Implementing the Women, Peace, and Security Agenda in Nepal

Women, Peace and Security | 1 Partners of SIWPSAN project: Ministry of Peace and Reconstruction (MoPR); Ministry of Women, Children and Social Welfare (MoWCSW); Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA); Ministry of Federal Affairs and Local Development (MoFALD); Department of Women and Children (DWC); Dalit Help Society (DHS); Creative Development Society (CDS); Backward Society Education (BASE); Training Centre Nepal; Local Development Training Academy; Search for Common Ground (SFCG); IOM; UNDP; Saathi; 1325 Action Group and Krishna Consultancy.

Way Forward Implementing the Women, Peace and Security agenda

Supervision and guidance:

UN Women Search for Common Ground Sama Shrestha Dr. Bhola Prasad Dahal Krishna Bhattarai Yubakar Raj Rajkarnikar Sumiran Shrestha

Editor: Pallav Ranjan Research lead: Niresh Chapagain Research team: Rasani Shrestha, Prativa Rai Field coordinators: Balika Chaudhary, Bimala Kadayat Editorial assistants: Manisha Maharjan, Ashmi Shakya Data visualization: Saroni Shakya Page formatting: Bidhan Shrestha

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Search for Common Ground Nepal Nursery Marg, Lazimpat Kathmandu 44616, Nepal

Phone: 977-1-4002010 Email: [email protected] Web: https://www.sfcg.org

Manufactured in Kathmandu 2 | Way Forward ISBN: 978-9937-0-1734-3 Content

Executive summary 4

Commentaries Ministry of Women, Children and Social Welfare Ministry of Peace and Reconstruction Embassy of Finland UN Women Search for Common Ground

CHAPTER I Context 11 Introduction; about this report; status of women in Nepal

CHAPTER II Violence against women and girls 16 Introduction; types of violence; causes; perpetrators; impacts; potential solutions

CHAPTER III National action plan and district action plans locally 25 Introduction; relevance; five pillars; localization; achievements; actors; recommendations

CHAPTER IV Representation of women in key decision making positions 33 Overview; improvements; role of organizations; challenges; recommendations

Conclusion 38

Women, Peace and Security | 3 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

he project “Strengthening WPSAN, women who were, be- Women and Children Service TImplementation of the Women, came more aware of their rights Centers (WCSC) and Women and Peace and Security Agenda in Ne- and provisions set up to protect Children Officers of the govern- pal: Towards Implementation of and defend them. ment in project districts were National Action Plan on UNSCRs strengthened. Women at the 1325 and 1820”, funded by the Practices such as dowry, send- grassroots level became more Government of Finland, aims to ing women and girls out of the aware of their rights, provisions strengthen local level implemen- home during their menstrual cy- under the law and gender re- tation of Nepal’s National Action cle (chaupadi), polygamy, forced sponsive budgets. 65% grass- Plan (NAP) on United Nations Se- marriages (or tani bihe) were ad- roots women participated in curity Council Resolutions (UN- dressed. The number of rape cas- discussions and influenced deci- SCRs) 1325 and 1820 through in- es went down in Doti and Kaila- sions. novative strategies that promote li. In 2012, 56% of respondents women’s participation in peace, reported deterioration in health Leadership training, economic security and governance process- due to lack of care during preg- development training that 52% es. The specific objectives of the nancy, post delivery, or due to participated in over four years project area: (i) to enhance the multiple births. Four years later, and various income generation collective capability of national this figure fell to 31%. activities resulted in respondents and local level government and who made 22,000 rupees more other relevant stakeholders to SIWPSAN localized and pro- every year. 56% of female respon- implement and monitor the NAP moted the national action plan dents had become affiliated to an on UNSCRs 1325 and 1820; (ii) on UNSCRs 1325 and 1820. In institution (mothers' groups 21%, to economically and socially em- 2012, only 4% knew of the reso- women's groups 20%, and forest power conflict affected women lution whereas 47% were aware user groups 11% were most pop- and former combatants in three in 2016. 89 decisions were tak- ular). Awareness of legal provi- districts through comprehensive en by the district coordination sions grew from 25% in 2012 to assessment of their needs and committees (DCCs) that were set 75% in 2016. 23% of women affil- their operating environment, and upand half of these were put into iated to an organization reported innovative programmes; and (iii) practice. These committees coor- that they had some form of of- to enhance the leadership and dinated skill development train- ficiating role. 16% of female re- participation of women in key ing, assured scholarships to con- spondents said they were in key decision-making structures in the flict-affected families, prepared positions such as chairperson, project districts. year one and two plans, shared secretary, or treasurer. mid-term evaluation, monitored According to the study by Search as a team, published reports, and More women felt safer over a for Common Ground during the updated the list of conflict affect- period of four years, UN Wom- inception phase in 2012, and ed women. 68% of conflict affect- en through SIWPSAN project conclusionin 2016, UN Women ed households from 15 Village made tangible contribution to through the SIWPSAN project Development Committees of the women, peace and security reduced violence against wom- project districts had participated agenda. This publication details en and girls and improved their in skill development and aware- achievements, challenges and conditions. Compared to wom- ness training by 2016. opportunities going forward. en who were not covered by SI-

4 | Way Forward A message from the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Welfare

he Ministry of Women, women alliance, local NGOs and cooperation with the govern- TChildren and Social Welfare cooperatives to implement the ment counterparts. This report (MoWCSW) would like to express district and VDC-level activities. provides detailed results of the their acknowledgement and grat- SIWPSAN project along with the itude to UN Women for their MoWCSW developed four guide- findings, challenges and recom- contribution which supported lines – Monitoring, NGO, Gender mendations and will help in de- the Government of Nepal for Audit and Safe house which the signing the second phase of the the implementation of National Gender Unit of MoWCSW will NAP. Plan of Action (NPA) on UNSCRs proceed for further endorse- 1325 and 1820 in three districts ment. We would like to acknowledge (Doti, Kailali and Bajhang) of the our partnership with UN Women far west region. Strengthening The ministry is glad to share that and Search for Common Ground Implementation of the Women, the project was successful in en- in preparing this Consolidated Peace and Security Agenda in Ne- hancing collective capability at Report and would like to extend pal (SIWPSAN) project is a pilot both the national and local levels our gratefulness to other inter- project for localization of NAP on to implement and monitor the national organizations, national UNSCRs 1325 and 1820 in Nepal. NAP on UNSCRs 1325 and 1820. level agencies and organizations In addition, the project also con- at the local level for their contri- At the national level, MoWCSW tributed in developing capacity bution in the implementation of as a key implementing partner of conflict-affected women and this project. worked in close consultation former women combatants in with UN Women for the imple- three districts: Doti, Bajhang and MoWCSW is looking forward to mentation of the project at the Kailali, making them economical- contributing and is committed to district level which was carried ly and socially empowered from take forward the Women, Peace out through the Department the three-month entrepreneur- and Security agenda in Nepal. of Women and Children (DWC) ship development trainings with to facilitate and monitor imple- skills chosen by the beneficiaries. mentation. At the local level, the The project also contributed in project worked with Women and enhancing the leadership capa- Narayan Prasad Kaphle Children Officers (WCOs), District bility and participation of women Joint Secretary Coordination Committee, Local in key decision-making structures MoWCSW Peace Committee, Inter-party in the project districts through 7 November 2016

Women, Peace and Security | 5 A message from the Ministry of Peace and Reconstruction

he Government of Nepal of the cantonment of Maoist and programmatic direction and T(GoN) adopted the National -Ac combatants, implementation of linked inter-ministerial agencies tion Plan (NAP) on UNSCRs 1325 Women, Peace and Security for better coordination and co- and 1820 in February 2011. Nepal (WPS) commitments, and oper- operation to achieve results. Go- became the first country in South ation of Nepal Peace Trust Fund ing forward, MOPR will continue Asia to adopt the National Action (NPTF). dialogue with government and Plan (NAP). The NAP has been development partners for such developed through a collabora- Strengthening Implementation successful programme interven- tive multi-stakeholder process of Women Peace Security Agen- tions for large-scale replication with the leadership of the Min- da in Nepal (SIWPSAN) Project and mainstreaming into national istry of Peace and Reconstruc- has been a successful project to programmes and policies. tion (MOPR) and support of the support the Government in the 1325 action group along with the implementation of NAP on- UN I am personally very happy to United Nation and Development SCRs 1325 and 1820 in the three see this consolidated report Partners’ Consortium-Peace Sup- districts (Doti, Bajhang and Kaila- prepared by Search for Com- port Working Group (PSWG). li) of far-west region. The project mon Ground (SfCG). This will Support to the implementation has played a key role to bring be a good resource for the Gov- of NAP on UNSCR 1325 and 1820 changes in the lives of conflict ernment to share with different is also a part of Nepal Peace Trust affected women and girls, - for line agencies and development Fund (NPTF). This fund has been mer women combatants, victims actors which would support the established by the Government of violence against women. The upcoming programmes on wom- and supported by donors who project has worked with district en, peace and security agenda in- aid in Nepal’s peace process and level mechanisms like District cluding the second phase of NAP the United Nations Development Coordination Committee (DDC), on UNSCRs 1325 and 1820 which Assistance Framework (UNDAF). Local Peace Committee (LPC), will be specific to conflict related Inter-Party Women Alliance and sexual violence. The Ministry of Peace and Recon- Networks of Conflict Affected struction (MoPR) was established Groups. Finally, I would like to thank UN in April 2007 with the mandate to Women and all the partners of accomplish all the provisions of MOPR has been chairing the the SIWPSAN Project for success- the Comprehensive Peace Agree- Project Steering Committee (PSC) fully concluding the programme. ment (CPA) and responsibilities of the SIWPSAN project as well as related to reconstruction after other women, peace and security Rishi Rajbhandari conflict, relief and rehabilitation projects of UN agencies. The PSC Joint-Secretary of conflict victims, the Truth and supervised the implementation Ministry of Peace and Reconciliation and Disappear- of WPS projects and provided Reconstruction ance Commissions, management strategic guidance, policy advice 7 November 2016

6 | Way Forward A message from the Embassy of Finland

epal has been one of thereby promoting development happy to see that the project Finland’sN long term partner coun- across all sectors of the economy. has even surpassed some of tries in development coopera- Fighting inequality, exclusion and its targets. Many women have tion, with a history of more than discrimination, and promoting been able to secure leadership three decades of bilateral devel- social inclusion also diminishes positions in the decision-making opment cooperation. Finland has the risk of tension and conflict. structures at the local level, and contributed three main focus ar- Finland very much welcomed the a significant number of conflict eas over the past three years: i) UN Security Council Resolution affected women and girls are good governance and rule of law 1325 on Women, Peace and Se- reintegrated well into their fam- prevailing through reliable state curity in 2000 and issued its first ilies and societies. We hope the institutions; ii) realization of eco- own National Action Plan for its lessons learnt and recommenda- nomic, social and cultural rights implementation in 2008. tions of the project will help the within the context of economic Government of Nepal to formu- empowerment and adequate As part of the National Action late its future action plans, and service delivery; and iii) natural Plan (NAP), Finland expanded its be of use to other organizations resource management contrib- support in Nepal by collaborat- that are actively working and uting to rural livelihoods and ing in the area of Women, Peace planning to work in the Women health through inclusive green and Security. Finland supported Peace and Security agenda. economy. Nepal’s National Action Plan for UNSCRs 1325 and 1820 through We would like to congratulate The rights of women and girls are funding to the Nepal Peace Trust the Ministry of Women, Children an important priority for Finland. Fund and the UN Women project and Social Welfare, UN Women A particular concern is women SIWPSAN, with a special empha- and all its partners, specially the and girls who live with the men- sis to localization of the NAP. The Search for Common Ground, for tal trauma and physical conse- goal of the SIWPSAN project was the accomplishments made in quences brought about by con- to enhance the leadership capac- this project and for commission- flict and violence, often including ity and participation of women in ing this study. We are committed conflict related sexual violence. peace, security and governance to continue our support to the In Nepal, many former women processes at the local level in the Government of Nepal in its ef- combatants were not success- far western region. The project forts in the area of women, peace fully integrated into the army thus provided capacity develop- and security. Finally, wish all the after the conflict and were also ment support to the Government success for the development and not able to fully integrate back and to the target groups as well implementation of Nepal’s - sec into their communities and fami- as skills and enterprise devel- ond National Action Plan. lies. These socio-cultural barriers opment support to the conflict and stigma made them double affected women and girls from victims in society, as concerns the selected village development for instance employment and committees. Jorma Suvanto the justice system. Finland be- Ambassador lieves that enhancing the rights This report presents major prog- The Embassy of Finland and status of women and girls ress and accomplishments in Kathmandu strengthens society as a whole, achieving the set goal. We are 8 November 2016

Women, Peace and Security | 7 A message from UN Women

ollowing the signing of the Recommendation 30 that calls The independent assessment FComprehensive Peace Agree- for national action and reporting report by Search for Common ment (CPA), the Government of on women in conflict prevention, Ground (SFCG), shows that ben- Nepal (GoN) in February 2011 de- conflict and post-conflict situa- eficiaries have been empowered veloped and subsequently began tions, with reference to Sustain- socially and economically as a implementation of the National able Development Goals (SDGs) result of project interventions, Action Plan (NAP) on United Na- 5 and 16; Beijing Declaration and that district-level stakeholders tions Security Council Resolu- Platform for Action; Universal have been capacitated in local- tions (UNSCRs) 1325 and 1820 Periodic Reviews on Nepal; the izing the NAP and monitoring on Women, Peace and Security 2015 UN Secretary General’s Re- its implementation, and that (WPS) 2011 - 2016. The mid- port on Conflict-Related Sexual there has been an increase in year monitoring report of the Violence; the 2015 Global Study the number of women leaders in National Action Plan recognises on the Implementation of UNSCR decision-making positions at the the development of the NAP in 1325; and the Secretary Gener- local level. Likewise, awareness Nepal as a global best practice. It al’s Seven Point Action Plan on of legal rights and provisions for was drafted through a transpar- Peacebuilding. women and girls, including sur- ent, inclusive and participatory vivors of violence, has increased process with close involvement The UN Women project “Stre- significantly since 2012. In addi- of conflict victims, civil society ngthening Implementation of tion, former women combatants organizations, UN agencies and the Women, Peace and Security from the project districts have development partners. Adoption Agenda in Nepal Towards Imple- been able to reintegrate into so- of the NAP was accompanied by mentation of the National Action ciety more fully as a result of the funding for NAP implementa- Plan on United Nations Security Strengthening Implementation tion projects, through the Nepal Council Resolutions 1325 and of the Women, Peace and Secu- Peace Trust Fund (NPTF) as well 1820” was generously funded rity Agenda in Nepal (SIWPSAN) as the UN Peace Fund Nepal (UN- by the Government of Finland. project interventions. PFN) and the UN Peacebuilding The project has strengthened lo- Fund. cal-level implementation of the Significant progress has been NAP on UNSCRs 1325 (2000) and achieved under each of the NAP’s UN Women Nepal Country Of- 1820 (2008) through innovative five pillars. The media played an fice (NCO) programming on WPS strategies that promoted wom- important role in the promotion is guided by a series of commit- en’s participation in peace, secu- of women's issues and the wom- ments to women’s human rights. rity and governance and devel- en, peace and security agen- These include UNSCR 1325 and oped collective capacities of the da. Government officials in the seven succeeding UNSCRs - 1820, Ministry of Women, Children and project districts enhanced their 1888, 1889, 1960, 2106, 2122 Social Welfare (MWCSW) and knowledge through the devel- and 2242. Other key reference Coordination Committees at the opment of a common agenda instruments are the Convention national and local levels to im- on district priorities for gender, on the Elimination of All Forms plement and monitor the Nation- and increased mainstreaming of Discrimination against Wom- al Action Plan (NAP) on UNSCRs of the WPS agenda in local de- en, particularly its recent General 1325 and 1820. velopment. Additional progress

8 | Way Forward includes the avoidance of dupli- Accomplishing these significant cation and the effective utiliza- achievements would not have tion of resources for gender, as been possible without the sup- well as the institutionalization of port and efforts put forth by part- a sharing and review forum for ner organizations of the SIWPSAN integrated planning on gender Project - the Ministry of Peace priorities. and Reconstruction (MoPR), the Ministry of Women, Children and This consolidated report reflects Social Welfare (MWCSW), the the project’s success in strength- Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA), ening the capacity of women to the Ministry of Federal Affairs and lead and actively participate in Local Development (MoFALD), decision-making at the local lev- the Department of Women and el in the Far West Region. It also Children (DWC), the Dalit Help highlights the project’s use of in- Society (DHS), the Creative De- novative strategies to promote velopment Society (CDS), Back- women’s participation in peace, ward Society Education (BASE), security and governance pro- Training Centre Nepal, the Local cesses as a means to implement- Development Training Academy, ing the National Action Plan on the International Organization UNSCRs 1325 and 1820. This re- for Migration (IOM), the United port includes major findings and Nations Development Program recommendations for effective (UNDP), Saathi, the 1325 Action implementation of the Women, Group, and Krishna Consultancy. Peace and Security agenda and therefore can also be used as a Finally, UN Women wishes to reference for other organizations thank the Government of Fin- working in this arena. land for its generous support and partnership in the successful im- We would like to acknowledge plementation of this project. our partnership with Search for Common Ground (SFCG) since 2012. SFCG facilitated the development of the baseline survey, including its situation analysis Ms. Wenny Kusuma and stakeholder mapping, and Representative has contributed in the M&E ca- UN Women Nepal pacity building of partner organi- 8 November 2016 zations.

Women, Peace and Security | 9 A message from Search for Common Ground

earch for Common Ground analysis, and carrying out stake- – DME&A Manager, Niresh Cha- S(SFCG) is a leading international holder mapping, baseline/ end- pagain; DM&E Associate Coordi- peacebuilding and conflict trans- line survey of SIWPSAN project. nator, Rasani Shrestha and Proj- formation non-governmental or- We have been able to contribute ect Coordinator, Prativa Rai – for ganization (NGO), working in 36 in achieving the goal of SIWPSAN successfully carrying out the re- countries across Africa, Asia, and project and scale up our experi- search on four topics and prepar- the Middle East. SFCG strives to ence of working in the women, ing individual research reports in transform the way that the world peace and security agenda. addition to publishing IEC mate- deals with conflicts away from rials. Moreover, I am thankful to adversarial approaches and to- SFCG DME&A department man- Communications Coordinator, wards collaborative solutions. aged this project and produced Ayush Joshi for his support in Through various multi-faceted different IEC materials to raise preparing and finalizing IEC ma- approaches, media initiatives awareness about women’s is- terials and case studies. Similarly, and collaboration with local part- sues and provisions introduced I would like to extend my grati- ners, and both government and by the government of Nepal with tude towards the Field Coordina- civil society, SFCG aims to find a commitment to National Action tors Balika Chaudhary and Bimala culturally appropriate means to Plan for Women Peace and Se- Kadayat, and the partner organi- strengthen the capacity of so- curity (UNSCR 1325 and 1820). zations – Backward Society Edu- ciety to deal with conflict in a SFCG took a lead carrying out cation (BASE), Dalit Help Society constructive manner – by under- research on four topics to cap- (DHS) and Creative Development standing differences and acting ture the changes that have taken Society (CDS) of UN Women for on commonalities. place within target groups of the assisting in managing the trip project – conflict affected wom- and meetings with people at the SFCG has been working in Nepal en, former women combatants grassroots level and stakehold- since February 2006 and has col- and survivors of violence against ers. Moreover, I would like to laborated with a broad range of women. Three research activities thank Pallav Ranjan, the Chair of stakeholders, including govern- were qualitative and one quanti- Spiny Babbler Knowledge Center ment and non-government orga- tative. Qualitative research topics for preparing and publishing the nizations, media, education, jus- were localization of the National consolidated report. tice, and security institutions to Action Plan, representation of support peace, good governance women in key decision making I would like to use this platform and solution-oriented approach- positions and underlying causes to thank the Ministry of Women, es to conflict resolution at the of Violence against Women. The Children and Social Welfare, and local, regional and national lev- quantitative survey was ‘Status Ministry of Peace and Recon- els. Currently SFCG works in 15 of conflict affected women.’ This struction for their support and districts with 20 partner NGOs, consolidated report brings read- participation in making this proj- 13 FM stations and government ers closer to the findings of the ect a success. In addition, I would line agencies from its Kathmandu research, challenges and recom- also like to express my gratitude and two regional offices (Janak- mendations. to UN Women for this opportuni- pur and Butwal) with 40 staff. ty to contribute in the WPS agen- I would like to acknowledge the da. The partnership of SFCG and UN Director of Programs, Yubakar Women has been of a unique Raj Rajkarnikar for ensuring the I look forward to continuing our nature since 2012. We gained quality of the products and effec- partnership in the future and experience and knowledge in ar- tive supervision and would like contributing to the WPS agenda. eas such as women, peace and to acknowledge the DME&A de- security and capacity building partment for taking a lead in this Dr. Bhola Prasad Dahal through this partnership. SFCG is project. I would like to thank and Country Director – Nepal pleased to contribute to situation congratulate the research team 3 November 2016

10 | Way Forward Chapter I: CONTEXT UN Security Council Resolutions 1325 and 1820; National Action Plan; Far-west Nepal; about SIWPSAN; 2016 survey; this document

1.1 Introduction action plan on UNSCRs 1325 and en and girls and works to pre- 1820. In February 2011 this was vent the violation of these rights 1.1.1 United Nations security achieved “as a result of an inclu- during conflict and post-conflict council resolutions (UNSCRs) sive and transparent process.”2 periods. The third pillar, promo- 1325 and 1820: UNSCR 1325 was Developed through a collaboration, highlights the rights of wom- designed to increase women’s tive multi-stakeholder process, en and girls while mainstreaming participation in security, peace, the overall objective of the NAP gender perspectives through all and governance in conflict and is to contribute to durable peace phases and stages of the conflict post-conflict zones around the and a just society. Its five pillars transformation and peace build- world. This is a landmark inter- are participation; protection and ing process. The objective of the national legal framework that prevention; promotion of rights; fourth pillar, relief and recovery, addresses the inordinate impact relief and recovery; and resource is to address the special needs of of war on women, pivotal role mobilization, monitoring and women and girls and to ensure and actions women should take evaluation. These pillars include their participation in the formu- in conflict management, con- 59 actions that are collaborative lation and implementation of all flict resolution, and sustainable with the government, devel- programs related to relief and peace. Resolution 1820 recog- opment partners, UN agencies recovery. The objective of the nizes sexual violence as a tactic (including UN Women), the civil final pillar, resource mobilization of war and asserts the Security society, women’s networks, and and monitoring and evaluation, Council’s responsibility in im- other participating organizations. is to guarantee the means and proving the UN’s prevention and The Ministry of Peace and Recon- resources required to implement protection response to these struction is the leading agency NAP, to institutionalize the mon- atrocities. Subsequently, six reso- for coordination, development, itoring and evaluation system, lutions have been adopted by the and implementation of the na- and to maintain collaboration United Nations Security Council tional action plan.3 The govern- and coordination with concerned under the women, peace and ment of Nepal established the stakeholders. security agenda. Another import- Nepal Peace Trust Fund (NPTF) ant instrument in this fight is the in 2007 as a mechanism for inter- 1.1.4 The far-west region of Ne- Convention on Elimination of all ested donors to contribute to the pal: The far-west region of Ne- forms of Discrimination Against peace process. pal, where this study took place, Women (CEDAW). CEDAW en- covers 19,539 sq km. The region riches the interpretation and im- 1.1.3 Areas of concentration: has a population of 2,552,517 plementation of UNSCR 1325 by The national action plan has five and is divided into nine districts. providing operational guidance pillars, or areas of concentration. Far-west Nepal has a literacy rate while UNSCR 1325 broadens the The first pillar,participation , aims of 66% – male 79% and female scope of CEDAW by enabling its to ensure equal, proportional 55% illustrating how women and application to non-actors.1 and meaningful participation of girls are at a disadvantage. Ag- women at every decision-making riculture is the main source of 1.1.2 National Action Plan level of conflict transformation livelihood and households head- (NAP): The government of Ne- and peace building. The second ed by women have increased pal became the first country in pillar, protection and prevention, from 14% to 25% over a decade South Asia to adopt a national aims to protect the rights of wom- (2001 to 2011). According to the

Essential definitions have been taken from www.un.org 1 UNIFEM: CEDAW and Security Council Resolution 1325: A Quick Guide. 2 Mapping Progress on Women’s Rights in Nepal. UN Women. December 2014. 3 Need Assessment: Nepal National Action Plan on 1325 and 1820. Safer World. March 2012. Women, Peace and Security | 11 national human development pal, Local Development Training trict; Kadamandau and Sanagaun report of 2014, the far-west re- Academy, Search for Common in Doti district; and Rittapatha gion ranks fourth amongst five Ground (SFCG), IOM, UNDP, and Subeda in Bajhang district. development regions in Nepal Saathi, 1325 Action Group and Geta village development com- in the human development in- Krishna Consultancy. mittee of Kailali, which was not dex (with a rating of 0.435). The covered by the project, was used area was severely affected by 1.2 About this report as a control group. the decade-long armed conflict that started in 1996 and ended 1.2.1 Introduction. A baseline 1.2.2 Quantitative research. in 2006. 1,558 people were killed study was conducted by Search Random sampling formula with in the region, 6,758 displaced, 60 for Common Ground (SFCG) for 95% confidence level and ±5.0% went missing, and 65 were dis- UN Women and SIWPSAN in (0.05) precision level was used. abled. The Terai conflict has also 2012. The study covered under- Multi-stage sampling identified affected the region. Women and lying causes of gender inequali- number of respondents and rep- girls were primary victims of both ty, violence against women and resented the total population. conflicts. girls, and pathways to address A list of all households in each these. A similar study was con- village development committee 1.1.5 SIWPSAN and its work in ducted in 2016 to assess updated was obtained, intervals and di- the three districts of far-west situations and changes affected visions calculated, and the first Nepal: UN Women Nepal im- by the four-year SIWPSAN and household selected through lot- plemented “Strengthening Im- women, peace, and security ef- tery with following interviews plementation of the Women, forts. Based on the earlier study, taking place in a sequential man- Peace and Security Agenda in research was expanded to better ner. A total of 1,158 respondent Nepal (SIWPSAN): Towards Im- analyze the situation of women samples were collected. Two plementation of NAP on UNSCRs and girls, levels of change, im- thirds of the respondents were 1325 and 1820.” The four-year pacts on perception, lives, and female and one third male. A project promoted women’s par- the conditions of women and questionnaire was structured ticipation in peace, security and girls. Quantitative research, qual- using semi-closed, yes-no log- governance processes targeting itative research, case studies, ical, Likert scale, and narrative conflict-affected women and and information gathering from answer leading questions. One girls, former women combatants secondary sources were compo- expert research personnel was and other vulnerable groups of nents of the study. Questions on assigned per district to assure women, local women political “how” were addressed through structure, integrity, and quality of leaders, and women’s groups quantitative data while “why” data. 18 local enumerators – two among others. The project sup- was addressed using qualitative per village development commit- ported by the Government of data and triangulation and com- tee – with inherent knowledge Finland was implemented in Ba- pared to assure balance. Conflict of local geography, culture, sen- jhang, Doti and Kailali districts affected women, female ex-com- sitivities, and language were as- of far-west Nepal in partnership batants, victims of violence signed. Training-coaching took with the Ministry of Peace and against women and girls and place for three experts and six Reconstruction (MoPR), Ministry survivors; Inter Party Women Al- supervisors in Kathmandu. Rap- of Women, Children and Social liance (IPWN) members; district port building, presentation of Welfare (MoWCSW), Ministry of coordination committee (DCC) questions in an acceptable man- Home Affairs (MoHA), Ministry members; district and village ner, handling sensitive sex and of Federal Affairs and Local De- development committee repre- gender related topics, and eth- velopment (MoFALD), Depart- sentatives; security and women ics of research were covered. ment of Women and Children and child center officers were a The team was field-tested and a (DWC), Dalit Help Society (DHS), part of the study. The study was two-day orientation organized at Creative Development Society carried out in six SIWPSAN active the district level with a one-day (CDS), Backward Society Educa- village development committees: field test. Information gathering: tion (BASE), Training Centre- Ne Masuriya and Lamki in Kailali dis- tablets were made available to

12 | Way Forward Activities Undertaken

Tools Participants Kailali Doti Bajhang Key Informant Interview (KII) CDO, LDO, WCO, LPC Coordinator, Women and 6 5 5 Children Service Centre, program coordinator, local leader, VDC secretary, DCC member Women and Children Service Centre, DCC mem- 4 4 4 ber, WCO CDO, LDO, WCO, LPC coordinator, Women and 5 5 4 Children Service Centre, program coordinator, local leader, VDC secretary, and DCC member Focus Group Discussion (FGD) IPWN 1 - - Conflict affected women, former combatants, 7 7 6 IPWN, men’s groups and mixed gender groups, VAW survivors Conflict affected women, former women com- 3 3 1 batants, men, women, IPWN members, mixed community and survivors of VAW Participatory tool (CLIP) Conflict affected women and men’s groups - - 1 Participatory tool (Level of Conflict affected women and men’s groups - - 1 understanding) Participatory tool Mixed community members 1 - - (Network of trust)

researchers to upload real-time impacted (treatment group) and triangulation and understanding data through droid survey soft- those that are not (control group) of project interventions, achieve- ware. GPS (global positioning were studied. ments, causes, consequenc- system) mapping showed exact es, best practices, and solu- locations where data was collect- 1.2.3 Qualitative research. Qual- tions. Conflict affected women, ed. Data processing took place itative research verified or con- ex-combatants, victims of sexual using SPSS (Statistical Package tested quantitative responses and gender violence, local ser- for Social Science) and organized used to triangulate data. Net- vice providers, including advoca- data exported to MS Access. De- work dynamics and CLIP meth- cy organization representatives scriptive analysis was backed ods created case studies and and activists, were a part of the up through non-parametric and change studies. Key information five FGDs conducted in each dis- parametric analysis, for example interviews (KIIs) involved service trict. Participatory social analysis chi-square, to assure goodness providers, government represen- tools such as network dynamics of fit and independency. ANOVA tatives, Women and Children’s were used to assess trust. CLIP (analysis of variance) was used to Service Centers, key civil society analysis: conflict/collaboration, determine significant differences actors, hospitals and health cen- legitimacy, interest and power between the means of three or ters, and individuals and private study looked at positives and more independent groups.4 Data institutions whose work impact- negatives. 42 KIIs, 28 focus group analysis: desegregation took ed project clients. Chief district discussions and 4 participatory place as per geographic location, officers, local development- of tool focus events were carried gender, respondent types as in ficers, security chiefs, women out. 230 persons participated, conflict-affected women, advo- and children officers, leaders of 72% were female and 28% male cates, women victims of gender not-for-profit organizations, and 13% were Dalit, 26% Janajati, based violence, ethnicity, advan- heads of political wings were in- 18% Tharu, and 43% Brahmin or taged and disadvantages castes, terviewed. Focus group discus- Chettri. and age. Information on those sion (FGD) helped quantitative

4 Laerd, statistical-guides. One-way-anova-statistical-guide.php. Lund Research Ltd. 2013.

Women, Peace and Security | 13 1.3 Status of women in Nepal

1.3.1 Introduction.Nepal is a pa- thematic committees. Peace Re- CEDAW. As per a survey report triarchal society. Men dominate search Institute, Oslo, however, Women’s Political Participation, decision-making at the house- argues that there is limited space Empowerment and Inclusion in hold, village, district, regional, for women in Nepalese politics. Nepal, only 6% women (12 out and national levels. Census 2011 Both male and female constitu- of 205) were elected members of shows only 19% female land-own- ent assembly members say deci- parliament through the general ers. During ten years of civil war, sions continue to be made by a elections of 2000. In 2006, when 1996 to 2006, women were a handful of senior and high‐caste the comprehensive peace accord part of the armed conflict in large male leaders and women’s op- was signed, 33% female candida- numbers: they were involved as portunities within the political cy was ensured for constituent victims, militia, party cadres, and parties are determined on the assembly elections. When the in- supporters. More than 17,000 basis of their loyalty and kinship terim parliament was formed on people lost their lives while more to leaders rather than their capa- 15 January 2007, 57 of 330 rep- than 300,000 people were dis- bility or performance.7 resentatives were female. 30% placed. Women’s participation in of the constituent assembly was political movements appears to 1.3.3 Women and the constitu- female in 20138. At the district be increasing, their role in crucial tion of Nepal: The constitution level, however, only 3% women areas of decision-making needs of Nepal, 2072, ensures wom- play leadership roles with most improvement, especially while en’s right to participate propor- leadership involvement at the establishing peace and transition. tionately throughout all national student organization level. At the Nepalese women, rural women apparatus. The president and central level, political represen- in particular, lag far behind men vice-president are to be of differ- tation of women is 29%.9 There- in such participation. Daughters ent gender and community (arti- fore, while clear improvements are discriminated against and do cle 70). The cabinet shall uphold have taken place at the national not receive equal opportunity in the principle of inclusion (article level, local level participation terms of education, healthcare, 76-9). Proportional election can- needs significant change. economy, and politics. Despite didacy of women, Dalit, indige- the efforts of the government, nous and ethnic groups (article 1.3.5 Women’s participation in non-governmental organizations, 84-2) is required. The president local government: Nepal has and other actors, there is a long shall nominate three members to made gradual progress in wom- way to go.5 the national assembly of whom en’s participation in the local at least one shall be a woman (ar- government through the local 1.3.2 Women and the constit- ticle 86-2 v). Either chair or the self-governance act 1999. 20% uent assembly: Globally, Nepal vice-chair of the national assem- women’s representation at the has the fourteenth highest rep- bly shall be female (article 91-2). ward and village development resentation of women in the One-third of members elected committee level is ensured.10 legislature. 191 women (33.2% to provincial assemblies shall be Their involvement was to be in of the total) were elected to the women (article 176 -9). Either village development planning, constituent assembly and six speaker or the vice-speaker of monitoring and resource mobi- women became members of the provincial assemblies shall be fe- lization. However, war and po- cabinet. These was due to man- male (article 182-2). litical transition has meant that datory seats reserved for women local government has not been by the interim constitution of Ne- 1.3.4 Political status of women functional for 14 years. Civil ser- pal, 2007.6 While writing the new in Nepal: Women have the right vants administered local bodies constitution, women were rep- to vote and stand for elections. with negligible women’s partici- resented in each of the eleven In 1991, the government ratified pation until the local governance

5 Mahat, Ishara; Women Development in Nepal; The Myth of Empowerment, Nepal; 2003. 6 Inter-Parliamentary Union; Women in Parliament in 2008 The Year in Perspective, Nepal; 2009. 7 Falch, Åshild; Peace Research Institute Oslo; Women’s Political Participation and Influence in Post‐Conflict Burundi and Nepal; 2010. 8 The Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars; Women Leading Public Service and Political Participation in South Asia; 2014. 9 Renaissance Society Nepal, Women’s Political Participation, Empowerment and Inclusions in Nepal; Nepal; 2009. 10 www.adb.org; Nepal Chorus, women's voices makes a difference influencing local government spending

14 | Way Forward and community development estry program guidelines require implementation, and evaluation program created an inclusive a woman to be the chairperson or of proposed projects and pro- structure in 2010. Ward citizen secretary. While men have 55% grams. Gender equality and eq- forums and community aware- literacy rate, for women the rate uity are important components. ness centers have a minimum is 30%14 with 40% male and 18% Women have leadership roles in of 33% women participating. female Nepalese population hav- development and the civil soci- The program has helped fill the ing some secondary education. ety movements in Nepal. gap women’s involvement in lo- Recent figures show gender par- cal processes in the absence of ity in school enrolment has been 1.3.9 Women in health and elected local bodies.11 achieved but girls in remote or sports. The civil code act stip- low income quintile tend to drop ulates legal age of marriage as 1.3.6 Women, economics, and out of school. Only 45% of grade 20, 18 in case of parental con- agriculture: According to gen- 10 students from public/commu- sent. Early marriage, underage der development index (GDI), nity schools passed the school pregnancy and delivery impact socio-economic conditions for leaving certificate examination. the health of women and girls Nepalese women are worse than Awareness and education can and have been perceived as a for other South Asian women.12 improve the situation of women cause of violence against wom- Women’s number in professional and girls. en and girls. Hygiene and sani- occupations is one-fifth that of tation practices have improved men. 40% women are economi- 1.3.8 Women in development with awareness related to toilets cally active but many are unpaid and civil society. Following the and availability of basic medica- family workers involved in subsis- fourth world conference on tion and family planning options. tence agriculture.13 Equal prop- women held in Beijing in Sep- Nepalese women have intense erty rights for women have not tember 1995, the government and heavy workloads. They materialized and lack of access established the Ministry of Wom- have not been able to take part to productive assets such as land en and Social Welfare to champi- in sports and fitness activities and working capital holds them on women’s issues. The ministry adequately. In 2011, four girls back. Lack of training, education, works to strengthen advocacy, climbed Annapurna IV (7,525 m) and technology; poor working coordination, and support for while Gaurika Singh from Nepal conditions; trade unions’ neglect women. Its three objectives are: was the youngest participant at of women’s problems; risk to per- mainstreaming gender, eliminat- the Rio Olympics. Most schools sonal security and sexual harass- ing gender inequality, and em- offer sports once a week or none ment; limited mobility and mar- powering women.15 The Social at all. Sunatalia was a film based ket access; and low incomes need Welfare Council coordinates in- on a true story of football-play- to be tackled. Nepal Rural Credit ternational and national developing girls from Mugu, among the Review Study by Nepal Rastra ment cooperation and gender is poorest districts of Nepal, who Bank revealed 35% female-head- stressed during the formulation, went on to win a national tour- ed households borrowed money Participation of Women from other high interest sources with only 15% borrowing from le- galized institutional sources.

1.3.7 Women in education and environment. VDC grant guidelines of community forestry development program and Ministry of Health and Population institution management guidelines require 33% women members in all committees. The community for-

11 ADB Nepal: A Chorus of Women’s Voices Makes a Difference – Influencing Local Government Spending; 2015 12 GDI is prepared by using gender equal distribution of indices of life expectancy, educational attainment, and income. 13 Asian Development Bank, Country Briefing Paper: Women in Nepal. 14 NESAC Nepal South Asia Centre, Nepal Human Development Report; 1998. 15 Nepal Ministry of Women and Social Welfare, Ninth Five –Year Plan Approach Paper, 1998. Women, Peace and Security | 15 Chapter II: VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN AND GIRLS in Bajhang, Doti, and Kailali: districts of far-west Nepal nament. 2.1 Introduction cle (chaupadi), polygamy, forced awareness of UNSCRs 1325 and UN Women implemented Stre- marriages (or tani bihe) are in the 1820 and NAP was non-existent. ngthening Implementation of wane but still prevalent. Number the Women, Peace and Security of rape cases has gone down in The comprehensive peace accord Agenda in Nepal (SIWPSAN) as Doti and Kailali with more wom- signed by the seven party alliance a four-year project in Bajhang, en and girls prone to speak out and United Communist Party of Doti, and Kailali districts of far- against such crimes. Nepal-Maoist in 2005 prohibit- west Nepal. Women and girls ed gender-based violence and across the world face physical, During years of conflict, sexual specified rights of women and sexual, and psychological vio- violence against women and girls children. The gender equality act lence, but such violence in the was widespread. They suffered was passed in 2006 and 56 dis- far-west region of Nepal has at the hands of government se- criminatory provisions of various been compounded by a decade curity forces as well as Maoist previous acts were repealed or long civil war (1996 to 2006) and rebels. More than 1,000 women amended. The human trafficking the recent Terai conflict. 2,348 reported rape and abductions; act was enacted in 2007 and the cases of violence against women 137 women went missing; and national safe motherhood plan were recorded in 2013, in 2014 917 were killed. 46% of women (2002-2017) recognizes violence the number increased to 3,534 and girls aged 15-24 reported against women as an import- cases. SIWPSAN and UN Wom- that they had experienced sex- ant issue confronting women’s en worked to reduce violence ual violence. Save the Children health. Nepal health-sector im- against women and girls and im- Norway reported that 19% of plementation plan (2010-2015) prove their conditions through female sex workers were pushed included gender based violence national action plans (NAPs) for- into the trade as a direct result of care as an integral component mulated under United Nations the conflict. The baseline survey of health care and established Security Council Resolutions that was conducted by Search protocols for the management (UNSCRs) 1325 and 1820. Com- for Common Ground in 2012 in of such violence. The constitu- pared to women who were not far-west Nepal showed that vio- tion of Nepal ensures women covered by SIWPSAN, women lence against women was wide- and girls the right to protection who were became more aware ly prevalent in all three districts, against physical, psychological, of their rights and provisions set conflict affected families had not and sexual violence and declares up to protect and defend them. received support to which they such acts punishable by law. It Practices such as dowry, send- were entitled, awareness of spe- incorporates a separate article ing women and girls out of the cial provisions and rights of wom- recognizing fundamental rights home during their menstrual cy- en and girls was very low, and of women.

16 | Way Forward 2.2 Types of violence against women and girls in Bajhang, Doti, and Kailali

Women of the three districts and security activities were im- 2.2.3 Traditional practices: With where SIWPSAN was implement- plemented, 2016 figures show a couple of thousand years of ed suffer various types of vio- physical violence is perceived to history, Nepal is a nation of tradi- lence. While physical abuse, psy- be down and women are more tion and heritage some of which chological abuse, and trafficking willing to discuss their situation. is detrimental to the well-being are prevalent around the world, 52% in Kailali, 39% in Doti, and of women and girls. Dowry de- some types of violence are spe- 44% in Bajhang believed they suf- mands in the form of cash, jew- cific to the region such as tradi- fered physical violence. elry, vehicle, land, furniture, and tional socio-cultural practices more – even after marriage – can and tani bihe or marriages that 2.2.2 Psychological violence: result in severe consequences, do not give women partners or Misbehavior and use of obscene including sending the bride out their families a choice. language targeted towards wom- of the home, killing her, burning en was believed to be 62% of the her alive, poisoning her, acid at- 2.2.1 Physical violence: Women abuse in 2012 and 73% in 201616. tacks, and victimizing her. 11% talked about marital rape, rape “These kinds of violence, though of women identified dowry as a by members of the family while commonplace, is not at the causes of violence against wom- husbands were abroad working, forefront of our conversations en. In 2012, 44% felt child mar- and rape by outsiders when they as women take verbal abuse as riage caused violence against went to collect grass and fodder normal and do not even consider women and girls. Beliefs related in the forest. Physical violence is it a form of violence,” a woman to witches and other forms of prevalent to the level that some from Bajhang said. According to superstition also lead to violence of the women did not question it: the National Coalition Against against women and girls. a Rana Tharu woman from Geta Domestic Violence of USA, “Psy- village said, “Husbands have the chological abuse involves trauma 2.2.4 Tani Bihe and polygamy: right to beat wives if she is at to the victim caused by verbal The culture of taking, or kidnap- fault.” A Pahade hill woman con- abuse, acts, threats of acts, or ping, girls or women (whether tested this statement, “It is not coercive tactics. Perpetrators use married or not) and forcing them right for a husband or anyone to psychological abuse to control, into marriage without their con- beat a woman.” In 2012, 72% of terrorize, and denigrate their vic- sent was part of Bajhang district’s the participants of Kailali, 26% tims. It frequently occurs prior to culture. “Ten to twelve year old of Doti, and 61% of Bajhang indi- or concurrently with physical or girls have become victims of such cated they had suffered physical sexual abuse.” ‘marriage’ practices.” called tani violence. After women, peace bihe, this form of marriage is still said to be followed in isolated communities. Tharu women of Types of Violence Kailali say polygamy is common in their community. 70% of participants at a focus group discussion agreed polygamy can be interpreted as a sign of better status, greater access to labor, dowry, and expanded family networks. In far-west Nepal, almost 66% adolescent girls from poor families married before 18, while 9% of all girls are married before the age of 14 years.

16 All figures quoted from 2012 or 2016, unless specified, are sourced from SFCG surveys.

Women, Peace and Security | 17 2.3 Causes of violence against women and girls in Bajhang, Doti, and Kailali

SFCG surveys show that a major- my mother-in-law for spending ates, she can be turned out of the ity of respondents (52%) believe a long time outside the house,” house and there is more reason lack of education and awareness said a Masuriya woman. In to commit violence against her. If as the main reason for violence her late sixties, another said, she has access to resources, she against women and girls. 45% “Daughter-in-laws spend more can fight back against any form of said superstitious beliefs were time outside the home partici- violence,” a woman in Sanagaun, the cause for violence and 39% pating in these types of events. Doti, said. In Masuriya, a vic- felt the patriarchal system was to This hampers education of chil- tim of violence explained, “I see blame. New technologies and so- dren, household and farm work, women with property respected cial media, poverty, unfavorable and impacts income and nutri- by the family and by the society.” traditional practices, alcohol and tion.” Aware women are treated drugs were also major causes cit- the same as before by the family 2.3.3 New technologies and the ed. and the society it was claimed. social media. The perception is that social media is increasing 2.3.1 Lack of education and 2.3.2 Limited access to resourc- sex related crimes against wom- awareness: 46% identified lack es. Most resources in Nepal are en and girls. A participant in Lam- of education as the main cause controlled by men. “Within the ki said, “People make friends and of violence against women and household, men decide how and establish relationships outside of girls. The Dalit community is well where to spend the income or marriage.” Access to pornogra- behind in terms of education and what to do with the property,” phy, including abusive material such violence occurs more fre- was the general agreement in Ba- is easy. Activities that are violent quently within this community. jhang. 5% said women in decision are propagated online as normal “Education empowers women making positions could reduce and acceptable. “In the case of and helps them fight violence. It gender based violence in 2012, a man taking on a second wife, makes the male population re- in 2016, the figure rose to 12%. the first wife goes through - psy sponsive,” commented a wom- “Women cannot defend them- chological, economic, and even an from Lamki. “I have come to selves because they do not have physical violence. In the case of participate in this discussion but the resources and they do not a woman leaving, children also I worry that I will be scolded by make the decisions. If she retali- become victims.” The BBC - cit

Causes of violence against women in different districts Number of respondants

18 | Way Forward "We are is restricted as is their income lengthy, hard to understand, and taught to generation ability,” was one com- perceived as ineffective, victims ment. Another was that “We are reluctant to seek justice,” a tolerate pain are taught to tolerate pain and police officer from women’s cell remain silent from childhood. in Masuriya said. A woman from We are taught to consider our Bajhang commented, “A child and remain husband a god and are taught to who was married into my com- be submissive and obedient gen- munity was physically assaulted silent from eration after generation.” A local on a regular basis until she died. leader added, “Not fighting back The mother-in-law was impris- chilhood." or fighting back ineffectively mo- oned for two years. Is this jus- tivates the perpetrator to con- tice?” Another added, “A father ed “Take Back the Tech!” cam- tinue and even increase acts of raped his daughter. After ten paign: abusive SMS messages violence.” Chaupadi, child mar- years in prison he will come back to tracking movement through riage, and tani bihe marriages to the same house to live with geo-location; intimate partner continue. 45% in 2012 and 35% the mother and child. This is un- violence – threats of disclosure in 2016 saw traditional practices safe.” Weak and ineffective laws of intimate communication or as a cause for violence against were identified as the main rea- “revenge porn” – technology has women and girls. son for violence against women been used to lure women into and girls by 27% of respondents situations that result in rape or 2.3.6 Alcohol and drugs related from Doti. other forms of violence. abuse. Alcohol is linked to ag- gression by men against women 2.3.8 Poverty. In 2016, 30% of re- 2.3.4 Lack of influence. Families and children. Portrayal in mov- spondents believed poverty was are patriarchal and even estab- ies of men resorting to alcohol a cause of violence against wom- lished women in the household during times of difficulty and dis- en and girls. Poor economic con- are not necessarily aware or satisfaction compound the prob- ditions mean the community as tolerant of women’s rights that lem. “Men come home drunk a whole has difficulty becoming challenge authority. Young wom- and start fighting over small is- educated and aware. “Conditions en, in particular new brides of sues like salt in the food and beat result in child marriages. Girls the family, are expected to take their wives,” said a woman from are married early because that on much of household, farm, and Rithapatha. In Geta, participants way the family has to pay less other responsibilities. Violence believed that violence against dowry,” explained a police per- against women takes place from women and girls is more common sonnel working for the women’s generation to generation. A -for among Rana Tharu indigenous cell. Being married into a well- mer rebel said, “The culture of group and they face higher levels to-do family creates more pres- discrimination or carrying out and frequency of violence. Drug sure. The woman and her family violence against women is es- usage is developing as a problem accept violence to maintain the tablished.” A local leader from in communities across Nepal. Re- marriage. Loss of social standing Sanagaun agreed, “Women do search finds 25% to 50% of those and upkeep of children are con- not achieve their potential.” who perpetrate domestic abuse siderations. A former People’s Only 3% of women in Kailali felt have been drinking at the time of Liberation Army combatant said that they had taken on a deci- assault, although in some studies in Masuriya, “A rich family in a sion-making role in 2012 and this the figure is as high as 73%.17 neighboring village had their number rose to 7% in 2016. daughter-in-law do all the heavy 2.3.7 Weak implementation of household work. She also faced 2.3.5 Unfavorable social practic- laws. Nepal has criminalized vi- regular violence. She could nei- es. “Women are limited within olence against women and girls ther react nor tolerate the situa- the household, their movement but “because legal processes are tion, she committed suicide.”

17 Foster, Jon. “Alcohol, domestic abuse, and sexual assault.” Institute of Alcohol Studies. 2014. UK.

Women, Peace and Security | 19 2.4 Perpetrators of violence against women and girls in Bajhang, Doti, and Kailali

Women and girls can often be her daughter-in-law, “Does not parental consent or due to their unsafe in their own homes and respect me the way I used to re- pressure. In South Asia this figure neighborhoods. Those charged spect my mother-in-law. She is was more than 31.3 million and with protecting them, such as rude and hurtful to me. My life in the sub-Saharan Africa it was husbands and their family, wom- has become very difficult as I do more than 14.1 million.18 In India, en in the household, her parents, not have any other options. I am more than 5,000 brides die annu- the community and the state can old and dependent on my fami- ally because their dowries are fail to protect them, victimize ly.” A former combatant felt, “Vi- considered insufficient....19 them and have been found to put olence perpetrated by women on them in criminal hands. Regional women has been out of focus. I do 2.4.4 Neighbors play a role by and international demands for not believe the status of violence spreading rumors and criticiz- sex slaves; globalization, social against women by women has ing women and not preventing media, easy access to sexual and improved.” Such violence takes psychological as well as physical abusive material; conflicts and various forms such as chaupadi, violence in their neighborhoods. war create an unsafe existence which force women (during men- They may target criticism and for women and girls. struation and childbirth) to live in abuse towards women and girls. a shed, isolating them from safe- Revenge, property, disputes, or 2.4.1 Men. Because most re- ty, sanitation, and support – 36% just disturbing other households sources are controlled by men, of women believed the chaupa- can be reasons. “They exagger- women do not feel they have di system is a form of violence ate, misinterpret and create con- the ability or the opportunity to against women and girls. Events flict within the family. I am here reject violence, raise their voic- that change family structures talking to men at this focus group es, or demand their rights. Vio- were highlighted, “When women discussion, they will tell my hus- lence perpetrated by men has choose to marry already married band and in-laws that I want to decreased while awareness of men, the first wife faces serious spend time with men,” said a legal provisions have gone up issues as do her children.” woman in Masuriya. from from 23% in 2012 to 74% in 2015. According to a former 2.4.3 Family members can be 2.4.5 Criminal elements, includ- combatant in Masuriya, “Nowa- perpetrators of violence as they ing organized crime rackets, are days, if a woman goes through vi- extract money or property in the involved in trafficking, prostitu- olence perpetrated by men, they form of dowry, exploit women, tion, slavery and entertainment tend to report the case to the cause psychological violence, be- businesses that abuse women police.” But a lot more needs to come bystanders and mute wit- and girls. More than 640,000 be done, a man at the same dis- nesses of atrocities, or directly in- women and girls are trafficked cussion said, “There would be no flict physical harm. Families have across international borders - ev violence if women remained si- been known to deprive women ery year, and there are more lent.” Another man from Rithap- and girls and their offspring of women and girls that are traf- atha was even more graphic, he nutrition, education, access, and ficked within national borders. added without any qualms, “If a independence. Parents can force More than 7,000 Nepali girls, as woman raises her voice, we will women and girls to be married young as 9 years old, are sold ev- raise our hands.” or prevent them from gaining ery year into India’s red-light dis- education and skills. Movement tricts: altogether 200,000 in the 2.4.2 Women. Those who have and financial barriers are put in last decade.20 Better awareness power of authority, seniority, or place and are hard to overcome. and education can help improve property over other women per- Over 60 million girls worldwide the situation. However, the in- petrate violence against women are married before the age of 18 volvement of families, friends, and girls. A mother-in-law said every year, most of them with neighbors and others close to 18 www.endvawnow.org 19 Mayell, Hillary. “Thousands of women killed for family honor.” National Geographic. USA. 2002. 20 Timalsena, Krishna Ram Dr. “Cross border human trafficking in Nepal.” National Law College news. www.nalcnepal.com. Nepal. 2012. 20 | Way Forward women and girls in criminal activities makes them vulnerable as these are the people that they trust the most.

2.4.6 Cultural, religious, and other practices. For thousands of years, women have been seen as inferiors and communities, cultures and religions have fostered this belief and encouraged the exploitation of women and girls. Men migrate for work while women take care of the home, children, parents, in-laws and generate indirect income. In 2012, 52% of respondents said women were limited to household work and this caused depen- most of the atrocities take place of leadership development train- dency and violence. By 2016 the during the time of conflict. 29% ing. figure came down to 36% indicat- of respondents had participated ing women’s role had diversified. in training related to UNSCRs by 2.4.9 Regional and global trends. Women took on work including 2016 and professed greater un- Sex trafficking and slavery, cross heavy lifting or jobs that can be derstanding of women, peace continental marriages, a rise in hazardous. While such jobs do and security through training inappropriate and damaging not require education, they have provided by UN Women and oth- material online, and other re- an impact on women’s physical er WPS related bodies. gional and global trends impact and mental health. women and girls in the districts 2.4.8 State level issues. 134 of Bajhang, Doti, and Kailali. Of- 2.4.7 Conflict and war. Nepal countries, including Nepal, say ten isolated and independent, faced ten years of Maoist war that women, by law, must be indigenous communities are not from 1996 to 2006. Women who treated fairly, and have laws that equipped to deal with organized, were suspected of being Maoists protect them. However, they are economically enticing, and new or those who supported Mao- not effective while living up to situations they have not encoun- ists faced violence even as reb- these commitments: during peri- tered previously. Social media els perpetrated serious crimes ods of conflict, state mechanisms led crime has increased global- against women and girls. The Te- may be involved in perpetrating ly. Containment of trafficking of rai movement compounded the violence against women and women and girls for sex slavery, problem with racial and ethnic girls. Women and girls continue use as child brides, domestic vi- divides causing discrimination, to suffer emotionally, physically, olence and other violence costs abuse, and victimization of wom- and socially in the aftermath of the US government over $1.7 en based on their hill or Terai war. Women in Bajhang, Doti, trillion a year according to figures origins. While the comprehen- and Kailali suffer because laws released by the Global Peace In- sive peace accord made room and regulations that protect dex in 2014. Such costs were 10% for better protection of women them are not implemented ade- of the gross domestic product and girls, such agreements are quately. 15% of respondents felt in 2004 according to the World reached post war and during laws were weak. 30% of respon- Health Organization. the peace building process while dents said they have been a part

Women, Peace and Security | 21 2.5 Impacts of violence against women and girls in Bajhang, Doti, and Kailali

Women and girls suffer physical- such as underage marriage have may face severe consequences of ly, psychologically, socially, edu- caused deaths, miscarriages, un- this abuse. 73% reported use of cationally, and economically due safe abortions, premature births, obscene language had decreased to violence perpetrated against and other reproductive health over the past four years. them. Some have lost their faces problems. Sex selective abor- to acid attacks, some have been tion is reported to be common 2.5.3 Social and educational: burned alive, some have been in some communities. 75% of Women of all three districts did admitted to mental institutions, respondents expressed lack of not want to reveal family issues some live as slaves within fami- knowledge of legal protection in in the community as they feared lies and some women have lost 2012. This figure fell to 26% in discrimination. “The victim does their lives. 2016. not want to be around people whose idle-talk is their personal 2.5.1 Physical: Beatings, torture, 2.5.2 Psychological: Constant suffering,” a woman said in Ba- and other forms of abuse and vi- monitoring, unfair accusations, jhang. Both families of victims olence has resulted in disability isolation from friends and fam- and perpetrators try to work to- and other health complications. ily, prevention of economic or wards reconciliation even when A woman from Bajhang shared, educational activities, expres- criminal activities are involved. “I feel like jumping into the Seti sion of anger in frightening ways, Girls end up missing school and river when I am beaten by my economic control, humiliation in college. 30% of women from Doti husband.” 72% of respondents front of others, threats to self or did not know about legal sup- in Kailali acknowledged physical loved ones, threat to harm them- port while another 30% said they abuse in their locality in 2012 selves, controls over choices, and could only access support with – the figure fell to 20% in 2016. neglect are some forms of psy- the help of others. 52% partici- Physical health is also impact- chological abuse. 17% of women pated in some form of training ed by social practices. “Shelters respondents in Kailali said they over four years, 16% felt wom- women have to live in as per the were not involved in organiza- en did not have the same quali- chaupadi tradition are unclean tions because they were not al- fications as men, while 57% felt and not constructed well,” said lowed to do so by their families. women were inactive or not giv- women from Bajhang. “Wom- 41% said this was because they en opportunities. en have died from snake bites. had too much household work. We have been raped and sexu- Some forms of psychological 2.5.4 Economic: Violence against ally abused as we stay in such abuse are taken as normal in so- women closes the door for eco- shelters on our own.” Practices cieties even though the victim nomic empowerment. Women can contribute less income when Perceived impacts of violence against women in Kailali they go through violence or discrimination because of physical suffering as well as negative psychological impacts. Lack of access, inability to participate in skill-development opportunities, lack of financial support aimed towards increasing her financial viability and independence keep women behind and have far-reaching consequences for her offspring as well. There was a 28% growth in participation in

22 | Way Forward training among conflict afflicted girls face violence. Lack of med- vention, this figure fell to 31%. households. 13% participated in ical care and nutrition means Family health, education, and leadership and 20% in economic mothers who are unhealthy or safety were affected. Children training (with 7% becoming in- sources of infection resulting in who have been a part of violence volved in income generation ac- unhealthy children. 56% of re- in the family internalize violence tivities as a result). spondents reported deteriora- and replicate similar behavior tion in health due to lack of care later on in life as perpetrators or 2.5.5 Children and family: Chil- during pregnancy, post deliv- victims. Entire households and dren in the family suffer grave ery, or due to multiple births in their young as well as old are im- consequences when women and 2012. After four years of inter- pacted.

2.6 Potential solutionsto violence against women and girls in Bajhang, Doti, and Kailali

Suggestions from the grassroots, ries shared and replicated and them change their lives. As long from decision makers, and from training, workshops, seminars as they feel that they cannot step observers reveal awareness and stepped up. Men need to be en- out of their homes because they education that sensitize the pop- gaged as in Sanogaun. “There do not have money to go any- ulation as most important. So- needs to be an environment of where, situations wherein they cial empowerment, economic understanding between husband cannot sustain themselves, it will empowerment, an enabling and and wife and other family mem- be hard to stand up to and fight supportive environment, securi- bers. An environment of trust against violence. ty, and legal support have been has to be built.” Girls need to be pointed out as essential to re- enrolled in schools and informal 2.6.3 Social empowerment. ducing and eradicating violence technical education introduced. Women need a stronger pres- against women and girls. ence and a society that will 2.6.2 Economic empowerment. support them as they seek jus- 2.6.1 Awareness and education Along with education and aware- tice and fundamental rights. have been identified as primary ness, women need financial abili- Cross-sectoral engagement is activities for all age groups. 43% ty to stand on their own feet and required and men need to be of respondents felt women were help their families and communi- involved in designing, planning denied education and awareness ties. 40% said they made enough and implementing activities that due to their gender in 2012. This or struggled to have a meal a tackle violence against women figure fell to 30% in 2016 with day in 2012, 31% said they made and girls. Women’s networks and 84% reporting that this form of enough for two meals while 24% groups have worked effective- discrimination was decreasing. had enough for clothes and ed- ly to decrease violence against Awareness that impacts attitudes ucation with only 5% reporting women and girls in the districts. and behaviors as well as knowl- that they were able to save mon- 56% of female respondents said edge was deemed necessary. ey. Participation in income gener- they were affiliated to such an in- Causes of violence against wom- ation training increased from 9% stitution (mothers’ groups 21%, en and girls and the associated to 19% between 2012 and 2016. women’s groups 20%, and for- actors and perpetrators need Respondents said they make est user groups 11% were most to be studied. Victims/potential 22,000 rupees more every year popular). Women from Masuri- victims need to be involved and after training. Entrepreneurial ya have shown that when wom- prioritized based on greatest skills, income generating abilities en work in a united manner it need for knowledge. Communi- and education, greater move- is possible to decrease violence ties that have started to work to- ment to earn, capacity to find against women and girls. Police wards controlling violence need markets for their produce, and personnel from Women and Chil- to be strengthened; success sto- sustainable enterprises can help dren Service Center in Bajhang

Women, Peace and Security | 23 Suggested solutions to issues proposed by grassroots women

said that women’s networks and Center work to improve the envi- services like health care and facil- groups have reported violence ronment, therefore, they need to ities for children.” against women and girls in dis- be strengthened. tant and remote places. “These 2.6.6 Security. Five out of 100 networks are wide and trusted 2.6.5 Legal support. Awareness women felt unsafe when outside by women,” they said. of legal provisions has grown of their homes. Police presence from 25% in 2012 to 75% in is needed in hard to reach areas. 2.6.4 Enabling environment. 2016. 29% were confident that Working in close coordination Women are taking on wider roles. they could access legal support with women’s groups and net- 52% reported healthy participa- on their own, 17% did not know works, the police can work with tion in public events in 2012, this the processes involved, and 29% the community and improve re- figure has grown to 65% in 2016. felt they could only access help lationships. Those unsafe in their 23% of women affiliated to an through others. Government or- own homes and communities ex- organization reported that they ganizations and service provid- pressed concern regarding safety had some form of officiating role ers should be held accountable and status of victims when they while 68% said they were mem- for the implementation of laws. have to continue living with per- bers. In order to increase access Participants of all three districts petrators (after returning from of victims to services, counsel- agreed that implementation of protection or when perpetrator ing, legal provisions, and justice, laws and policies is poor. Those is released from custody). 50% stakeholders need to create an convicted of crimes against wom- found authorities responsive and enabling environment. Schools, en and children do not return to helpful; 24% of those who went government services, enterpris- the community corrected, they to authorities believed authori- es, entertainment media and said, and punishment is not pro- ties to be unhelpful or unwilling; other aspects of the society need portionate to crimes committed. 26% felt they took too much time to be friendly towards women Safe houses are needed to pro- to respond to their calls for help. and girls and support them as vide shelter to victims. Respon- Immediate support is required in they seek to live in a violence free dents are more satisfied with order to ensure victim’s security world. Programs need to be initi- Women and Children Service in such cases. Participants at a fo- ated so service seekers are aware Centers: “There have been only cus group discussion in Bajhang of government organizations and one or two repetition of violence illustrated their point: a girl raped service providers. Women and in cases handled by the center. by her father and her mother will girls need support as they seek to They help victims prepare doc- have to live with the father once recover from an already traumat- umentation, write applications, he is released from prison. The ic experience. Agencies such as collect effective evidence, and community needs assurance as the Women and Children Service fight against perpetrators of vio- regards their security. lence. Those in safe houses need

24 | Way Forward Chapter III: LOCALIZATION of the national action plan on UNSCRs 1325 and 1820

3.1 Introduction of women at grassroots and dis- sions under the law, and the gen- trict levels increased. Each of the der responsive budget with 75% Nepal was the first country in national action plan’s five pillars of respondents stating that they South Asia to adopt a national were strengthened. Safe houses were aware of legal provisions. action plan on UNSCRs 1325 and came into action. Women and Bodies such as IPWN coordinate 1820 through “... an inclusive and Children Service Centers (WCSCs) with stakeholders and women’s transparent process,”21 using a helped victims of violence with networks and groups to take for- multi-stakeholder approach and the help of the police. The media ward the WPS agenda in a sus- collaboration. NAP aims to con- played an important role in the tainable manner. tribute to durable peace and a promotion of the women, peace just society. Ministry of Peace and security agenda. Women’s and Reconstruction is the leading networks and groups were pro- 3.2 Relevance of the agency for coordination, develop- moted. 49% more women be- national action plan ment, and implementation of the came aware of legal provisions national action plan.22 SIWPSAN related to their rights. In 2012, 43% female respondents worked to help localize and pro- said they were not aware of their mote the national action plan on Former women combatants legal rights. In 2016, 90% said that UNSCRs 1325 and 1820. District said that they were able to re- they were aware. In Dhangadi, coordination committees (DCCs) integrate into the society due the comment was, “The nation- were setup and collaborated SIWPSAN’s interventions. A -ver al action plan is relevant. Wom- with other government agencies, ifiable mechanism was devel- en’s participation has increased civil society organizations and oped for resource mobilization and they are raising their voices. related institutions and individ- and monitoring. Project districts District coordination committee uals to mainstream the women, introduced monitoring tools to members and other stakeholders peace and security agenda into observe target groups. Conflict are held accountable.” local level annual plans. affected women in project VDCs became regular invitees to plan- 3.2.1 NAP involved women in District action plans were formed ning meetings and were aware general and marginalized com- and village level plans integrat- of government funds allocated munities in particular. During ed priorities. District coordina- to address their needs. Collab- interviews, representatives of tion committees helped skill oration fostered by the project IPWN, partner organizations, the development, helped distribute helped avoid duplication of ac- civil society, and political leaders scholarship to conflict-affect- tivities and replication of suc- said they witnessed women who ed families, prepared year one cesses. IPWN ensured women’s were previously absent partic- and two plans, shared mid-term needs were factored in during ipate, speak out, plan, and im- evaluation findings among civil the planning process and repre- plement activities. “Women of society members, monitored as sented women at the grassroots Bajhang did not speak out, they a team, published reports, and to assure plans were implement- now openly put forward their updated the list of conflict affected while lobbying for and mobi- thoughts on violence against ed women. 68% conflict affected lizing a gender responsive budget women and girls,” a local peace households and 52% of female (GRB). The women, peace and committee coordinator said. The respondents had participated in security agenda became more national action plan and UNSCRs skill development and awareness sustainable, grassroots women 1325 and 1820 have been ex- training by 2016. Participation more aware of their rights, provi- plained at the district and grass-

21 Mapping Progress on Women’s Rights in Nepal. UN Women. December 2014. 22 Need Assessment: Nepal National Action Plan on 1325 and 1820. Safer World. March 2012. Women, Peace and Security | 25 roots level. They have learned 3.2.3 DCC forms a bridge. “Quar- of the guidelines requires gen- about how district actions plans terly meetings are organized by der equality and social inclusion incorporate and feed the national district coordination committees during planning and implementa- action plan and how village level to bring together government tion processes; article 5 states at planning supports district action and non-government agencies. least two of 10 members of the plans. 65% women participat- They help plan, remove dupli- VDC-level monitoring committee ed in discussions and influenced cation, encourage replication of must be women; and the mu- decisions made at the grassroots success stories, create synergy, nicipality level monitoring com- level. 4% of conflict affected and take forward joint efforts.” mittee must have three female women were aware of UNSCRs District administration office members out of 11. The district 1325 and 1820 in 2012, 47% said (DAO) works for the relief and re- development committee is pre- they were aware in 2016. covery of crimes against women paring a five-year plan for wider victims while local peace com- local development targeting WPS 3.2.2 National action plan was mittees work to update data and using bottom-up planning. Data integrated into the district plan- verify the status of conflict affect- related to the status of women, ning process. Monitoring mech- ed women. NGOs work with sim- peace, and security, needs and anisms and the effectiveness of ilar objectives. A DCC member gaps were identified to make the NAP was discussed at DCC meet- from Kailali said, “UN Women plan effective. ings. Beneficiaries played the took us to Kyrgyzstan where we role of auditors to ensure activi- saw first-hand how the nation- 3.2.5 District specific policies ties related to women, peace and al action plan can be localized. have been implemented. Over security were present in village Workshops on UNSCRs 1325 the past two years, 11 district development committee plans. and 1820, sexual violence, sex- coordination committee meet- Women not in decision-making ual harassment, representation ings in Bajhang, 17 in Doti and positions at the local level and of women in the justice sector, 13 in Kailali have taken place. in ward citizen forums became policies on sexual violence were A total of 89 decisions made at coordinators and members. 16% organized.” 52% of respondents these district level meetings in- of female respondents said they participated in women, peace fluenced localized policies. In- were in key positions such as and security related efforts and clusive participation progressed chairperson, secretary, or trea- 29% participated in UNSCRs 1325 in joint monitoring committees, surer in organizations. Of 12 lo- and 1820 related training. a common agenda on district cal structures, women were in priorities, mainstreaming of the decision making positions in 4.3 3.2.4 Ministry of Federal Affairs WPS agenda in local develop- in 2016 (the figure being 1.56 in and Local Development provid- ment, avoidance of duplication, 2012). 90% of respondents felt ed gender responsive guidelines optimum utilization of resources, violence against women and girls with significant provisions to sharing and review of challenges had decreased. “Women’s net- support the women, peace and and lessons learned. “Based on works and groups were not pres- security agenda. The guidelines the national action plan, district ent. Networks formed within the stipulate that women’s networks action plans were prepared and last two years have shown tangi- must be included in the planning 82% of decisions implemented at ble output,” women and children process at the village develop- the district level,” reported wom- officer of Bajhang said. “Hard-to- ment committee level; integrated en and children officer Sabina reach areas have been targeted. planning committee at the mu- Shrestha of Doti. Planning at the This is where change is needed nicipality level must have at least VDC level with participation of the most.” two women members; article 3 the chief district officer, the local development officer, civil society Have you heard about the 2012 2016 representatives and concerned stakeholders took place. national action plan? N % N % Yes 31 4% 292 34% No 695 96% 576 66% Total 7260 100& 868 100%

26 | Way Forward 3.3 Review of the NAP pillars

3.3.1 Participation: SIWPSAN enables the better handling of combatants in communities. UN- aimed to help ensure equal, pro- cases with child care provided SCRs 1325 and 1820 have led to portional, and meaningful partic- through coordination with other greater discussion, interaction, ipation of women in every deci- organizations. Sub-inspector of acceptance, and collaboration on sion-making level of the conflict Dhangadi said, “After computer women’s rights. Systematic con- transformation and peace build- training, we digitized available straints leading to delays in distri- ing process. Of 12 local structures data and analyzed it to discover bution of relief material hindered in place, crimes against women trends related to violence against recovery. “Conflict affected wom- was represented in less than two women and girls.” en proposed identity cards as in 2012. By 2013 the number some still have not received relief went up to four. Representation 3.3.3 Promotion: The media pro- material. Out of 1,205 conflict af- of those who suffered crimes moted the WPS agenda though fected women only 311 had re- against women, former women they were not primary stake- ceived relief packages from the combatants and victims of vio- holders of SIWPSAN. In 2012, government,” Surendra Bhatta, lence had increased from 52% only 3% women reported having local peace committee coordi- to 88% by 2015. Participation heard about UNSCRs 1325 and nator of Doti, said. “The chief increased with 74% female re- 1820 but by 2016, 93% reported district officer, president of Cre- spondents saying that they were awareness of the resolutions and ative Development Society and I affiliated to women’s groups, 58% awareness of the five pillars had to sit for a meeting to tackle mothers’ group, ward citizen fo- of the national action plan. 47% randomized distribution of relief rums, or forest user group. At this said they had heard of them on material. We presented a report time, women in forward-thinking the radio and 47% through events at a regional summit to expedite mixed communities are more and meetings. Women’s groups recovery.” engaged in the decision-making and networks were effective in process than women in homoge- promoting the women, peace 3.3.5 Resource mobilization and nous communities. and security agenda and provid- monitoring: Project districts in- ed platforms for interaction and troduced monitoring tools to 3.3.2 Protection and prevention: discussion. “This effort has been ensure active participation of SIWPSAN helped strengthen safe partnership based. IPWN orga- women including those affect- houses in Bajhang and the Wom- nized classes on UNSCRs 1325 ed by conflict and women from en and Children Service Centers and 1820 at schools and coop- disadvantaged or dalit commu- in all three project districts. 23% eratives, WOREC worked to de- nities. Historically, participation female respondents were aware crease suicide rates among wom- of women at the policy level has of women’s security, laws and en and girls, while the local police been negligible. Local peace com- legal provisions in 2012, in 2016, verified data.” A vice-chairperson mittee coordinator for Bajhang the figure rose to 70%. In 2012, of a center working to reduce explains, “Women are involved 19 out of 100 women reported crimes against women in Bajhang in monitoring and evaluation domestic violence, only 5 out of said, “I used to consider myself a of DCC members, the SIWPSAN 100 women felt safe in their com- victim of the war and felt ignored project, and organizations work- munities, 15% of domestic vio- by the government. Now that I ing on UNSCRs 1325 and 1820.” lence victims did not share their am aware of the provisions made Activities that increased -owner experience with family members, available to us, I feel empowered. ship took place. District coordina- and 9% of those reported such I can try and influence decisions tion committees reported every cases. “Women and Children Ser- in our favor.” quarter and shared key achieve- vice Centers (WCSCs) are trust- ments, gaps and challenges. This ed and women make use of safe 3.3.4 Relief and recovery: Social led to synergy and improved the houses,” safe house in-charge in and economic empowerment is localization process of the na- Dhangadi said. Coordination be- key to reintegration of conflict -af tional action plan. “The chief dis- tween WCSCs and safe houses fected women and former female trict officer and the superinten-

Women, Peace and Security | 27 dent of police went on field visits bers. Author of Peace, Develop- which is lobbying for a minimum and gathered information on ment and Our Rights, Surendra set aside of 10% of the village de- conflict affected women; teams, Bhatta, is also the local peace velopment committee budget for including those at the village committee coordinator of Doti. women. However, it is important development committee level, “My book shares information that women and children officers monitored specific activities and particularly with the Ministry of be provided greater impact roles ensured better quality and im- Peace and Reconciliation on how rather than supporting roles.” pact,” Dev Bahadur Khadka, VDC coordination between district Secretary of Sanagaun, said. development committee and lo- 3.4.3 Incorporation of target cal peace committee takes place, group opinions. A Kailali district how forums work to remove du- development committee mem- 3.4 NAP at the plication and how they replicate ber said, “Information from the local level processes. It explains how joint grassroots lead to planning at the planning, implementation, and district and national levels and 3.4.1 Participation and coordina- monitoring that involve issues re- changed discussion on key topics tion.IPWN members in Dhangadi lated to conflict affected women because a bottom-up approach said, “Conflict affected women in is taking place.” was used.” Surendra Bhatta, LPC all SIWPSAN covered village de- coordinator, Doti, said, “Many velopment committees are pres- 3.4.2 Improved role of wom- women aware of plans at the ent at every planning meeting.” en and children officers. WCOs village development committee Sabina Shrestha, women and come into contact with women want ambitious achievements children officer of Doti reported, and girls who need help, con- because they are unaware of “Issues related to conflict affect- tribute to awareness, economic budget constraints.” Dev Baha- ed women listed by all five village empowerment, and coordinate dur Khadka, village development development committees are activities related to district ac- committee secretary of Doti, reviewed when making district tion plans based on the nation- said, “This knowledge gap be- action plans.” District coordina- al action plan and UNSCRs 1325 tween ambitions and constraints tion committee members review and 1820. They helped assess need to be bridged to increase the plan to foster collaboration, needs of conflict affected wom- satisfaction among women. avoid duplication and increase en, formed conflict affected Women list problems and priori- leverage. Plans prepared by the women’s groups and provided tize solutions. We have a budget- VDC are reviewed by a commit- skill-based training. They helped ary constraint of Rs. 25,000 this tee chaired by the chief district connect conflict affected wom- year and they do not understand officer, district development en to other organizations and why we cannot build the meet- committees inform others when coordinated, documented meeting hall and organize additional making action plans, share such ings and forwarded information skill-based training they asked plans, and review progress. Up- to appropriate bodies. Sabina for.” Budget allocation related dates are sent to relevant gov- Shrestha, acting women and chil- knowledge was higher among ernment line agencies, civil so- dren officer of Doti, said, “Our women in SIWPSAN covered dis- ciety organizations and district improved role has allowed us to tricts. They were able to lobby for development committee mem- support organizations like IPWN more funds and presented logical

Review of the NAP pillars Pillar 1: In 2012, active participation, influencing decisions and presenting ideas on the WPS agenda Participation was 52% among women which increased to 88% in 2016. Pillar 2: 23% female respondents were aware of women’s security, laws and legal provisions Protection and prevention in 2012, in 2016 the figure rose to 70%. Pillar 3: In 2012, only 3% women reported having heard about UNSCRs 1325 and 1820 but by 2016, Promotion 93% reported awareness of the resolutions and 58% about the five pillars of the NAP. Pillar 4: Out of 1,205 conflict affected women only 311 had received relief packages Relief and Recovery from the government.+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Pillar 5: Resource Mobilization, Various monitoring teams, including those at the VDC level, have been formed to Monitoring and Evaluation monitor specific activities and to ensure quality and impact.

28 | Way Forward "She was 3.5 Activities related to localization of NAP 3.5.1 Economics. “Victims are together to organize events and asked if her now capable of saying why they activities that built harmony and are entitled to government sup- encouraged peaceful methods of shop sold port. Women earn for the family protest. This has been an amaz- and have more say in the house- ing transition for us.” Nirmala hold. Their mobility has im- Rijal, president of IPWN, said guns and proved,” Sabina Shrestha, WCO radio stations picked up on this of Doti, reports. “I feel that con- event and broadcasted news on bullets." flict affected women, survivors how people worked together to of violence, and single women build peace and security in the have become role models in the far-west. plans. Women and children offi- community,” Sabitra Acharya, cer of Bajhang said, “Although previously a combatant, said. 3.5.2 Gender responsive bud- problems of women were identi- “SIWPSAN provided training with get. GRB was introduced “to fied through bottom up planning, seed grants and IEC material that ensure Nepal government and the solutions process was not helped enterprises get off to a donors take into account wom- equally accessible to women.” good start. Since I am econom- en’s perspective in budgets and ically empowered now, people taxation...”23 IPWN members of 3.4.4 SIWPSAN exit strategy. treat me differently and my re- Kailali were involved in the pro- Functionality of district coordi- gard in the society has increased. cess of collecting women’s needs nation committees, empower- I tell others how important it is and listing possible activities ment of women and children to be economically able.” Aware- and programs that responded to officers, strengthening of local ness, economic improvement, these needs during planning and and grassroots partners, imple- communication, and coordina- implementation phases. “Pro- mentation of ministry of federal tion, has helped former women posals were written to initiate ac- affairs and local development combatants become productive tivities such as campaign against district development committees members within their communi- chaupadi.” By 2016, 62% of re- policy guidelines that prioritiz- ties. spondents agreed that the prac- es women, peace and security tice of chaupadi had decreased. have set the stage for UN Wom- 3.5.2 Integration of former com- “We learned about district-level en to handover specific sectors batants. Rejection of former budget allocation and available or concentrate on areas that re- combatants by communities was funds. We met the women and quire intervention. Planning has a primary problem SIWPSAN children officer to learn how gen- been effective with implemen- faced when in the beginning. der responsive budget could be tation needing greater attention. Women combatants were per- used.” Sustainability of district action ceived as a problem by the com- plans was part of SIWPSAN exit munity. When a former combat- 3.5.3 Auditing of the gender strategy with district coordina- ant opened a shop with the help responsive budget has been tion committees being active of SIWPSAN, she was asked if she carried out. Difficulties in incor- proponents of the WPS agenda. sold guns and bullets. The situ- porating needs of women due The DCC in Kailali is preparing ation is different now. 53 out of to bureaucratic complications, a five-year plan to address the 100 excombatants feel secure lack of human resource, and the needs of women and is looking within their communities. “Dis- lack of system that works with at improvements, “Women come trict action plans have helped priorities were overcome and up with similar programs every unite women from different po- awareness on GRBs increased year. We are presenting innova- litical ideologies. During the cur- due to SIWPSAN. Government tive program samples so they can few in Kailali, women from the agencies in the districts learned target high impact efforts. opposing political parties came how to improve performance.

23 ‘A study on Gender Responsive Budgeting.’ A joint publication of Ministry of Education, UNESCO and UNICEF. 2010.

Women, Peace and Security | 29 DDC program officer, Dhangadi, benefits them? This is why train- trict level agencies and NGOs. said, “Women and their needs ing and samples of innovative Women actively participated were not focused upon in budget ideas are necessary.” in youth networks, women’s plans of the past. While the pres- groups, mothers’ groups, forest ent budget is not perfect, more 3.5.5 Resource tapping by a few users’ committee, tole user com- effort has been put in and mon- select women. A mechanism is mittee, NGOs, school manage- itoring by organizations such as needed so women with greatest ment committees, local security IPWN have made women more needs gain access to services and committee, interparty women’s conscious. Aspirations of women resources in all three SIWPSAN network, and political parties. In were documented and there is districts. A limited group of 2012, such affiliation was 20%, in greater ownership.” women, most of whom are well 2016, it was 74%. All these activ- to do, are participating in avail- ities cover the WPS agenda that 3.5.4 Gaps in project implemen- able programs. “Attention needs helps sustain project goals. 3.4.4 tation. While both project plan- to be focused on whether the exit strategy also addresses sus- ning and implementation have right women are asking for and tainability, please refer. been effective, district level co- benefitting from the gender re- ordination with government, civil sponsive budget. I see mostly the society and community organi- same few active women lobbying 3.6 Challenges zations and individuals present for gender responsive funds,” a challenges. IPWN focus group program officer commented. In 3.6.1 Integrated planning. The discussion in Masuriya revealed Bajhang, women-friendly struc- WPS agenda is incorporated in difficulty while ensuring alloca- tures like birthing centers and the guidelines prepared by the tion of gender responsive bud- bathing spaces have been built ministry of federal affairs and lo- gets. “We had to notify the sec- and benefit all local women. It cal development for district de- retary that we would lock down is important to involve marginal- velopment committees and cov- the municipality if our voices ized women beyond those who ered by the district action plan were not considered,” women are already vocal and active. preparation process. The wom- in Kailali said. “It is difficult to en and children officer and the lobby and make ourselves heard 3.5.6 Sustainability of the WPS district development committee without IPWN’s help.” Challeng- agenda. Women at the district need to integrate their planning es vary according to culture, tra- level, village development com- as they formulate plans separate- dition, geography, remoteness, mittee level and grassroots level ly. economic condition, education became aware. Women under- and exposure. District develop- stood gender responsive bud- 3.6.2 Realistic expectations re- ment committee program officer gets, fund sourcing, and where garding funds allocated to wom- in Dhangadi said, “Sometimes to access funds from. IPWN en. Availability of funds and women are not even aware coordinated with stakeholders expectations and ambitions of of their needs or how to best at the district level. Women’s women do not match. This cre- achieve solutions, in these cases groups, mother’s groups, forest ated difficulties for village devel- how will the gender responsive user groups, and others involved opment committees. Awareness budget be used in a manner that women and coordinate with dis- related to gender responsive

When you heard about national action plan, Male Female Total what kind of message did you get? N % N % N % UNSCRs 1325 and 1820 related message 18 95% 211 77% 229 78% NAP pillar related mesage 5 26% 104 38% 109 37% Service and facility related to CAW 11 58% 162 59% 173 59% Rights and provisions related to CAW 7 37% 187 68% 194 66% Other 0 0% 12 4% 12 4% Total 19 273 292 100%

30 | Way Forward "Fund limita- tion must be explained."

3.6.7 Focus during DCC meetings. The district coordination committee secretary needs to share the agenda of a meeting clearly. Comments received by the secretary should be addressed and included. Meetings need to be brought back in track when discussions diverge.

3.6.8 Prioritizing grassroots levels: Mobilizing members of IPWN as local activists, sharing plans finalized at district level with people at the grassroots, proper need assessment based on traditional occupations and interests, utilizing existing groups and local structures formed by the WCO to budgets, the amounts available, to brought into the project fold in implement the programs related their purpose, and limitations order to assure those who need to women, peace and security and the reasons behind them benefits the most are covered. can help reinforce the bottom up needs explanation. approach. 3.6.5 Getting relief packages 3.6.3 Confusion regarding the to all conflict affected women. 3.6.9 Needs, solutions, and chal- WPS agenda: At the district and Some women access services lenges collected at the grassroots grassroots level, stakeholders multiple times while some never are finalized by the National believe efforts towards women, gain access. Especially margin- Planning Commission at the na- peace and security will end with alized women and women from tional level. Therefore, district the withdrawal of UN Women. remote communities are at a dis- coordination committees need to A clear message need to be de- advantage. A database of women inform respective ministries and livered regarding how this effort who have received relief packag- their departments about local will be led by the government es can help achieve a fairer distri- priorities in order to make - bot and other stakeholders when SI- bution of relief material. tom up planning successful. WPSAN ends. 3.6.6 Effective handover of re- 3.6.10 Capacity enhancement. 3.6.4 Including marginalized sponsibility to newly recruited Women are not skilled in proj- women. Women in marginalized district coordination committee ect conceptualization, planning, areas are deprived of the bene- members is required. Orienta- financing, and proposal writing fits of the project because they tion on the status of the effort which hinders fund raising, ef- do not have access, are not mo- and DCC members’ roles and re- fective structures, implementa- bile, may not have financial responsibilities and ownership of tion, and sustainability of efforts. sources, or house and farm work the WPS agenda would help. Grassroots women need training deprives them of time. They need in this sector.

Women, Peace and Security | 31 Actors influencing the WPS agenda

Power, interest, legitimacy, and relation to collaboration and conflict were benchmarks used to identify some of the actors influencing women, peace and security.

• Conflict affected women: Conflict affected women are perceived as marginalized though they are the primary beneficiaries. They are not seen to be powerful enough to influence the WPS agenda.

• Chief district officer is perceived to be a legitimate stakeholder, and an important actor in policy making, by the community. They were not aware that the officer is chair of the WPS agenda.

• District development committees are perceived to be authoritative primary planners and implementers. Under the local self-governance act they are perceived to be legitimate stakeholders.

• Local peace committees, established upon signing the comprehensive peace agreement, have data, update status of conflict affected women, and distribute relief packages. They are perceived as powerful and legitimate.

• Community development centers are perceived as powerful, influential, and legitimate and are believed to have resources to contribute to the WPS agenda and coordinate at the district level.

• Women and children officers are perceived as powerful, legitimate, accountable, and accessible. They are seen on field visits, organizing events, and implementing the WPS agenda.

• Women and children office is government installed and involved in planning and implementation of the national and district action plans and UNSCRs 1325 and 1820. They are perceived as powerful.

• Women’s networks take forward discussions and coordinate with district level stakeholders. They have the ability and capacity to lobby effectively. They are considered legitimate.

• Women’s groups and networks are perceived as powerful with access to the WCO. District partner organizations are perceived as accountable and having resources to implement the WPS agenda. Awareness building and community mobilization is believed to be their strongest aspects.

• Cooperatives are perceived to be powerful, accountable and have financial resources. They have a ground network and carry out onsite monitoring and are used to regula- tory working systems.

• Women’s rights forums are perceived as vulnerable and in need of strengthening. Their work has been overshadowed through they have networks with donors and effective implementing partners.

32 | Way Forward Chapter IV: REPRESENTATION OF WOMEN

4.1 Influences on women as they take up key decision making positions

4.1.1 Mandatory provision set not allowed to move freely out- sions in Geta and Doti showed for women to be president, side of their households. In the contrasting levels of integration secretary, or treasurer in orga- Dalit community of Sanagaun, amongst community members of nizations. While a breakthrough only one woman was aware of different ethnicities. When invit- provision, this requirement is be- an event organized for women’s ed to a meeting, Tharu women of ing fulfilled to assure compliance empowerment and her neigh- Terai plains and women from the by organizations rather than to bors said, “She attends all events Pahad hills sat separately in Geta create opportunity for women. herself. When she does ask us to while they intermingled in Doti. Many such positions are ceremo- join her, we cannot take part be- nial and not accompanied by real cause we do not have the time or 4.1.4 Women gravitate towards decision-making roles. Even if a the money.” 56% female respon- organizations represented by woman may be appointed trea- dents said they did not partici- women leaders. A woman in surer, she may not be allowed to pate in meetings as they lacked a key decision making position contribute to financial decisions education. They were reluctant within an organization helps though she may take care of the to take part in forums, networks other women connect with the money because she is perceived and organizations due to lack of organization. Increased com- to be more “trustworthy” than confidence. Heterogeneous com- fort levels, greater confidence men. Such roles, however, appear munities like Sanagaun where in products and services, bet- to be shifting towards leadership different ethnic communities live ter flow of information and im- roles. “Women are in key deci- together have impressive par- proved sense of identity takes sion-making positions in small- ticipation and representation of place among women in commu- scale enterprises, cooperatives, women in local structures. nities when women are in deci- and other structures at the ward sion-making positions. The rip- level though men still control the 4.1.3 Perception of marginalized ple effect affects local structures reins,” a woman from Kailali said. people in project and non-proj- explains a local leader from Doti, 48% of surveyed female respon- ect districts on women’s leader- “When women became involved dents felt women are qualified to ship. Women from Tharu com- in the school management com- take up leadership roles. munity of non-project area of mittee, they were able to learn as Geta were not able to share how well as explain why their daugh- 4.1.2 Women from marginalized women could influence decision ters need to go to school.” There homogenous communities in making. Unlike Tharu women was 20% increase in women’s decision-making positions. Only from Geta, women from project activity at meetings in 2016 over rarely do women in remote mar- village development committees 2012. ginalized communities occupy were aware of their rights and key decision-making positions, were in decision making posi- 4.1.5 Reasons for increased par- benefit from opportunities or -ex tions. One such example was ticipation of women in key deci- ercise power. Those who do usu- Sundari Nepali who is president sion making positions. Greater ally tend to come from privileged of Jana Jagaran Sangh, Doti. The knowledge of legal, social, and backgrounds. Generally, women project has enabled women from financial provisions at the na- are unaware of their rights, avail- different communities to come tional, district and grassroots lev- able opportunities and are not together and work towards the el have helped women achieve economically strong. 18% of fe- common goal of women em- key decision making positions. male respondents said they were powerment. Focus group discus- Female respondents who said

Women, Peace and Security | 33 Trust within the network

Trust within the network was tested using participatory tools in Masuriya, Kailali with a mix of gender, caste, ethnicity, age, ex-combatants, and conflict affected women. 10 stakeholders in women’s empowerment were listed: political parties, women’s network, non-government organizations, cooperatives, village development committees,- priv ileged groups, school management committees and youth clubs, women and children offices, and the community forest user groups. Discussion on trust between target groups and stakeholders took place. Trust was quantified from 0-10 with 0 being no trust and 10 being most trusted. Participants were asked the reason behind their rating.

Political parties were trusted by stakeholders as they had advocated for women, peace and security and secured women’s participation in key decision making roles. Privileged groups, village development committees, and school management committees can be strategic partners when working with the women, peace and security agenda. All four were trusted and women believe that privileged groups have social assets such as networks and access to social structures and that they could hold key positions in the future. Village development committees worked well with stakeholders increasing their trust. Women trust school management committees as they deliver education to their children.

Women perceived youth clubs as important but they were unable to meet the expectations in the field of women's empowerment. Therefore, they are not usually invited to events related to women’s empowerment. The Women and Children Office has not been able to satisfy the high expectations of women and, therefore, they have not been able to gain high levels of trust. The WCO has resources like the gender violence eradication fund but victims have not been able to utilize the fund due to bureaucratic restrictions. Wom- en and children officers, however, have higher ratings and are believed to be accountable and responsible.

Trust of cooperatives and community forestry user group trust is low. Both provide loans to local people but the process is perceived to be confusing and difficult. Community forest user groups and political parties do not trust each other. Usually political leaders are the chairs of community forest user groups however, in Masuriya, the president of the group does not want political interference. Women’s networks, village development committees and school management committees do not trust each other. Conflict in power dynamics has led to this situation.

“Women are presidents, vice presidents, secretaries and treasurers in institutions that impact our communities.”

34 | Way Forward they were aware of issues relat- nomic ability to cover cost of women observe how they can ed to women, peace and securi- participation; and psychological be applied in real life. IPWN con- ty and legal provisions increased strength that allows women to nected women to success stories from 23% to 74% in 2016. Set stand and speak in front of people and people who used skills with representation of women in lo- determined their participation. effect. Observing role models cal structures has contributed to Lack of mobility due to social and such as active entrepreneurs, assure increased participation by family pressures, lack of aware- businesses, leaders, coordinators women in decision making posi- ness and education, and inability and encouraging women to par- tions. This increase has occurred to reach and stay in places where ticipate in events and workshops particularly over the past two events take place discouraged has increased confidence levels years as monitoring and better women. SIWPSAN helped wom- and chances that women would coordination takes place. Repre- en’s economic empowerment take up positions that involve sentation in women’s groups has through skill based training and key decision making. An IPWN also increased from 20% in 2012 seed grants that allow them to member in Doti said, “Women to 74% in 2015. Participation of start enterprises. Women from have now become presidents, women in the 12 local structures all three project districts indicat- vice presidents, secretaries and has increased from 13% to 36% ed education is needed if they treasurers in institutions that over this period. are to seek positions that involve impact our communities such as making key decisions. Women cooperatives and school man- 4.1.6 Changing patriarchal from supportive households that agement committees.” 13% of norms. Men dominated lead- shared workloads had greater conflict affected women and 15% ership positions in the past, but opportunity to take part in activ- of former women combatants women in decision making posti- ities and exposures that fostered said that they are affiliated with tions have increased noticeably. their decision making abilities. IPWN. Some men in all three project districts said that they were im- 4.1.8 Support from male mem- 4.1.10 Women’s networks and pressed by women’s interactions bers of the family helps women other local structures make a during meetings. Women took take on decision making roles. difference. Established networks on actions that have impact. A From vocal support to sharing in the project districts like moth- mixed gender discussion in Doti household work, other members ers’ groups, IPWN, women’s co- took place with excellent inter- of the family, especially men, operatives were able to increase active participation by both men can help women achieve more. leadership capability, coordi- and women. The interaction was Involvement in local structures nation skills, and management evidence of women breaking out is time consuming and women knowledge through SIWPSAN. A of set social patterns. Men were need to gain the support of their platform for members of the in- more accepting of the changed families so that they, their fami- ter-party women’s network was roles of women. When women lies, and their communities can created so that political parties actively express views and count- gain clear benefits. 71% of male could come together, discuss is- er statements, they show why respondents believed women sues and solutions and look be- they should hold decision mak- were qualified to fulfill roles and yond ideological differences to ing positions. 18% respondents responsibilities demanded by key benefit women. Opposing -par agreed that restriction by family decision making positions. They ties and thoughts realized com- members hindered their partici- were thoughtful as to what such mon interests, received training pation in groups, networks, or or- participation meant to women, on leadership and participation ganizations. 22% said they could children, families, households and took actions that strength- not participate because of their and farm work. While men want- ened women’s ability to take on engagements within the house- ed the participation of women in key decision making roles. 53% of hold. key decision making positions, female respondents participated they were concerned as well. in most discussions at the grass- 4.1.7 Social, political, and finan- roots level and 35% felt they in- cial impacts of participation. 4.1.9 Exposure increases wom- fluenced decisions. Encouragement from family and en’s involvement in key decision community; political affiliation making positions. After building and awareness of rights; eco- soft skills, it is important to let

Women, Peace and Security | 35 Quantifying understandings

Differences in understanding of causes of violence by gender was tested using a participatory tool in Sanagaun, Doti. Ten factors that can decrease violence against women and girls were tested: changing values and norms; economic empowerment; influence of men; informal education; family support; leadership development; sharing of household work by women and men; self-confidence; exposure visits; and women putting forth their candidacy for key decision making roles. Participants were divided into male and female groups and ranked these factors from 1 to 10: 1 being most important and 10 being least important.

Women ranked exposure visits as least important whereas men ranked it number 7. This may reflect unwillingness among men to let women stay outside their homes overnight or it may reflect women’s recognition that they need to learn through practical awareness. Women showed awareness that household and farming related work has resulted in time constraints. Men showed similar awareness. Both men and women ranked family support among top five most important factors that would allow women to take on key decision making positions.

Economic empowerment was ranked as least important by men whereas women ranked it number 8 and most important. This again may indicate men’s fear of letting go of financial control over women and their households. 68% of men said they misunderstood women whereas 96% women said they misunderstood men.

Influence of men in helping women achieve key decision making positions was ranked 9 in importance by women and men. Both men and women perceived education as most important. However, this prioritization automatically disqualifies most women from key decision making jobs as most of them are not highly educated.

Ranking factors that can decrease violence against women (1 most important, 10 not important) Topics Men Women Change in values and norms 6 6 Economic empowerment 10 8 Influence of men 9 9 Informal education 1 1 Family support 4 2 Leadership development 2 3 Sharing of house work by men and women 3 4 Self confidence 5 5 Field visits 7 10 Women putting forth candidacy for 8 7 key decision making roles

36 | Way Forward 4.2 Challenges and Recommendations

There has been significant im- 4.2.2 Men fear of losing their 4.2.4 Fostering leadership ca- provement and many more space and control. Men empha- pability: While provisions have women are in key decision mak- size education as a crucial aspect been set and made mandatory, ing positions since the women, for anyone who takes on key these quotas are being fulfilled peace and security agenda was decision making position. Very in a manner that appear to use mainstreamed. More women are few women become eligible for women as figureheads in order actively participating in the grass- such positions under this stan- to meet requirements. Interven- roots level events and applying dard. While very few men (3%) tions are necessary to study the to participate in different local said outright that women are capacity of women involved and structures. Women actively mak- not as qualified as men for such what they are contributing to ing decisions are outnumbering roles, 11% men said that a limit- their positions. Women in posi- women put in position to fulfill ed number of women are qual- tions of leadership need training quotas. Awareness of UNSCRs ified. Women challenged this and empowerment. Dalit and 1325 and 1820, national and dis- perception in all project districts other marginalized women need trict level plans, gender respon- saying that if given the chance, to be involved. sive budgets, women’s rights, they can actively participate in need for improved economy, bet- key decision making positions 4.2.6 Economic empowerment: ter leadership skills have brought regardless of their educational Financial capability opens up changes. Strengthening IPWN, status because they are motivat- opportunities. It frees women women’s networks, district coor- ed and opportunity is what they so they can take on productive dination committees and other need the most. Men need to be activities, gain support from local structures have opened up educated on how women in key the family, makes them mobile the possibility of long term sus- positions can make things better and allows them to gain access, tainability. for the family, community, and helps them acquire training and the nation. Men as well as wom- attend events, and allows them 4.2.1 Men’s roles as women seek en need to be equally engaged in to participate and gain employ- key decision making positions. improving the situation of wom- ment. Skills need development Women are encouraged to take en and girls and should see each and such learning need to be put on positions such as president other as allies in progress rather into productive and profitable and secretary in different social than adversaries. use. Facilities such as seed grants structures by men and families. have made a difference and eco- However, men are reluctant to 4.2.3 Focusing interventions: nomically empowered women completely open up the space Women’s economic, social, po- have set an example. for women because they do not litical, and confidence status believe women who were limited varies. Well-to-do women have 4.2.7 Creating an enabling en- to household work can become access to resources, connections vironment: Local practices may effective leaders straight away. with leaders and other decision have been in place for a thou- “Men say we should take on key makers, and have more of an op- sand years or more. Changing decision making positions but, at portunity to take up key positions practices and traditions for the the same time, they do not show in comparison to disadvantaged better requires exposure, under- full confidence in us. They doubt women, especially those that are standing of best practices, appre- us and ask if we will be able to marginalized, such as the Dalit. ciation of local mechanisms and fulfill these roles and respon- Specific interventions need to help as women rationalize chang- sibilities.” While men may be be designed to achieve equality ing roles and need for participa- outspoken for the need for the in terms of access and success. tion in key decision making po- representation of women in key More effort at the village devel- sitions. Women need help with decision making positions and opment committee and local lev- household and farm work and their support for it, women are els may be required. freedom from restraining cultur- discouraged by their lack of con- al and social practices to build fidence and support. capacity and exposure that helps improve leadership abilities.

Women, Peace and Security | 37 CONCLUSION

he SIWPSAN project pro- In 2012, when the project began, Tmoted women’s participation in 52% said women were limited to peace, security and governance household work and this caused processes targeting conflict-af- dependency and violence. 43% fected women and girls, former felt women were denied educa- women combatants and other tion and awareness due to their vulnerable groups of women, lo- gender. Participation in income cal women political leaders, and generation training was 9%. women’s groups among others. UNSCRs 1320 and 1825 and the By 2016, there were clear areas national action plan were intro- of positivity. 84% reported - var duced, their intents localized at ious forms of discrimination de- the local grassroots level, and creased. The value of education changes achieved. and awareness was understood at the grassroots level. 74% fe- The effort by UN Women brought male respondents said they were together the Ministry of Women, aware of issues related to wom- Children and Social Welfare, the en, peace and security and legal Ministry of Peace and Recon- provisions. Representation of struction, the Government of Fin- women's groups increased from land, Search for Common Ground 20% to 74% while 35% felt they as well as many local and national had influenced decisions. partners as stakeholders. People of the far west, especially women Habits and traditions developed and girls, benefitted. over centuries cannot all be changed in four years. New tech- Women learned of National -Ac nologies add positives as well tion Plan and the UN Security as negatives to the society. UN Council resolutions that gave Women through the SIWPSAN birth to it. They learned of their project influenced awareness, rights, the apparatus and pro- coordination, monitoring, inno- visions set up to protect them, vation and impacted women and where to go and who to meet in girls' lives in a tangible manner.. case they need to do so. Those Crimes against women and girls, who worked for their benefit protection of rights, empower- were trained, involved, built ca- ment, capacity building requires pacities, and are better coordi- continued international, nation- nated and in many cases, more al, local, and grassroots involve- effective. ment and is within reach.

38 | Way Forward Search for Common Ground (SFCG) is an international peace building organization that strives to transform the way the world deals with conflict, away from adversarial approaches towards collaborative problem solving. SFCG is working in 36 countries across Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and the USA. SFCG works with governments, civil society, state institutions, youth, media organizations and other stakeholders to promote peace, tolerance and collaboration across dividing lines.

Conflict and differences are inevitable. Violence is not. We work at all levels of society to build sustainable peace.

Our programs in Nepal aim to support development and long-term peace, focusing on five areas: strengthening governance and democratic participation; promoting peace building and reconciliation; enhancing access to justice and security; supporting development and economic growth; and developing leadership and a culture of dialogue.

At present, we work with 20 NGOs, 13 FM stations, government line agencies, and other peace building practitioners. We have 40 dynamic staffs, and 2 regional offices in Janakpur and Butwal.

Search works at all levels of society to build sustainable peace through three main avenues: Dialogue, Media, and Community.

Spiny Babbler works with - knowledge, - the arts, and - education, to make positive impact on human lives. Over quarter of a century, its knowledge center has supported international development organizations as they collect data, manage information, and prepare and deliver packages and programs.

The unit was involved in the production of what was, perhaps, the first gender manual for UNDP Nepal in the 1990s, violence against women and girls guidelines for UNICEF ROSA in the early 2000s, and other gender related efforts for development actors using the web, print, audio-visual, and alternative media and on-the-groundWomen, Peace action. and Security | 39 Way Forward Implementing the Women, Peace and Security agenda