarterly basis, developing integrated development plan, facilitating student enrollment, ensuring quality and free education, ensuring public participation in

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policy-making process, managing budget for sickle cell anemic people, and providing textbooks to public schools in a timely manner. Activity 3.3.3: Conduct public expenditure tracking system (PETS) at the local level During the quarter, CS:MAP partners conducted 12 PETS on distribution of scholarships in community schools, with technical support from ISO partners and FHI 360. Samudayik Sarathi conducted PETS in distribution of scholarships to target groups in Kavre and Sindhupalchowk districts. Similarly, DEC Nepal in Dhading, IHRICON in Bhaktapur, Sundar Nepal in Jajarkot and Surkhet, FMDC in Kailali, RWDC in Dang, and CDC in Nuwakot and Rasuwa conducted PETS on the scholarship amounts. The findings showed protracted delays in the distribution of scholarship amounts; the scholarship fund was found not to be distributed proportionate to eligible students; and the list of scholarship recipients was not posted on the notice boards. CSOs have shared the findings with division chiefs of municipalities/gaunpalika.

Activity 3.3.4: Conduct community score card at the local level

In this reporting quarter, CSOs conducted 12 community score cards (CSCs) in health posts. These CSCs served as platforms for service providers and community members to identify gaps, explore constraints qualitatively, discuss issues regarding public service delivery, and resolve them amicably through formulation of an action plan. Samudayik Sarathi conducted CSC at Chaku health post in Bhotekoshi gaunpalika Ward no 5, Sindhupalchowk. Input tracking matrix, self-evaluation matrix, performance evaluation matrix, and interface meeting were used/conducted during the process. Citizens and service providers jointly agreed on an action plan with a division of tasks, responsibilities, and deadlines. The health post committed to improve availability of free medicines, establish a staff mobility chart, improve poor sanitation, organize mobile health camps in remote areas, and arrange a counselling room for patients. A five-member monitoring committee has been formed to monitor implementation of the agreed-on action plan.

Sundar Nepal Sanstha implemented CSC in Bheriganga health post in Bheriganga municipality 11, Ramghat, Surkhet, for the first time. Similarly, SOCH Nepal implemented CSC at Prapcha health post in Molung gaunpalika, Ward no 5 in Okhaldhunga. The process highlighted lack of a separate room for family planning counseling and immunization, unfriendly behavior of the staff, lack of room for a village clinic, ineffective waste disposal system, lack of display of citizen charter in visible place, lack of stretchers for carrying patients, lack of awareness programs in schools, lack of women-friendly toilets, lack of training for Female Community Health Volunteers, and no regular supply of water. A monitoring committee was formed to monitor the action plan—which lists tasks, deadlines, and responsibilities for addressing the identified issues.

Activity 3.3.5: Conduct social audit of CSOs

FMDC organized a social audit in Gauriganga municipality on May 16, 2019. This was the only social audit conducted by a CS:MAP partner during the quarter. The program was facilitated by an independent consultant. Administrative and program details (such as targets vs. achievements and financial details including the list of projects being implemented by the

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partners) were presented to the multi-stakeholder group comprising representatives from government offices, local governments, media, CSOs, and beneficiaries. The practice of CS:MAP partners conducting their own intuitional social audits has lent credibility and increased mutual accountability among CSOs and government agencies in the district. Also, during the quarter, IRDS in Gulmi district provided technical support to 16 health posts in conducting social audits at the requests of local governments. The health posts were located in Resunga municipality, Isma gaunpalika, Chhatrakot gaunpalika, Ruru gaunpalika, and Satyabati gaunpalika. This reflects CS:MAP’s increased collaboration with local governments and the confidence they have in CS:MAP CSO partners in providing their expertise in facilitating SA tools. Activity 3.3.6: Conduct right-to-information (RTI) campaign

Sundar Nepal in Surkhet has disclosed information proactively, as required by the Right to Information (RTI) Act—becoming perhaps the first non-governmental organization in the district to do so. Sundar Nepal disclosed 20 types of information to the public by displaying them on an organizational notice board. Sundar Nepal has been working on governance for a long time and took this initiative to ensure its accountability. Information and Human Right Research Center (IHRC) has also initiated disclosing 20 types of information as required by the RTI. Every quarter, IHRC publishes on its notice board information on all types of activities, their costs, and other details.

IHRICON organized a sensitization program on proactive disclosure of information in Bhaktapur and Lalitpur for HEAD coalition members and other civil society members. The program aimed at sensitizing CSOs on the importance of proactive disclosure, its role in promoting accountability, and the legal obligation to disclose information as per the RTI Act.

Activity 3.3.7: Radio programming to raise citizen awareness of social accountability mechanisms

Activity 3.3.7.1: Hold content advisory group (CAG) meetings

CS:MAP partner EAI organized quarterly Content Advisory Group (CAG) meetings with project stakeholders, including media representatives, CSOs, national CS:MAP partners, sectoral experts, and government officials. Eleven CAG meetings (one for central and ten for local) were conducted this quarter. The meetings helped generate content ideas for the radio programs and allowed producers to engage in fruitful discussions with a wide range of stakeholders and topical experts. The CAGs are increasingly serving as platforms for engagement among government, CSOs, media, private sector, and citizens in general.

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Others 0 Religious Minorities 0 Terai/Madheshi Dalits 0 Terai/Madheshi Other… 0 Terai/ Janajatis/ Adivasis 1 Terai/Madheshi… 0 Hill Dalits 0 Newars 2 Hill/Mountain Janajatis 1 Hill Brahmins/ Chhetris 6

Figure 7. Gender status of central CAG (n=10) Figure 8. Caste and ethnicity status of central CAG (n=10) The central CAG meeting held in Kathmandu was attended by ten representatives from Kanjosam gaunpalika, Freedom Forum, NGO Federation of Nepal, and the media. Please refer to Figure 8 for participants segregation. The local CAG meetings included 123 participants, including 57 (46%) female. The participants included 33 government officials, 50 CSO representatives, and 40 media representatives.

Others 0 Religious Minorities 0 Terai/Madheshi… 0 Terai/Madheshi… 7 Terai/ Janajatis/… 4 Terai/Madheshi… 1 Hill Dalits 11 Newars 4 Hill/Mountain… 16 Hill Brahmins/… 80

Figure 9. Gender status of local CAG (n: 123) Figure 10. Caste/ethnicity status of local CAG (n: 123) The local CAG meetings not only helped identify priority issues for production but also helped to endorse advocacy priorities selected by CSOs through CA meetings and other activities. Issues endorsed by the CAG included local-level revenue generation, budget development and target group budgets, status of health checkup in government schools, role of local level in preventing sickle-cell anemia, implementation status of agricultural grant, price determination of agricultural produce, practice of public audit as a SA tool, and proactive disclosure of information as mandated by the RTI Act. The meetings also endorsed participation of target

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groups in local-level planning processes, status of target group plans, maternity health services, adolescent-girl-friendly schools, and the role of women in local governments. Some local CAG meetings were held at CSO or government offices with the participation of LDAG and CA members, elected provincial and local government representatives, chief administrative officers of municipalities, chief district officers, and government officers representing the health, education, agriculture, and DRR sectors. Hajurko Radio in Ramechhap district conducted a CAG meeting at the Manthali municipal office; Radio Niglasaini in Baitadi district at the Dasrathchand municipal office; and Radio Madanpokhara in Palpa district at a Ward office of Tansen municipality.

Activity 3.3.7.2: Conduct refresher training on local content production for Sajha Boli local production partners This activity was conducted in Q1 and reported on accordingly.

Activity 3.3.7.3: Carry out Sajha Boli program production, broadcast, and audience interactivity CS:MAP’s ten local FM radio station partners produced and broadcast two episodes of the local version of Sajha Boli, complementing the two central version episodes produced and broadcast each month. A total of 66 episodes were produced and broadcast from 39 local FM radio stations. Six episodes of the central version of Sajha Boli were also broadcast by the national broadcaster, Radio Nepal. Interactive voice response (IVR) data has demonstrated the radio series has increased citizen understanding and awareness of public service delivery, use of public resources, and citizen oversight through SA mechanisms. The series utilizes creative formats including mini-drama, outdoor discussions, and call-in segments. Episodes of the central version were broadcast 240 times during the quarter and episodes of the local version were broadcast 234 times. The radio episodes also promoted the SMS My Voice campaign among youth and other audiences and helped address queries posed by youth via IVR for their local representatives. The Sajha Boli central version focused mostly around the Local Level Planning Process (LLPP) because it coincided with this cycle. The program also focused on the RTI and SA tools. The table below lists the themes of the central version episodes. Episode Broadcast date Theme 61 14 April LLPP 62 28 April Participation of target groups in LLPP 63 12 May Public participation at the settlement level of LLPP 64 26 May LLPP and prioritization of plans 65 9 June Proactive disclosure of information at local level (RTI) 66 23 June CSOs & media role in implementing SA tools Table 1: Thematic focus of Sajha Boli central version episodes EAI produced an episode in Pyuthan district from an outdoor discussion, with active participation by the local government chief, deputy chief, chief administrative officer,

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executive members, Ward chairpersons, information officer, chiefs of public service providing units, CSO and media representatives, and members of the Listening Discussion and Action Group (LDAG) and CA. EAI produced another episode as a call-in show in which two CSO and media experts discussed the importance, current practice, and challenges of implementing SA tools. They also responded to queries from callers. Comments from listeners about Sajha Boli (gathered via IVR) are included in the box. This program has benefited me a lot. I got information about the local-level planning process. The decentralized process facilitates active public participation in both local-level planning and implementation. This enables the public to put pressure on authorities and to speak for rights and justice.

–Listener

It is very important to participate in the local-level planning process. It helps in reducing potential conflict and building local people's ownership in the government's plan. Participatory planning can result in programs that are better and more efficient.

–Listener

Prior to Sajha Boli, I was unaware how the local-level planning process includes plan formulation, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation. But after listening to this program, I got to know about it.

–Listener

Production and broadcast of Public Service Announcements (PSAs) This Quarter, 26 PSAs were produced and broadcast to provide information on local level planning process and on the implementation of public audits as social accountability tools. Designed as short and effective messages, the PSAs helped to raise awareness and provide information about the LLPP, the importance of civic participation in the LLPP, and on addressing corruption through the use of social accountability tools. The PSAs were produced in nine different languages, namely Nepali, Magar, Newari, Awadhi, Tamang, Chepang, Sherpa, Tharu and Doteli. The PSAs, broadcast at least 16 times a day for 10 days, were also disseminated through IVR, MeroReport and Sajha Boli, resulting in a total of 4,160 broadcasts through 12 radio stations.

Activity 3.3.8: Listening, discussion, and action groups (LDAGs) to engage citizens in social accountability

This quarter, EAI facilitated two three-day trainings on effective facilitation skills for LDAG facilitators, at Bhaktapur and Nepalgunj, respectively. Of the 46 youth participants, 18 were male and 28 female; 38 were below 30 years of age (see table). They came from nine earthquake-affected districts and 16 CDCS districts. The training focused on meeting management; documentation of meeting minutes; discussing and analyzing information shared on the radio program; and creating and implementing action plans aimed at oversight and reform of public resource use and public service delivery. Participants learned about group formation and dynamics and how to engage with local stakeholders. They learned about the importance of addressing challenges that affect the daily lives of women, youth, and other traditionally marginalized groups and how to use SA tools to prompt local

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authorities to action. With continued support from CSOs, these youth are potential civil society leaders. Age range Code Total 15-19 years 1 18 20-24 years 2 15 25-29 years 3 7 30-59 years 4 6 60 years and above 5 0 Total 46 Table 2: Age distribution of LDAG facilitator trainees LDAG engagement to promote social accountability This quarter, CS:MAP LDAGs initiated significant citizen engagement actions to promote SA. Five LDAGs submitted memoranda to their local governments to address issues related to livestock services, agriculture insurance programs, citizen charters, student health checkup, and provision of sanitary pads for female students. As a result of efforts by the Janachetana LDAG, a veterinary clinic has been established in Kandakhutti in the Ghorahi sub-metropolis. The clinic will provide vaccination, spaying, and castration services. Picture: LDAG submitting memorandum Bhure Takuri LDAG of Sarumarani gaunpalika, Ward no 4, Baddanda, in Pyuthan district raised the issue of mandatory health checkup and lack of sanitary pads in schools. Girl students are known to avoid school or even drop out when they reach menstrual age due to lack of sanitary pads and ways to dispose them. The LDAG submitted a memorandum to the Ward chair on April 23 demanding mandatory periodic health checkup of students and

Picture: Health Check up in Janata Secondary School provision of sanitary pads in community schools. The Ward office organized a health checkup at the Janata Secondary School on May 14 and is preparing for the free distribution of sanitary pads in schools.

After listening to and discussing the government’s agricultural insurance program broadcast on episode 54 of Sajha Boli local version, Jaleshwori LDAG in Dhading district submitted a memorandum at the Siddhalekh gaunpalika office requesting such a program. The Ward chairman of Siddhalekh gaunpalika, Ward no 5, Bunsun, committed to prioritizing the program in the upcoming Village Assembly plan. A Ward office in the Dolakha district is in the process of publicly displaying its citizen charter after the Katakuti LDAG members submitted a memorandum to the Ward chairperson requesting this. After requests by the

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Maharudra LDAG, the Ward office of Dasrathchand municipality, Ward no1 in Baitadi district supported the marking of a zebra crossing on the Dasrathchand highway near the Manilekh school at Gurukhola. Citizen charters were placed in all Ward offices of Bheri municipality by May, after the Syauli and Bhur LDAGs in Jajarkot district made requests at the Sthaniya Sabha or CA meeting and with Ward offices. Earlier, citizen charters had not been publicly displayed at the offices of Wards 7, 8, 9, and 10. At the Bhur health post in Bheri municipality, Ward no 9, pregnancy tests were only offered once a week. The issue was raised by the Bhur LDAG members at the CA meeting in the presence of the health post in-charge. The health post now offers pregnancy tests on all work-days.

The New Sankalpa LDAG from Pahariya, Krishnapur, Ward no 1, in Kanchanpur district monitored the condition of a newly constructed road at the nearby village of Banda. The LDAG noted that the road's blacktop had been damaged within a week of construction. They investigated and found that the 223-meter long, 5-meter wide road had been constructed by the Api Construction Service at a cost of NPR 1.38 million. After local authorities attempted to protect the construction company, the LDAG raised the issue in the local media. As a result, the Krishnapur, Ward committee of Ward no 1 organized a meeting on June 14 and released a statement committing to investigate the case, take the necessary action against the construction company, and reconstruct the damaged road as soon as possible (see photos).

The members of the Ugratara LDAG, Amargadhi-8, Tantar, in Dadeldhura district submitted a memorandum to the Ward chair demanding a separate space for the village health clinic because women and girls were not comfortable seeking sexual and reproductive health services or counselling due to lack of privacy. The Ward chair committed to allocating space for a clinic in the long run and arranged for a rented space in the interim. There are numerous other stories of LDAGs initiating actions aimed at local reform. However, follow up is needed to ensure results of these actions are sustained and institutionalized within local structures. EAI will continue to follow up with respective LDAGs in this regard and will work with FHI 360 and CS:MAP’s local CSO partners to ensure that LDAGs continue to function as local youth groups with a civic engagement and public policy and service reform agenda.

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LDAG engagement in LLPP The 62nd episode of Sajha Boli central version inspired ten LDAGs to actively participate in the LLPP in the Arghakhanchi, Dang, Gorkha, Jajarkot, Makwanpur, Salyan, Baitadi, Kailali, and Dadeldhura districts. They proposed projects for improved drinking water supply, irrigation facilities, playgrounds for children, and capacity development projects for youth on life skills, income-generation, and entrepreneurship. More than 45 LDAG members participated in the LLPP. The Masine LDAG in Makawanpur district proposed a plan for building an irrigation facility in their village. In the previous year’s LLPP, this LDAG successfully advocated for a drinking water supply project in their village. A budget of NPR 449,000 was approved for that. The Namuna and Bhalukhop LDAGs in Ramechhap district conducted an interaction program related to LLPP in coordination with the Ward office. They discussed process and potential plans for a media/event anchoring skills training for youth through the LLPP.

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Regular monitoring and support to CSO for LDAG mobilization and advocacy EAI conducted multiple field support visits to LDAGs in coordination with CSO partners to build the capacity of LDAG members to engage in advocacy and oversight in accordance with local priorities. The field visits helped EAI coordinate with CSOs to reactivate LDAGs that had not been very functional. Till the end of June, CSO partners had re-formed and relocated 60 LDAGs among the existing 102 LDAGs. Among the 60, 34 existing groups were either re-formed or relocated, and 26 groups had a change of facilitators. EAI reviewed and revised the Outreach Management Strategic Plan (OMSP) taking into account learning and experiences from the field, and through an EAI full-team review meeting on May 2. The OMSP second edition identified as major challenges the reluctance of CSO partners to own Sajha Boli, coordinate youth engagement in the SMV campaign, mobilize LDAGs for optimal effectiveness, and interact on MeroReport. The report provides recommendations for best addressing these challenges. In June, EAI coordinated with the CSMAP ICT consultant to plan and conduct ICT workshops in the Surkhet, Kailali, and Dadeldhura districts. These workshops focused on the importance and practical utilization of basic ICT tools and applications to draw audience attention to advocacy, oversight, and CSO achievements. EAI utilized the events to encourage the uptake of MeroReport as CS:MAP’s own tool for the purpose. CS:MAP CRs visited LDAGs and/ or attended their meetings 116 times in April and May. These visits were conducted to organize listening and discussion sessions at the meetings and collect updates and voices (sound bytes) for inclusion within Sajha Boli and MeroReport. Activity 3.3.9: Engage youth in social accountability

This quarter, three CS:MAP-themed, youth-focused Saathi Sanga Manka Kura (SSMK) radio episodes were produced and broadcast by Radio Nepal and 60 local FM radio stations. The episodes focused on proactive public interest information disclosure as an SA tool, the LLPP, and the public hearing as an SA tool. They incorporated the experiences of youth who had participated and the voices of government officials at the federal and sub-national level calling youth to collaborate with governments in ensuring transparency and accountability. (See Annex 3 for details). A total of 750 audience responses were received in comparison to 308 in the previous quarter, indicating growing interest among youth in these topics. The majority of responses were received via Facebook (457) followed by IVR (191) and SMS (102). The table below provides details about responses received during the quarter. Month Episode Issue Facebook IVR SMS Total Percent April 929 Proactive 194 43 20 257 34.3% disclosure May 933 LLPP 117 66 48 231 30.8% June 938 Public hearing 146 82 34 262 34.9% Total 457 191 102 750 60.9% 25.5% 13.6 % Table 3: SSMK audience responses

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The box includes sample responses.

Youth participation is necessary for monitoring local government activities and mitigation of corruption. We must participate in the settlement level planning for effective development for our locality. – Female participant, Banke Youth must show interest in the settlement level planning to understand the kind of plans that are being selected and the agencies through which budget spending will be channeled through. – Female participant Youth must participate in the settlement level planning to ensure quality planning, understand what plans are being included, and prevent corrupt or unethical practices. – Male participant, Sankhuwasabha We should participate in the planning process not only for ourselves but also to ensure that the needs of our communities and villages are addressed, leading to rapid development. – Female participant A public hearing was conducted in our Ward but marginalized members including female, Dalits, people with disabilities, and elderly people were either not informed or not aware.

– Participant, Bajhang

Result 3.4: Improved citizen engagement in media and information and communications technology (ICT) tools to strengthen public participation and oversight

Activity 3.4.1: Conduct SMS My Voice campaigns

EAI launched the SMS My Voice (SMV) campaign for Year 4 on December 8, 2018, to encourage youth to actively engage in oversight of public resource use and public service delivery though the use of ICT tools. The campaign, titled Mero Palika, Mero Chaso (my local government, my concern) encouraged young people to participate in the LLPP for budget advocacy and oversight. It was divided in six phases to match the LLPP timeline. By the end of this quarter, four phases of the campaign were completed, with the fifth phase ongoing. In phase five, the campaign invites youth to share their experiences participating in community level planning meetings in their respective Wards. In the previous phases, the campaign encouraged youth to participate in the LLPP and asked them about their knowledge of the planning and budget allocation process. A total of 4,618 individuals participated in the campaign (see the figure and the table Figure 11. Gender distribution of participation in SMV campaign (n=897) for breakdowns). At least 388 recorded personal statements (concerns, queries, or

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remarks about their participation in the planning process). Up to Phase IV, 897 participants provided information about their gender and 39% were female; 878 provided information about their age and 72% were youths; 262 disclosed information about their geographic location and 86% were from CS:MAP districts. Phase Date Number of callers Number of qualitative responses Phase I Dec 8, 2018 – Jan 15, 2019 976 29 Phase II Jan 16 – Feb 28, 2019 1,082 70 Phase III March 1 – April 15, 2019 1,183 143 Phase IV April 16 – May 31, 2019 1,073 106 Phase V June 1 – July 15, 2019 304 (till June 25) 40 Phase VI July 16 – August 31, 2019 Total (as of June 25) 4,618 388 Table 4: SMV campaign participation details It was interesting to note that the SMV campaign received responses from listeners in non- project districts. Many of the callers shared inspiring statements about participating in the LLP and engaging with local representatives in budget allocation (see box). Some inquired about SA tools. In the ongoing and the upcoming phase, the campaign team will aim to reach more youth and encourage them to make statements or share questions.

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I am a LDAG facilitator and we had gone to the Ward office on Baishak 25 (May) to inquire about the dates of different phases of the planning process. The Ward secretary informed us that it will start in the first week of Ashar (May). We are all excited about it and will be participating in it. –LDAG facilitator, Bheri municipality, Jajarkot We, the members of Buda LDAG in Dailekh, participated in the community-level gathering of the planning process, and expressed our voice and opinion. We will also be participating in the upcoming steps of the planning process. –Facilitator, Buda LDAG, Dailekh I am a member of a mother's group in my community. We are planning to demand for training on how to use Facebook and the internet as most of us are illiterate and do not have knowledge about how to use such tools. –Secretary of Jana Sewa Aama Samuha I am a facilitator of the Janachetana LDAG group in Dang. I know that the budget is allocated in various sectors and implemented by users' committees. Three lakh rupees was allocated for road construction and it was implemented by users' committee. Seven lakh rupees was allocated for pure drinking water supply and a pipeline was constructed by the users' committee. Likewise, 15 lakh rupees was set aside for the construction of a deep-water boring, for which work has begun from April. Ghorahi municipality is also conducting public hearing every four months and it is also conducting social audits. –LDAG facilitator, Ghorahi sub-metropolis, Dang I am currently staying at Rajghad gaunpalika in Jhapa, where we do not have proper facilities of road and health. The health workers don't come to their offices regularly. They don't conduct public hearing. The Ward chair never consults with local people and does whatever he/she likes. Even in this modern time, we don't have roads. –Caller from Jhapa) In my municipality, what budget is allocated for agriculture, or health or for youth? How can youth benefit from local plans and budgets? What can be the role of youth? I participate in many activities in my municipality but there is no information board. So, when will they put up an information board? –Chandra Dev Badu, Punararbas municipality, Kanchanpur)

Responses received from SMV participants were shared via radio and other platforms. For instance, queries received on SMV were shared at an outdoor production organized in Sarumarani gaunpalika of Pyuthan district on May 16. EAI made continuing efforts to encourage callers to post their own thoughts, opinions, or queries. The campaign team conducted follow-up calls to understand why callers refrained from posting their statements. They found that not all callers understood the campaign objective, indicating a need for wider promotion. A video message featuring Malvika Subba, a well-known celebrity and former Miss Nepal, was produced and widely distributed through social media. The campaign also used social media and MeroReport to promote the campaign and engage the audience. All 34 CRs promoted the campaign.

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Promotion of SMV campaign by LDAG and local youth Six events were organized to promote the SMV campaign in the Pyuthan, Banke, and Dadeldhura districts. CRs coordinated with CSOs and local governments to organize an additional 16 events in the districts of Baitadi, Bardiya, Gulmi, Jajarkot, Kailali, Kapilbastu, Makwanpur, Ramechhap, Sindhuli, Surkhet, Salyan, and Dang. More than 500 youth participated in the SMV campaign orientations. In Salyan district, an SMV promotion event was organized in collaboration with the Sarada municipality and the local rural communication Picture: SMV campaign lead by LDAG center. The municipality provided financial support to engage more youth in the campaign. CRs played an important role in linking the campaign with local government priorities and activities. Two additional events will be organized in Salyan this quarter. In May, the Sajha Boli central production team visited Pyuthan district. They conducted an outdoor discussion and promoted the SMV campaign at two events. The first was held at the Srijanshil mother group and the second at the joint meeting of the Shrijanshil and Laligurans LDAGs, local youth, and CA members. The EAI outreach associate promoted the SMV campaign at two CA meetings at the Duduwa gaunpalika in Banke district. The Picture: youth in social accountability meetings were organized by CS:MAP partner IHRC. Activity 3.4.2: Organize Public Service Delivery Exhibition Thirty of the 34 CRs participated in a refresher photo-journalism training organized by EAI in March 2019. They learned to identify and capture good quality photographs that depict the use of public resources and the delivery of public services, with the aim of exposing gaps. The training assessment showed an average increase (increment) in confidence level among CRs in conducting advocacy through the use of photographs and in designing short photo- stories. The number of and quality of photographs shared by CRs also increased post training. A total of 202 photographs were shared during the quarter: 25 related to agriculture, 14 to health, 11 to education, and ten to DRR. EAI will encourage CRs to share more photographs in the coming quarter in order to meet the target and also promote visual documentation of oversight.

Activity 3.4.3: Update online collaboration platform (MeroReport)

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MeroReport is used to engage citizens in media and ICT to strengthen public participation and oversight. There has been a steady increase in the number of page views since the first quarter of Year 4. This quarter reached a cumulative page viewership of 21,292. As in previous quarters, the highest viewership of MeroReport was attained through social media (76.5%) or through social networking sites (see figure). The social media page of MeroReport has been used for sharing articles featured on MeroReport and for the cross-promotion of CS:MAP activities. As of the quarter under

review, there were 1,846 fans (19% female) and Figure 12. Top channels 3,650 followers on Twitter (15% female). The majority of fans and followers of MeroReport’s social media pages are between 25 and 34 years of age. The posts shared have reached 31,018 people, of whom 2,185 engaged directly by commenting, liking, reacting, or sharing. At the end of June 2019, MeroReport had 2,216 members, of whom 24 joined during the quarter, and 519 new blog posts from 32 CS:MAP districts. The highest number of posts were from Dadelhura district (45), followed by Salyan district (38). The lowest number were from Rolpa (2). Most posts are from districts where CRs are active (see figure below).

Figure 13. Tree-map chart of blog posts from 32 districts EAI also utilized social media platforms for the Sajha Boli radio program and the MaKhaandina anti-corruption campaign. As of this quarter, the SajhaBoli Facebook page had 14,703 fans (36% female); the majority of fans and followers were between 18 and 24 years of age. The posts have reached 23,306 people; 2,501 of these engaged directly by commenting, liking, reacting, or sharing. The MaKhaandina page had 13,327 fans (24% female), also with a majority of fans and followers between 18 and 24 years of age. The posts

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on these pages have reached 10,075 people; 684 engaged directly by commenting, liking, reacting, or sharing. Activity 3.4.4: Orientation on Sajha Sabha apps

Orientations were held in last quarter as per the plan. Use of the application will be analyzed and reported in the next quarter.

Activity 3.4.5: Technical Support to open local units’ (municipality/gaunpalika) annual budget and plans to the public

CS:MAP proposed 10 local government units to MOFAGA for the implementation of OLGDS. During the reporting period, CS:MAP provided necessary support to Nepalgunj sub-metropolitan and Neelakantha municipality in the implementation; and consulted with other technical expert agencies to leverage this through their initiatives.

Objective 4: Strengthen organizational capacity and sustainability of CSOs working in USAID priority sectors to advance local solutions

Result 4.1: Improved institutional governance of selected CSOs and media organizations

Activity 4.1.1: Train and provide technical assistance and coaching to partner CSOs and media organizations

In this quarter, ISO partners NEPAN, NNSWA, and MITRA Samaj provided distance support to help achieve the remaining priorities of OCA–Institutional Improvement Plans (IIPs) in all 14 CSOs. The CS:MAP capacity building team conducted monthly skype meetings with ISOs, reviewed the status of OCA–IIP priorities, and provided guidance to support CSOs to help them achieve the remaining activities of their IIPs. These supports helped prepare CSOs for the third round of assessments.

Activity 4.1.2: Conduct annual organizational capacity assessments with partner organizations and adjust IIPs

During the quarter, NNSWA, MITRA Samaj, and NEPAN completed the third round of OCA assessments of the 14 CSOs. Assessment was conducted in 39 sub domains under seven main domains: governance, administration, human resource management, financial management, organization management, program management and external relationships. The CS:MAP capacity building team provided backstopping support to each ISO to ensure assessment quality and mentor new staff in assessment and facilitation of the tool. Average CSO changes in scores in the seven domains are shown in the figure below.

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Figure 14. Average OCA scores for 14 CSOs, 2017-2019

The assessments found improvements in capacity scores for all domains. The highest improvements over the baseline in 2017 were in administration (from a score of 2.09 to 3.30) and human resources management (from a score of 2.0 to 3.16). Capacity in financial management increased by an increment of 1.13, followed by program management (1.02), governance (0.96), and external relations (0.90). Governance and external relations had lower increments because they had higher scores at baseline. Overall increment in third round of assessment is 66.53% from the baseline 2.20 in 2017 (see the figure below).

Figure 15. OCA Comparative Chart (2017-2019) After the assessment, ISO partners supported CSOs to prepare IIPs for the next year, covering all 39 sub domains under seven major domains. All identified gaps were included in IIPs.

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Result 4.2: Improved capacity of select CSOs and media organizations to mobilize social and financial resources for sustainability

Activity 4.2.1: Develop financial sustainability plans

This activity will be conducted in the coming quarter. During the quarter under review, all 14 CSOs completed the CS:MAP financial revenue form. CS:MAP ISO partner MITRA Samaj has started to analyze the forms. They will prepare a detailed report analyzing the forms and presenting changes in financial sustainability from 2017 to 2019. Activity 4.2.2: Conduct biannual group trainings in financial sustainability

In coordination with ISOs and CSOs, the CS:MAP capacity-building team tracked the progress of the financial sustainability plan for April to June of 2019. As per the plan, 11 CSOs submitted 17 proposals (one government) and received new funding from seven sources—two from government and five from INGOs—with a total value of NPR 36.5 million.

Activity 4.2.3: Conduct open houses to expose CS:MAP partners to new donors

CS:MAP is working to widen the reach of its partners with donors and showcase the good works they have carried out, including institutional reform measures. The reporting quarter coincided with the local-level planning process; CSOs were therefore busy with civic advocacy around this process. To ensure effective preparation and meaningful participation of donors and INGOs, the team decided to organize an open house in the coming quarter, along with the bi-annual summit and public services delivery photo exhibit.

Result 4.3: Improved capacity of CSOs and media organizations to advance local solutions on priority development issues across sectors and to promote peer-learning opportunities

Activity 4.3.1: Train and provide TA to selected CSOs and media partners to improve technical and organizational development capacities

Please refer to Activity 4.1.1. for details on TA.

Activity 4.3.2: Strengthen the local marketplace of capacity development services

ISO partners have supported CSOs to orient non-CS:MAP CSOs in their districts on the OCA tool. In the first quarter, 84 CSO representatives participated in these events and in quarter 2, 88 representatives participated; 21 CSOs sent requests to CS:MAP CSO partners to conduct their OCAs. ISOs plan to facilitate these OCAs in quarter 4. The CS:MAP capacity building team will customize the OCA tool for this purpose and ensure the assessments are carried out as outlined.

Activity 4.3.3: Facilitate peer learning among partner CSOs and media organizations

CS:MAP planned to conduct peer learning among partner CSOs and media organizations prior to the bi-annual summit but decided to do this jointly with the national advocacy

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partners and use the summit as a peer-learning and sharing platform. CS:MAP has also conducted monthly and quarterly review and reflection meetings with its partners. In addition, the MeroReport portal has been used increasingly by CS:MAP partners for learning and sharing experiences. (Details are provided in Section 7 of this report.)

5. Cross-Cutting Interventions

5.1 Gender equality and social inclusion

As envisioned, CS:MAP has ensured GESI integration into all its programmatic activities. CS:MAP has attempted to ensure that inclusion in the project goes beyond just numbers and has meant incorporating the voice and concerns of women, minority communities, and excluded groups. CS:MAP continued to analyze laws and policies from the GESI lens and to bring up GESI-related issues. One example was interaction on the Federal Budget for the FY 2019/2020— inviting Madheshi, Muslim, and gender minority communities. CS:MAP has continuously underscored the need for inclusion within its partner organizations and in programmatic interventions, forums, field visits, and meetings. CS:MAP supported a program exploring powerful experiences of discrimination and struggles by Dalits and creating a powerful narrative for broadening public debate. CS:MAP remained cognizant of gender equality and social inclusion in the design, implementation, and assessment of all its activities. In the IJ fellowship program, CS:MAP made all attempts to prioritize journalists who were women and/or belonged to marginalized groups. Likewise, the selected journalists were encouraged to focus on public interest issues and agendas of women and marginalized communities. Of the seven published IJ stories, three were on issues related to women, Dalits, and minorities in the Rukum, Surkhet, and Rasuwa districts. CS:MAP made efforts to ensure GESI in setting agendas; selecting participants for events, voices; and content of radio program episodes; and in participation and agenda-setting in CAG meetings. CS:MAP ensured the participation of deputy mayors and vice chairpersons in all central- and local- level CAG meetings, as most of these posts are held by women. CS:MAP ensured GESI as an agenda in radio programs through such topics as target group participation in the LLPP; status of carrying out target group plans; status of maternity health services; girl-child-friendly environment in schools; and the role of women in political decision making. To ensure direct participation, CS:MAP initiated recording of community discussions as a format for its radio program. During the quarter, CS:MAP produced 11 episodes through the outdoor discussion format. CS:MAP ensured the participation of minority groups in these outdoor discussions and required that their issues be included as content. CS:MAP’s GESI tracker monitors target group participation in the radio program and the number of times issues related to women and marginalized groups and communities are discussed. CRs have received specific instructions to include voices and opinions of women, Dalits, and members of marginalized groups when they collect community voices for Sajha Boli. Discussion of GESI-related issues in the central version of Sajha Boli increased 6% during the reporting quarter over the previous one. In order to ensure wider reach and coverage, CS:MAP emphasized the production of radio programs and PSAs in multiple languages and dialects. This quarter, CS:MAP produced 26

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PSAs in Nepali that were reproduced and broadcast by 12 local FM radio partners in eight additional languages: Magar, Newari, Awadhi, Tamang, Sherpa, Chepang, Tharu, and Doteli. Similarly, two local radio partners (Krishnasar FM and Banke) produced local Sajha Boli in Awadhi. Two (Nigalasini FM and Baitadi) produced it in Baitadeli and broadcast these in eight CS:MAP districts. To ensure a common understanding of GESI among project stakeholders and the incorporation of GESI in all activities, CS:MAP designed and incorporated a session on GESI in the LDAG facilitator training. This session deals with GESI as a concept, why it is important to ensure social justice within development efforts, how meaningful participation lies at the core of good governance, and strategies for ensuring such participation in local governance. CS:MAP provides a separate space for discussion of GESI issues in MeroReport; the group currently has 24 members. With CS:MAP prioritizing GESI in MeroReport articles, 27 blogs were covered with such issues. The CS:MAP MeroReport management team has agreed to give first priority to GESI-related blogs.

5.2 Youth Engagement

Youth engagement in SA and public oversight has remained an ongoing priority, and efforts were made to ensure that media messages, campaigns, and outreach activities (especially LDAG led) maintained a youth focus. Three episodes of the SSMK radio program, immensely popular among the youth of Nepal, were produced to inform and engage youth in SA (described under Activity 3.3.9). The LDAGs maintained almost 100% youth membership and took up policy advocacy, annual planning and budget engagement, and public service delivery reform initiatives—with a primary focus on the interests of youth, women, and marginalized groups. (See also discussion under Activity 3.3.8.) The SMV campaign was designed and implemented targeting youth participation in budget advocacy and oversight, coinciding with Nepal’s annual fiscal planning and budget development cycle. (See Activity 3.4.1.) During the quarter, the majority (61%) of fans and followers of the MeroReport social media pages were between 25 and 34 years of age and 15% were between 18 and 24 years of age. The majority of MeroReport members are youth between 15 and 29 years of age. Of the 519 blogs contributed during the quarter, 77% were by youth. Sixteen blogs/articles focused on youth empowerment for budget advocacy, public accountability, local development, and youth entrepreneurship. These data and developments point to an encouraging trend in youth engagement in shaping local governance to advance public interest. They also provide an important learning for CS:MAP. Digital engagement is a work in progress and requires not only appropriate technology, but also a major cultural shift in the way young people (given their propensity to embrace ICTs more easily) utilize and interact with technology. While CS:MAP continues to address the cultural dynamics that limit meaningful digital engagement, it is important to remain abreast of the rapidly evolving technoscapes in Nepal and elsewhere.

5.3 Use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT)

CS:MAP utilized Information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools such as radio, IVR, SMS, the MeroReport web portal, and social media platforms to encourage citizen

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participation in advocacy and oversight. During the quarter, 66 Sajha Boli and three SSMK radio episodes were produced, aimed at improving citizen awareness and encouraging them to utilize available SA mechanisms and tools. The radio episodes promoted the use of the IVR as a platform for finding information, providing feedback, and interacting with peers. The SMV campaign utilized ICT tools (IVR, SMS, MeroReport, and social media platforms) to encourage youth to participate in the LLPP for budget advocacy and resource oversight. IVR was used for monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of media messaging; to monitor performances of CRs, CARs, and LDAG facilitators (through short questionnaire surveys); to monitor broadcasts; and for outcome harvesting. MeroReport served as a useful platform for online reporting, sharing, learning, and peer interactivity on cross-sectoral public services like health, education, agriculture, DRR, and issues related to GESI.

6. Coordination and Collaboration

During the reporting period, the CS:MAP team coordinated activities with various stakeholders.

Government of Nepal

CS:MAP partners Samjhauta Nepal/MAG have coordinated with concerned government offices and policy makers on a regular basis—sharing with parliamentarians analysis of the federal budget for FY 2019/20 from GESI lens; engaging with parliamentarians in reviewing the Advertisement Bill, the Social Security Bill, and Bill to Regulate Sports Development 2076; representing the gender perspective; working for the capacity enhancement of provincial parliamentarians; and in other ways. Examples of interactions during the quarter include the following:

Ministry of Home Affairs: GoGo Foundation held a meeting with Gyanath Dhakal, Undersecretary, and discussed the law-making process the ministry is engaged in and requested they ensure citizen engagement within it.

Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supply: GoGo Foundation held a meeting with Joint Secretary Puspa Raj Shahi and discussed the provisions of corporate social responsibility and the legal provisions and practices in Nepal.

Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs: Freedom Forum held a meeting with Section Officer Rajaram Dahal on May 6, 2019, and with Section Officer Ganesh Pokhrel and discussed progress of pending priority bills.

Provincial Ministries: Freedom Forum met with Arun Jha, Under Secretary of Province 2 and discussed the provincial Mass Communication Bill. Freedom Forum also communicated with Internal Affairs and Law Ministry Officer Suman Bhattarai of Gandai province and Internal Affairs and Law Ministry Officer of Province 5 regarding policy updates and progress on policy development process at provincial level.

GoGo Foundation held a meeting with Chief Minister of Province 5, Shankar Pokharel, and discussed present challenges and some clauses in the Social Organization Bill, 2075.

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Ministry of Women, Children, and Senior Citizens: INSEC Project Coordinator Shree Ram Bajagain visited the ministry and communicated with officials regarding bills proposed under the ministry.

CSOs and Media: Samjhauta Nepal and MAG have coordinated regularly with other CS:MAP partners as well as relevant CSOs and media organizations. Some of the examples have included: Samjhauta Nepal/MAG providing feedback from GESI lens on policy reviews made by the other national advocacy partners and coalition leads; ensuring participation of the program focal persons and/or board members in programs organized by the other CS:MAP partner organizations; engaging with different CSO representatives and media persons as key audiences in the CS:MAP project-related dialogues and discussions; and exploring common agendas for CSOs and media to work in collaboration to improve mutual understanding and gain public trust and confidence.

USAID implementers: CS:MAP has collaborated on OGP with other USAID projects, especially Niti Sambad (implemented by the National Democratic Institute). CS:MAP has also helped link CSOs to Niti Sambad for capacity building of deputy mayors.

Monthly/quarterly review and reflections: (See below, Section 8: Monitoring and Evaluation.)

Monthly CS:MAP bulletin: As per the approved FY2019 work plan, CS:MAP released a monthly bulletin during the first week of every month for project partners and other stakeholders. The bulletin included stories and activities from the previous month and documented CS:MAP and partner successes.

7. Monitoring and Evaluation

CS:MAP has tracked activities and progress through a robust system built to provide technical support to partners. CS:MAP has used multiple approaches including periodic progress review and reflection meetings; field visits; surveys; and orientation sessions about the project database management system and its linkages with indicators for capacitating its partners. CS:MAP undertook the following monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) activities during this reporting period: Capacity building activity related to MEL and CS:MAP Database Management System CS:MAP’s own database management system (created using Microsoft Office 365’s SharePoint platform) to track events and participant details is functional. The CS:MAP M&E team has been providing technical orientation sessions including trainings, one-on-one meetings, and virtual platforms (telephone, skype meetings, and so forth). As of this quarter, CS:MAP partners have entered over 800 event details with more than 22,000 participants. The database has helped partners to periodically analyze their data and reflect their outreach in reports.

Conduct periodic field visits for data monitoring and field verification

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During on-site visits to Dailekh, Achham, Sindhuli, and Okhaldhunga districts this quarter, the CS:MAP M&E team consulted with respective district coordinators, CRs, and CARs about their efforts in data gathering, documentation, and reporting. District coordinators were also oriented about the database management system, its features, and use for program management and reporting. This was done to ensure the quality of data reported in the CS:MAP database and was considered part of regular Data Quality Assurance (DQA). Conduct Data Quality Assessment (DQA) of CS:MAP partners During this reporting period, no specific DQAs were conducted. However, a desk-based assessment of data and attendance sheets uploaded in the CS:MAP database management system was carried out. Based on this, adjustments and corrections were suggested to partners regarding documentation of meeting minutes, attendance sheets, photos, visit notes, and so forth. CS:MAP plans to continue such assessments in subsequent reporting quarters. Assessment of public perception about CSOs and media Foundation for Development Management (FDM) was selected in the last quarter to conduct a public perception survey about CSOs and the media. They have completed field work and are in the process of reviewing a final draft report. Through this survey, CS:MAP expects to establish mid-term values for several of its indicators, including 1. Percentage change in public understanding of the role of CSOs and media; 2. Percentage change in public confidence in the role of CSOs and media; and 3. Percentage change in GON stakeholder satisfaction with CSO and media self-regulation. Results will be compared with the baseline values set in FY 2017.

In preparation for the survey, the CS:MAP M&E team led the project through a mandatory review by FHI 360’s Office of International Research Ethics (OIRE) and the Protection of Human Subject Committee (PHSC). OIRE was involved in reviewing the general protocol, consent forms, survey questionnaires, checklists for focus group discussions and key informant interviews. It then provided an Exemption Determination Notice certifying the study is exempt.

As the final draft of the public perception survey is now available, CS:MAP is working to calculate composite values for the indicators and will make the report public after final edits and formatting.

Conduct monthly/quarterly review and reflections CS:MAP has continued to conduct regular monthly and quarterly review meetings with its partners. This quarter, CS:MAP conducted two quarterly review and reflection meetings with its national advocacy and ISO partners to track progress. During these events, CS:MAP partners presented their progress, the plan for the upcoming quarter, implementation strategies, and challenges faced. Afterwards, CS:MAP team members provided feedback and recommendations for adjustments for effective implementation. The CS:MAP team also continued meeting with the USAID AOR/AAOR to keep USAID/Nepal updated on programmatic progress and to increase the effectiveness of activities.

Conduct bi-annual review/reflection workshops

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During this quarter, CS:MAP convened a two-day Bi-annual Summit and Review and Reflection Meeting on April 25–26, 2019, in Kathmandu. The meeting was attended by program leads from all grantees, district coordinators from 34 working districts of CS:MAP, representatives from USAID, and national-level civil society coalitions. The first day of the meeting focused on the objectives of the Bi-annual Summit: to strengthen collaboration, integration, and learning among partners and across activities; to strengthen vertical and horizontal linkages between CS:MAP partners and the HEAD coalition/networks through a civil society declaration; to forge a joint commitment/declaration based on effective practices, lessons learned, and challenges in implementing key recommendations of the midterm evaluation and explore the possibility for replicating effective practices; and to seek a common agenda for local and national advocacy. The second day focused on review and reflection of CS:MAP objectives: to document and share the accomplishments (outputs and outcomes) collectively; to review and reflect on innovations and lessons from program implementation (successes and limitations); to discuss and identify priorities for the next five months; to identify and agree on key result targets and build on lessons and innovations; and to share approaches and instances/cases of local solutions and joint actions. The key takeaways/recommendations from the Bi-annual Summit were as follows:

● Ensure increased space for citizen participation in the upcoming local-level planning process. ● Enhance public oversight of resource allocations at all times, but with added vigilance as the end of fiscal year nears. ● Provide additional impetus to GESI within planning and implementation, to ensure that the needs of the most marginalized or excluded are given due consideration in policy development and service delivery. ● Attach greater importance to the adoption and periodic audit of self- regulation mechanisms. ● Play a facilitator role in addressing bottlenecks hindering local policy and law development and reform. ● Build on the CS:MAP platforms to establish stronger linkages among resources (Sajhedari Manch, CAs, LDAGs, radio station partners, radio program Sajha Boli, MeroReport, youth engagement through the SMV campaign), and actors (Sajha Boli producers in radio stations; CRs, CARs, Sajhedari Manch, CA and LDAG members; and journalists trained through CS:MAP) for promoting multi-sectoral public policy advocacy that includes teachers, lawyers, journalists, researchers, academia, and the private sector. ● Establish issues that emerge through CS:MAP work as issues of public interest, rather than project-specific issues, to promote greater ownership and sustainability. ● Take the learning from the Bi-annual Summit and the Review and Reflection Workshop for discussion at the local level. ● Explore the role for CSOs in the dialogues that the federalism studies centers envisaged by the government will engender. ● Play a constructive role in establishing structures and mechanisms for promoting fiscal discipline and reform at the local level, including

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establishing independent third-party monitoring mechanisms and developing necessary policies and guidelines. Facilitate peer learning among partner CSOs and media organizations CS:MAP considers MeroReport, Facebook groups, bi-annual review meetings, bi-annual summits, CS:MAP monthly calendars, and CS:MAP monthly newsletters as platforms for facilitating peer learning among CSOs and media partners. CS:MAP has also produced three issues of a newsletter, shared with all partners via an email list-serve. The newsletters have served as a platform for partners to share their work, both internally among other CS:MAP partners and with external stakeholders, and to highlight some key activities, events, and achievements. MeroReport has been serving as a platform for resource sharing, learning, monitoring, and reporting on crosscutting issues and has supported peer learning as envisioned by CS:MAP. The platform has provided an extensive range of information and resources related to CS:MAP cross-sectoral priorities, the radio episodes, newsletters, public service announcements, and so forth. This reporting period witnessed increased utilization of the MeroReport platform as a common space for reporting on CS:MAP activities undertaken at the national and sub-national levels. Out of 519 blogs posted in MeroReport during the quarter, 375 were posted by CRs, 72 by CSO representatives, 59 by the trained journalists (AMO and IJ), four by CARs and nine by other .

Conduct annual organizational capacity assessments with partners organizations During the quarter, NNSWA, MITRA Samaj, and NEPAN completed the third round of OCA assessments of the 14 CSOs. The assessments found improvements in capacity scores for all domains. The highest improvements over the baseline in 2017 were in administration (from a score of 2.09 to 3.30) and human resources management (from a score of 2.0 to 3.16). Capacity in financial management increased by an increment of 1.13, followed by program management (1.02), governance (0.96), and external relations (0.90). Governance and external relations had lower increments because they had higher scores at baseline. Overall increment in third round of assessment is 66.53% from the baseline 2.20 in 2017 (Please refer to Result 4.1 for details on this.

8. Travel Update

Table 5. Travel planned and completed

Planned Travel Accomplished Traveler # of Origin- Purpose travel Trips Destination Chief of Party, 1 Kathmandu- ● To attend strategic meetings May 18-June 8, Civil Society: Washington, DC- with senior leadership, directors 2019: Bishnu Mutual Ottawa and thematic experts at FHI 360 Sapkota Accountability Washington DC Office. Project ● To attend 2019 Open Government Partnership (OGP) Global Summit in Ottawa.

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9. Activity Progress Summary

Please refer to Annex 3

10. Priorities for Next Quarter (July 1–September 30, 2019)

● Prepare the annual work plan for Year 5 through a participatory approach among CS:MAP and its partners ● Continue advocacy on strengthening the enabling environment for civil society and media from the perspective of FOA and FOE ● Conduct dialogues and discussions on laws and policy related to CSOs and media ● Continue support to local governments to develop and implement civil society and media-related laws and policies ● Promote OGP concept and principles at the national and subnational levels ● Organize interactions to promote understanding of the role of CSOs and media in democratic governance ● Finalize the video documentary on civic engagement ● Implement self-assessment toolkit in media houses ● Implement self-regulation mechanism in CSOs ● Continue coaching and mentoring of CSOs and journalists at the local level for effective advocacy and oversight ● Improve coordination and collaboration among CSOs, media, CRs, CARs, LDAGs, local government, and other stakeholders in contributing to a vibrant civil society capable of advancing the Nepali public interest ● Increase the use of social accountability tools (public hearing, social audit, public audit, CSC, public expenditure tracking, and so forth) in CS:MAP working districts ● Hold bi-annual summit to link local-level advocacy efforts with national advocacy networks/coalitions ● Organize public services delivery photo exhibit ● Conduct open houses to expose CS:MAP partners to new donors ● Increase use of existing resources and peer learning approaches 11. Success Stories

Please refer to Annex 4.

12. Challenges and Mitigation Measures

CSOs have limited access to the prioritized policies and draft bills of both federal and provincial governments. The policy formulation process has been made confidential and speedy; consequently, CSOs are having difficulty tracking policies in the pipeline, along with the priority list of upcoming laws. By the time draft bills are obtained by CSOs, they are already a step ahead in the passing process, allowing fewer opportunities for consultation and feedback by stakeholders. To obtain information, CS:MAP’s partners are therefore more engaged at informal levels with the officials of the ministries and Law Commission. Personal relations contribute to information discloser to some degree. In the specialized policy discussion platforms, CSOs are not free to invite participants beyond policy makers, members of concerned committee, and related stakeholders to discuss draft

Civil Society: Mutual Accountability Project 82 Quarterly Progress Report No. 10 April 1–June 30, 2019

bills. Such limited criteria sometimes compel CSOs to compromise on GESI factors, limiting the access of diverse communities to the consultations. CSOs share issues with the wider/diverse community in advance to get their views for the policy discussion platform. Although this process does not directly represent their voices, it somehow helps to address their concerns. CS:MAP is a project with a political nature and requires balancing political circumstances and functional relationships among CSOs and other stakeholders. In many cases, CSOs represent themselves without the hat of the project to the parliamentarians, bureaucrats, and other stakeholders for policy advocacy and further consultations. Civil society’s contribution in the nation-building process is heard at some platforms with limited acknowledgement by the politicians, bureaucrats, and community members. However, CSOs are not yet capable of declaring their contributions boldly with the support of data and evidence. Following the short study by SAP Nepal on CSOs’ contributions, NFN has been conducting a comprehensive study to justify their claim so that the government and its institutions specifically recognize this contribution. Such recognition will help support a positive image of CSOs in citizen’s minds; this image has been damaged by negative remarks by bureaucrats and politicians. CSO advocacy efforts are not scaled up at the district level and are limited in working local governments. An action plan has been made based on the ARI assessment of all CSOs and incorporated into the ARI capacity-building plan. Institutional ownership of the minimum standards for internal governance to be rolled out in all CSOs is still challenging. The CS:MAP capacity-building team has planned to support CSOs to approve the minimum standard from the General Assembly and to prepare a policy guide to implement it. ISO staff have limited capacity in policy provisions, local government policies, and federal structures and support CSOs in those areas. The CS:MAP capacity-building team coordinates with ISOs and supports exploring relevant expertise in and outside of CS:MAP.

13. Lessons Learned

Personal relations of CSO leaders with officials and informal information meetings have helped to obtain draft bills at both federal and provincial level. Good relationships with the concerned parliamentary committees and ministries can to some extent help address the concerns of CSOs and the filing of amendment notes in parliament, rather than engaging in an official approach. Given the speed and uncertainty of the policy formulation process, CSOs need to be attentive and plan dialogue on ad hoc basis at any time. In most cases, policy/bills at the federal and provincial levels are introduced without pre-plan and notice/discussion with concerned stakeholders in the Parliament/Assembly. For example, in Province no 3, the RTI bill was tabled all of a sudden and sent to the committee for further discussion. Only three days were left for amendment. Nevertheless, Freedom Forum made efforts, shared amendment recommendations, and gathered committee members for discussion. This process was very fruitful.

Civil Society: Mutual Accountability Project 83 Quarterly Progress Report No. 10 April 1–June 30, 2019

Collaborative efforts by the media and CSOs to raise public interest and policy concerns have been effective and influential at both federal and provincial levels. The institutions complement each other; i.e., one providing a critical voice and another the data and evidence. These efforts can contribute to effective results, as seen with the Media Council Bill. The government listens to its critics, to the opposition, and to public voices only when there is actual protest. This was seen with the cases of both the Guthi Bill and Media Council Bill. CSOs need to rethink and redesign their lobbying and advocacy strategy, because CSOs cannot protest in all the cases and can’t bring people on the road for every Bill tabled in the Parliament. CS:MAP visits during assessments and other programs enabled the involvement of CSO boards and senior team members. This ensured the events were meaningful and creating a higher level of commitment to implement action plans.

14. Annexes

Annex 1: Financial Report of CS:MAP (SF 425) Annex 2: Public Interest Reporting_Trained Journalists Story Details Annex 3: Activity Summary Matrix Annex 4: Success Stories

Civil Society: Mutual Accountability Project 84 Quarterly Progress Report No. 10 April 1–June 30, 2019