May 25, 2025, Kathmandu – Saathi, in collaboration with the Ministry of Women, Children and Senior Citizens and the Civil Servants’ Wives Association (CISWA), organized an interactive program focused on the prevention of gender-based violence (GBV) and the promotion of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW).
The program brought together 113 members of CISWA to engage in dialogue, learning, and collective reflection on key issues related to gender justice. The event featured high-level participation, including Chief Guest Ms. Laxmi Kumari Basnet, Secretary at the Ministry, Special Guest Ms. Bandana Rana, Member of the UN CEDAW Committee, and Guest Ms. Abha Shrestha Karn, Joint Secretary at the Ministry.
The program was chaired by the President of CISWA. In her inaugural address, Secretary Basnet reaffirmed the government’s strong commitment to eliminating GBV and emphasized the crucial role of women’s groups in fostering safe and equitable communities.
Ms. Rana delivered a comprehensive presentation on CEDAW, highlighting Nepal’s obligations under the treaty and encouraging CISWA members to act as local advocates for gender equality. She also focused on empowerment and how they can play an important role in influencing plans and polcies.
Ms. Palita Thapa, Program Manager at Saathi, presented data and insights on the current landscape of GBV in Nepal, identifying major challenges, gaps in service delivery, and effective prevention and response strategies.
Participants actively engaged in discussions, sharing experiences and perspectives on addressing violence and discrimination in their own contexts. The program concluded with closing remarks from the guests and the Chairperson, expressing appreciation for the collaborative initiative and reiterating the need for sustained efforts. Overall, the event served as a meaningful platform for capacity building, awareness raising, and strengthening partnerships between civil society and government stakeholders in the pursuit of a violence-free and gender-equal society.
