April 19, 2026, Shuklaphanta, Kanchanpur – Saathi, under the GOAL Project, successfully conducted a capacity-building workshop on intersectionality, Gender Transformative Approaches (GTA), and GBV referral mechanisms in Jhalari, Shuklaphanta. The workshop brought together 30 community leaders, including elected representatives, Female Community Health Volunteers (FCHVs), youth, and civil society representatives, with the aim of strengthening community-level capacity for Gender-Based Violence (GBV) prevention and response.
During the opening session, Ward Chairperson of Shuklaphanta Municipality–11, Sher Bhadur Saud, highlighted that GBV is evolving in more complex forms alongside development, stressing the need for collective and sensitive responses. Similarly, Ward Chairperson of Krishnapur Municipality–2, Arjun Saud, underscored the persistent barriers in accessing justice for GBV survivors. He noted a positive trend of increased reporting and reduced reconciliation practices, while urging stakeholders to respond more effectively.
The workshop sessions focused on unpacking gender roles, harmful stereotypes, and intersectionality as root causes of GBV. Participants enhanced their understanding of gender transformative approaches and explored practical ways to promote gender equity within their communities. The training also strengthened knowledge of referral mechanisms, including access to services through One-Stop Crisis Management Centres (OCMCs). Many participants reported gaining new insights into OCMC services, despite having limited prior awareness.
As a result of the workshop, participants demonstrated improved understanding of GBV response systems, including the mental health impacts of violence. They emphasized the importance of linking survivors to appropriate services and expressed commitment to engaging in local planning and budgeting processes. Participants also pledged to act as pressure groups to promote accountability and ensure effective GBV response at the community level.
The workshop marks a significant step in strengthening grassroots leadership, fostering a more coordinated response to GBV, and advancing Saathi’s efforts toward building inclusive, accountable, and gender-equitable communities.
These activities were conducted under the GOAL Project across both project areas. The GOAL Project is implemented with the support of AEIN – Aide à l’Enfance de l’Inde et du Népal, with funding from the Luxembourg Ministry of Development Cooperation and the Luxembourg Ministry of Environment, Climate and Sustainable Development.
