Bridging the Gap: Supporting Human Rights in Nepal
Nepal, a small landlocked country in South Asia, is home to diverse ethnicity, rich cultural heritage and monuments, breathtaking scenery, and beautiful mountains. Despite having all of these, Nepal faces significant human rights challenges, including caste ethnicity and gender-based discrimination and violence, child labor, and human trafficking. To tackle these challenges, there are many organizations and individuals working tirelessly to promote and protect human rights in Nepal. In this article, I will explore some of the challenges facing Nepal and highlight the success stories of organizations and individuals who are making a difference. This will make you understand why you should support a small but powerful country like Nepal where we value your support.
Discrimination and Marginalization
Nepal is home to a wide range of marginalized communities, including Dalits, (so called untouchables), indigenous groups, and the LGBTQ+ community. It is mostly these communities who often faces discrimination and their human rights are frequently ignored. According to a report by the National Dalit Commission, Dalits, who make up roughly 13% of Nepal’s population, face significant discrimination and are excluded from many aspects of Nepali society. Pabitra Sunar, President of Dalit Journalist Association mentioned in a recently organized ‘Himal Media Mela 2023’ that the issues of Dalit are even not given utmost priority by the media houses in Nepal. Similarly, indigenous communities, who make up roughly 35% of Nepal’s population, also face numerous challenges and discrimination.
Despite these challenges, there are organizations working to promote the rights of marginalized communities and ensure that their voices are heard. One such organization is the Blue Diamond Society, which is Nepal’s first and largest LGBTQ+ rights based organization. The Blue Diamond Society provides a range of services to the LGBTQ+ community, including counseling, health care, and legal support. The organization’s work has been instrumental in raising awareness about LGBTQ+ rights and promoting greater acceptance and tolerance in Nepali society. This is just an example, there are many other organizations like these that are working to promote and prevent the human rights of Nepali citizens be it marginalized communities, women or any individual.
Gender-Based Violence
Gender-based violence is a pervasive problem in Nepal, and as we read and hear all the time, women and girls are particularly vulnerable. The report of Nepal Police mentioned that more than 6,000 cases of violence against women were reported in 2020 alone. There are huge number of cases which never comes out and forget about getting reported. Thanks to the patriarchal society Nepalis are living in. Despite efforts by the Nepali government and civil society organizations, gender-based violence remains a significant challenge.
However, there are organizations working to combat gender-based violence and support survivors. One such organization is Saathi Nepal, which provides counseling, legal support, and safe shelter to survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse. Saathi Nepal’s work has been instrumental in raising awareness about gender-based violence and empowering survivors to speak out against it. Similarly, when it comes to mental health issues, KOSHISH has been effortlessly working on protecting the vulnerable women living with mental health conditions.
Case Study:
Case 1:
Shristy Chaudhary, an eMBA graduate, a general manager for SESI Nepal, has overcome numerous challenges in her life journey. Despite facing upheavals and even leaving a previous job due to a controlling boss, she persevered. The boss of the organization where she worked in the year 2017was super mean that he would not allow her to take her exams asking her to leave her admit card at office. Shristy’s experiences highlight the struggles faced by girls from indigenous communities and the middle class, shedding light on the serious issue of human rights violations in Nepal. Now, she is providing financial support to Nepalis, enabling them to pursue business opportunities they once thought were unimaginable in their country.
Case 2:
During my involvement in an Employment Fund Skills for Reconstruction (EFSR) project, I encountered a woman who was enduring domestic violence from her husband. With five children and financial dependence on him, she had been subjected to physical, emotional, and sexual abuse for an extended period without knowing how to break free. However, when she learned about a masonry training program offered by HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation Nepal through the Employment Fund in 2017, she seized the opportunity and enrolled in the training. Remarkably, she quickly excelled and became a trainer in her community, contributing to the construction of earthquake-resistant houses. Additionally, she took legal action against her abusive husband, leading to a divorce settlement and the rightful claim of property. This story sheds light on the vulnerability of women in the face of human rights violations.
These case studies emphasize the significance of efforts to protect and prevent human rights violations in Nepal. While there are organizations dedicated to empowering survivors and advocating for justice, many women and girls are still trapped in abusive situations due to financial insecurity and a lack of safe options for the future. It is essential for Nepal to receive support in raising awareness about gender-based and human rights violence, and to work towards a future where all women, girls, and marginalized communities can live free from violence and abuse.
ese case studies highlights the importance of working to protect and prevent human rights violation in Nepal.
Despite the efforts of organizations empowering survivors and promoting justice, the lack of financial security and a safe future often forces many women and girls in Nepal to endure abuse. It is therefore critical for Nepal to receive support in raising awareness about gender-based and human rights violence, and to work towards a future where all women, girls, and marginalized communities can live without fear of violence and abuse.
A study report of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has mentioned that survivors of gender-based violence in Nepal often face barriers in seeking help due to cultural norms and societal stigmas. To address this issue, organizations provide counseling services and create safe spaces to support survivors. It is crucial for survivors to feel safe and supported, enabling them to come forward and report violence. Likewise, research conducted by the International Centre for Research on Women (ICRW) indicates that providing legal support to survivors can lead to better outcomes. Access to legal support increases the likelihood of accessing services and resources that help survivors escape violence. However, organizations working to provide legal support are facing challenges in securing funds for this important cause.
You can understand that gender-based violence is a significant human rights issue in Nepal, and different organizations like Saathi Nepal, KOSHISH, United Mission to Nepal and many others are working to combat it. The works being done by these organizations is crucial in creating a future where all women and girls in Nepal can live free from violence and abuse.
Child Labor and Human Trafficking
Child labor is a significant issue in Nepal, with an estimated 1.6 million child laborers in the country, many of whom are forced to work in hazardous conditions as per the data of the year 2020. According to a report by the International Labour Organization, Nepal has made progress in reducing child labor over the past decade, but significant challenges remain.
Voice of Children (VoC) is one of the prominent organization at the forefront of the battle against child labor and the protection of children’s rights in Nepal. While the organization along with other stakeholders has achieved remarkable success in reducing the number of street children in the Kathmandu Valley from 1,500 to less than 300 over the past decade, the challenges related to child labor and human rights violations persist, demanding urgent attention.
Despite the visible progress, the issue of child labor in Nepal extends beyond street children. Hidden forms of child labor, such as domestic work and bonded labor, continue to plague communities across the country. These children are often subjected to harsh conditions, exploitation, and denied their fundamental rights. The underlying factors contributing to child labor, including poverty, lack of access to education, and social inequality, further exacerbate the problem.
The Government of Nepal, alongside organizations like VoC, plays a crucial role in addressing child labor and human rights violations. It is essential for the government to adopt and enforce robust legislation that prohibits and penalizes child labor practices. Additionally, implementing comprehensive social welfare programs, focused on poverty alleviation and enhancing access to quality education, is vital to tackle the root causes of child labor and provide sustainable solutions.
VoC’s work in raising awareness, advocating for policy changes, and providing support to child laborers is instrumental in combating this issue. By partnering with local communities, engaging with stakeholders, and offering rehabilitation and educational programs, organizations like VoC , CWIN , THIS and others create pathways for children to escape the cycle of exploitation and reclaim their rights.
Ultimately, eradicating child labor in Nepal requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses the systemic issues contributing to its persistence. This includes addressing poverty, improving access to education, and enforcing robust legislation and for which international support and funds are required. By doing so, Nepal can create an environment where every child is free from labor exploitation, and their rights are safeguarded, ensuring a brighter and more equitable future for the nation’s children.
Child labor is a significant issue in Nepal, and as you have heard many of whom are forced to work in hazardous conditions. Child labor has a detrimental impact on the physical and mental health of children, and it often perpetuates the cycle of poverty. KOSHISH, a mental health organization in Nepal, recognizes the critical need to address the mental health needs of child laborers and their families.
Human Rights and Mental Health
KOSHISH, an organization in Nepal, plays a vital role in supporting women’s mental health and preventing human rights violations. They provide culturally sensitive and gender-responsive mental health services to women, addressing the stigma and discrimination they often face. Through case studies like Maya’s, KOSHISH demonstrates the positive impact of counseling and psychosocial support in addressing mental health challenges. By working with families and communities, they promote awareness and understanding of mental health issues. The organization also seeks to promote education and vocational training as a means to break the cycle of poverty and exploitation.
KOSHISH’s work in mental health significantly contributes to the prevention of human rights violations. They address the right to health, particularly for vulnerable populations like women and children who have experienced trauma and abuse. By providing mental health services to survivors, KOSHISH ensures their rights are protected. Their efforts to raise awareness and reduce stigma also empower individuals to seek help, potentially preventing further human rights violations such as domestic violence and child abuse.
In conclusion, KOSHISH’s work in mental health in Nepal has a profound impact on human rights. Through their services, advocacy, and awareness-raising initiatives, they contribute to creating a more just and equitable society where individuals’ rights to health and well-being are respected and protected. So why don’t we support this cause?
In addition to KOSHISH, Nepal is fortunate to have several other organizations dedicated to addressing mental health challenges and promoting well-being in the country. The United Mission to Nepal (UMN) has been working in Nepal since 1954 and focuses on various development areas, including mental health and psychosocial support. They collaborate with local communities and healthcare providers to improve access to mental health services, reduce stigma, and provide training for healthcare professionals.
The Transcultural Psychosocial Organization Nepal (TPO Nepal) specializes in providing psychosocial support and mental health services to vulnerable populations, including trauma survivors, conflict-affected individuals, and marginalized communities. They offer counseling, therapy, and community-based interventions to promote mental well-being and empower individuals to overcome mental health challenges.
The Centre for Mental Health and Counselling Nepal (CMC-Nepal) provides affordable and accessible mental health services to individuals of all ages. Their focus is on counseling, therapy, and awareness programs aimed at reducing the stigma associated with seeking help for mental health concerns and promoting a culture of well-being.
The Nepal Mental Health Foundation (NMHF) focuses on improving mental health care through research, advocacy, and community outreach. They work towards promoting mental health awareness, providing training for healthcare professionals, and advocating for policy changes to ensure better mental health services in the country.
The Transcultural Mental Health Centre (TMHC) works with marginalized communities in Nepal to improve mental health outcomes. They offer counseling, psychosocial support, and capacity-building initiatives, empowering individuals and communities to address mental health challenges effectively.
These organizations, alongside KOSHISH, play a significant role in addressing mental health issues, reducing stigma, and advocating for the rights of individuals with mental health concerns in Nepal. Their collaborative efforts contribute to creating a more inclusive and supportive society where mental health is prioritized, and individuals receive the care and support they need to lead fulfilling lives. Together, they are making a positive impact on mental health in Nepal and working towards a future where everyone has access to quality mental health services.
Human Trafficking
Human trafficking is also a significant challenge in Nepal, with thousands of Nepalis, particularly women and girls, trafficked each year for forced labor and sexual exploitation. According to a report by the US Department of State, Nepal is a source, transit, and destination country for human trafficking.
In addition to addressing mental health challenges, some of the organizations working in Nepal also play a crucial role in combating human trafficking, which is a grave violation of human rights. Human trafficking is a pressing issue in Nepal, with thousands of individuals, particularly women and children, falling victim to this heinous crime each year. Trafficked individuals are subjected to various forms of exploitation, including forced labor, sexual exploitation, and organ trafficking.
Organizations like Maiti Nepal and Shakti Samuha are at the forefront of the fight against human trafficking in Nepal. Maiti Nepal, established in 1993, has been instrumental in rescuing and rehabilitating trafficking survivors. They provide shelter, education, vocational training, and legal support to survivors, empowering them to rebuild their lives. Their efforts also involve raising awareness, conducting advocacy campaigns, and collaborating with law enforcement agencies to combat human trafficking at its roots. Maiti Nepal operates a network of transit homes and rehabilitation centers across the country, providing shelter, education, vocational training, and medical care to trafficking survivors. Their dedicated teams work tirelessly to rescue victims, conduct investigations, and facilitate legal action against traffickers. The organization also conducts extensive awareness campaigns, targeting vulnerable communities and raising awareness about the risks and signs of trafficking.
Another organization actively working to combat human trafficking in Nepal is Shakti Samuha. Founded in 1996 by survivors of trafficking themselves, Shakti Samuha focuses on prevention, rescue, rehabilitation, and advocacy. They operate rehabilitation centers where survivors receive shelter, healthcare, counseling, and skills training to empower them economically. Shakti Samuha also conducts community awareness programs, engaging with vulnerable populations to educate them about the dangers of trafficking and empower them with knowledge to protect themselves. Additionally, the organization advocates for stronger laws and policies to address human trafficking and supports survivors in accessing justice and seeking redress. Through their multi-faceted approach, Shakti Samuha contributes significantly to the prevention of human trafficking and the protection of survivors’ rights in Nepal.
These organizations, along with many others in Nepal, work tirelessly to prevent human trafficking through a comprehensive approach that encompasses rescue, rehabilitation, awareness raising, and advocacy. By providing support to survivors, raising awareness in communities, collaborating with law enforcement agencies, and advocating for policy changes, these organizations are making significant strides in combating human trafficking and protecting the rights of vulnerable individuals. Their efforts not only prevent further human rights violations but also contribute to creating a society where individuals can live free from the horrors of trafficking and exploitation.
Similarly, KOSHISH recognizes the link between mental health and vulnerability to trafficking. They understand that individuals who have experienced trauma, abuse, or exploitation are at higher risk of being trafficked. Therefore, in their comprehensive approach to mental health, KOSHISH provides support and rehabilitation services to survivors of trafficking, ensuring their mental well-being as they reintegrate into society.
By addressing the mental health needs of survivors, these organizations contribute to the prevention of further human rights violations. They recognize the profound impact that trauma and exploitation can have on an individual’s mental health and work towards restoring their well-being. Moreover, their initiatives also include raising awareness about the risks of trafficking, educating communities, and advocating for policy changes to strengthen anti-trafficking measures in Nepal.
Through their combined efforts in mental health support and anti-trafficking initiatives, these organizations aim to break the cycle of exploitation, protect the rights of vulnerable individuals, and create a safer and more just society. By addressing the underlying mental health issues and providing comprehensive support, they play a vital role in preventing human trafficking and ensuring the well-being and rights of survivors.
Overall, KOSHISH’s work in Nepal highlights the importance of addressing the mental health needs of vulnerable populations, including children and women. Through their various programs and initiatives, KOSHISH is working to break the cycle of poverty and exploitation and promote greater mental health and well-being in Nepal.
Despite the challenges, there are individuals working to combat trafficking and support survivors. Renu Sharma, the founder of the Women’s Rehabilitation Centre, has been working to eliminate human trafficking in Nepal for more than 20 years. Sharma’s organization provides support and rehabilitation services to survivors of trafficking and abuse and has been instrumental in raising awareness about trafficking and advocating for greater government action to combat the problem.
In conclusion, the fight against human rights violations in Nepal is an ongoing challenge, but it is being met with unwavering dedication from organizations and individuals striving to protect and empower vulnerable populations. By providing vital support to survivors of gender-based violence, combating child labor and trafficking, and promoting mental health and well-being, these change-makers are transforming the lives of countless Nepalis.
However, the journey towards a society free from human rights violations is far from over. It demands sustained efforts from the Nepali government, civil society organizations, and the international community to address the underlying causes and ensure the rights of every Nepali citizen are safeguarded. This necessitates promoting human rights, guaranteeing access to justice, and holding perpetrators accountable.
As compassionate individuals, we have the power to contribute to this transformative process. By supporting local organizations, advocating for stronger governmental action, and raising awareness about the human rights issues facing Nepal, we can make a meaningful impact. Together, we can strive towards a more just, equal, and rights-respecting society not only in Nepal but also around the world.
The author: Kriti Bhuju is a professional in the field of Media and Communication, having successfully completed her doctoral studies in 2021. With nearly a decade of experience in the media industry, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her roles. Through her multifaceted career journey, Kriti continues to make meaningful contributions to the field of media and communication, both through her professional endeavors and her dedication to education and mentorship.