April 23, 2026, Kanchanpur – Saathi, under the GOAL Project, organized a workshop engaging religious leaders and traditional healers across project areas to strengthen community-led efforts in preventing and responding to gender-based violence (GBV). The initiative focused on enhancing awareness and mobilizing influential community figures to challenge harmful gender norms, stereotypes, and socio-cultural practices that contribute to violence against women and girls.
The workshop created a platform for critical dialogue on how discriminatory social and cultural practices perpetuate GBV and its wider social and psychosocial impacts. It also emphasized the significant role of religious leaders and traditional healers as trusted figures, while encouraging reflection on and rejection of harmful beliefs that reinforce stigma and violence. Participants highlighted their influence in shaping community attitudes and behaviors, while discussions deepened understanding of the links between harmful practices, mental health, and GBV.
The sessions also introduced referral mechanisms, equipping participants with knowledge to support survivors by linking them to appropriate services. Participants reflected on the gradual transformation of harmful norms within their communities and expressed commitment to actively contribute to GBV prevention and response efforts. As a gesture of respect and recognition, participants were honored with Dosalla. Mr. Sher Bahadur Saud, Chairperson of Ward No. 11, Shuklaphanta Municipality, underscored the vital role of traditional healers as trusted community actors capable of influencing mindsets and promoting positive social change.
A total of 25 religious leaders and traditional healers participated in the workshop. The engagement of these key community influencers is expected to contribute to sustained community-level change and improved support systems for survivors.
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.
