July 25, 2024, Kathmandu – Saathi, with the support of UNFPA, organized an advocacy meeting with Members of Parliament and local government officials from Achham as part of the Gender-Based Violence Prevention and Response Phase II program. The meeting focused on addressing GBV prevention and the need for skill development training for survivors of violence.
Key Attendees:
• Hon’ble Puspa Bahadur Shah, Member of Federal Parliament
• Hon’ble Sher Bahadur Kunwar, Member of Federal Parliament
• Mr. Lalit Bahadur Kunwar, Chairperson of District Coordination Committee
• Mr. Padam Bahadur Bohara, Mayor of Mangalsen Municipality
• Mr. Yagya Prasad Dhakal, Mayor of Kamalbazar Municipality
• Ms. Ambika Chalaune, Mayor of Panchadewal Municipality
• Mr. Prakash Saud, Chairperson of Dhakari Rural Municipality
• Mr. Damabar B.C., Chairperson of Tumarkhand Rural Municipality
• Mr. Bhim Bahadur Saud, Chairperson of Chaurpati Rural Municipality
• Ms. Bindu Kunwar Rawal, Vice Chairperson of Banigadi Jaygud Rural Municipality
• Representatives from UNFPA, Saathi, and CMC
The meeting highlighted the importance of safe houses for survivors of gender-based violence (GBV). Mayors, chairpersons, and vice-chairpersons agreed that safe houses are essential services for GBV survivors and committed to supporting and funding these initiatives.
Members of Parliament discussed that GBV issues are deeply rooted in societal mindsets, which take time to change. They emphasized the need for continuous efforts and pledged their support in the fight against GBV. They also committed to advocating for safe houses, training programs for survivors, and necessary legal reforms.
