National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF) | National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF)

One of the Largest networking umbrella organizations in Nepal

Advocacy on International Platforms

Fostering Intergenerational Knowledge transfer

About Us

Indigenous women of Nepal face multiple forms of discrimination. Indigenous women, being indigenous peoples, face racial, linguistic, religious, cultural, economic, political discrimination and exclusion. Also, indigenous women, being women, face gender discrimination. Thus, indigenous women are victimized by ideologies, policies and practices of Bahunbad (Brahmanism) and patriarchy.

Empowerment and strengthening of indigenous women is a must to end all forms of racial and gender discrimination, exploitation, suppression and oppression against indigenous women. Acceptance of multi-caste and ethnic, multi-lingual, multi-religious and multi-cultural reality of Nepali society by the people’s movement of 1990 has indeed paved a way for non-governmental organizations to contribute for empowerment and strengthening of indigenous peoples, women and other excluded groups and communities. There was growing realization for a need of organized efforts by indigenous women to make development programs for women and indigenous peoples successful, to organize and empower indigenous women from local to national levels on common issues of women, and to work for equity and equality by having common objectives on women’s common issues. It was in this backdrop that the National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF) was founded in 1998.

There are not only common problems and issues of indigenous women and other women and also of indigenous women and indigenous men but also distinct problems and issues that are unique to indigenous women. Therefore, the National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF) was established to support and raise awareness of indigenous women, to intensify advocacy for securing rights of indigenous women and indigenous children, and to run programs with focus on advocacy, training, discussion, interaction, study, and research as needed.

Empowering Women

Our objective is to empower Indigenous Women to become the primary defenders and proponents for securing their rights, as previously highlighted in the GR-39 and CEDAW reports from past years. By doing so, we aim to capacitate Indigenous Women and provide them with the necessary tools and knowledge to advocate for their rights and achieve gender equality in their communities.

Mission

Our Misson

Advocate ensuring the rights of highly marginalized and endangered indigenous people particularly women.

Promoting the social, cultural, political and economical rights of indigenous women

Intervening in areas where Indigenous women needs support by finding out and assessing the social situation of indigenous women.

Assisting Indigenous women in mobilizing resources from local, national and other sources so as to make them economically independent.

To increase awareness level of people on the issues of indigenous women widely through publications of different types of publications.

To organize exploited and marginalized women so that they are able to understand their rights and work to ensure their rights and aware the community on various issues such trafficking of women.

establishment of just and equitable society

Empower Indigenous Women: National Equality.

Our Work

What We Do

‍NIWF’s support indigenous women to be an equal partner in the national development.

Lobbying

National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF) plays a pivotal role in lobbying for the rights of Indigenous Women, ensuring that their voices are heard at all levels of governance. By engaging with politicians, lawmakers, and other key stakeholders, as well as participating in regional and international platforms, NIWF strives to make the state and other relevant bodies responsible and accountable for upholding and advancing the rights of Indigenous Women. NIWF actively lobbies politicians and lawmakers to promote policies that protect and empower Indigenous Women. Our approach includes direct meetings, policy briefings, and presenting evidence-based research to inform and influence legislative processes. By maintaining a persistent presence in political arenas, we ensure that the issues affecting Indigenous Women are prioritized and addressed in policy discussions and decision-making. NIWF is dedicated to lobbying for the rights of Indigenous Women and Girls at all levels of governance. Our comprehensive approach, rooted in research and collaboration, ensures that the voices of Indigenous Women are heard and that their rights are prioritized in policy and practice.

Leadership Development & Advocacy

National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF) is dedicated to fostering the leadership potential of Indigenous Women and Girls. Recognizing the critical role that leadership plays in empowering Communities and driving social change, NIWF offers a range of training, workshops, and programs designed to develop and enhance the leadership skills of Indigenous Women and Girls. NIWF's leadership development programs are designed to address the unique challenges faced by Indigenous Women and Girls. Through these initiatives, NIWF not only equips individuals with the tools they need to lead effectively but also strengthens the broader movement for Indigenous rights and social justice. NIWF is committed to nurturing the next generation of Indigenous leaders. Our programs for young leaders are designed to inspire and engage Indigenous Girls, providing them with early exposure to leadership and advocacy. Our work in this area is a testament to our commitment to social justice, equality, and the empowerment of Indigenous Communities.

Human Rights

Since its establishment, the National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF) has been steadfastly dedicated to advancing the human rights of Indigenous women and girls. Our commitment to human rights is reflected in our comprehensive approach, which spans grassroots initiatives to high-level policy advocacy. NIWF ensures meaningful and result-oriented engagement at all levels, advocating for the rights of Indigenous peoples through persistent advocacy and strategic lobbying. NIWF recognizes the unique challenges faced by Indigenous Women and Girls, who often experience compounded discrimination based on their gender and ethnicity. NIWF’s advocacy efforts focus on promoting their rights and addressing issues such as violence, discrimination, lack of access to education and healthcare, and economic marginalization. NIWF works to amplify their voices, ensuring they are heard and respected in all spheres of life. At the grassroots level, NIWF engages directly with Indigenous Communities to understand their needs, aspirations, and challenges. NIWF conducts workshops, training sessions, and awareness campaigns to educate Indigenous Women and Girls about their rights. NIWF extends its advocacy efforts to the policy-making arena, where NIWF strives to influence laws, policies, and practices that impact Indigenous Peoples. Our policy advocacy is based on rigorous research and grounded in the lived experiences of Indigenous Women and Girls. We engage with policymakers, government officials and stakeholders to push for legislative reforms and the implementation of policies that protect and promote the rights of Indigenous Peoples.

Research & Publication

Research and Publication are integral to the mission of the National Indigenous Women Forum. Through empirical research, policy reviews, and the dissemination of our findings, NIWF strives to bring Indigenous issues to the forefront and advocate for meaningful change. NIWF’s work not only informs and educates but also empowers Indigenous Communities by amplifying their voices and experiences. NIWF believes that well-informed advocacy, grounded in solid research, is essential for achieving justice, equality, and respect for Indigenous Peoples. NIWF conducts extensive empirical research on a wide range of Indigenous issues. This research is designed to uncover the lived experiences of Indigenous Peoples, identify systemic challenges, and document the cultural, social, and economic realities within these Indigenous Communities. Our research methodology is rooted in participatory approaches, ensuring that Indigenous voices are not only heard but are integral to the research process. By engaging directly with Community members, we gather qualitative and quantitative data that reflects the authentic perspectives of Indigenous Peoples.

Youth Initiative

National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF) is dedicated to fostering the empowerment of Indigenous Girls and Youth through a variety of training programs, workshops, and initiatives. Understanding the unique challenges faced by young Indigenous individuals, NIWF has made it a priority to provide them with the tools, skills, and knowledge they need to thrive. Focus for Indigenous Girls (FIG) operates as a sister organization to NIWF, with a specialized focus on raising awareness and addressing critical issues among Indigenous Girls and Youth. FIG aims to educate and empower young Indigenous individuals on topics such as climate change, sex, gender, sexuality, and gender-based violence. By tackling these vital issues, FIG seeks to create a generation of informed and empowered leaders who can advocate for themselves and their communities. In 2023, NIWF launched Indigenous Girls Opportunity Fund (IGOF), an initiative aimed at providing educational opportunities to Indigenous Girls from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. This fund offers scholarships that enable these Young Indigenous Girls to pursue their education and achieve their academic goals. The work of National Indigenous Women Forum and Focus for Indigenous Girls represents a holistic approach to empowerment. Through awareness campaigns, education, leadership training, and financial support, NIWF and FIG are making significant strides in improving the lives of Indigenous Girls and Youth. Their efforts ensure that the next generation of Indigenous leaders is well-prepared to address the complex issues of today and tomorrow, driving positive change within their Communities and beyond.

Documentation

National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF) is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Indigenous knowledge, languages, cultures, and traditions. Recognizing the profound value these elements hold, NIWF has made it their mission to document and safeguard them for future generations. Indigenous knowledge, in particular, offers invaluable solutions to contemporary challenges like climate change, making its preservation crucial. Indigenous knowledge encompasses a deep understanding of the natural world, developed over centuries through close interaction with the environment. This knowledge includes sustainable agricultural practices, natural resource management, and climate adaptation strategies that have been honed to perfection. By documenting and disseminating this knowledge, NIWF ensures that these time-tested solutions remain accessible and can be integrated into broader climate action efforts. One of NIWF’s significant initiatives is the documentation of the Bankariya Community’s language. The Bankariya are an endangered Indigenous community in Nepal, with their language at risk of extinction. With only a few elders fluent in the mother tongue, the language is perilously close to disappearing. This loss would mean the erasure of a vital component of the community’s identity, culture, and history. Documentation is important in preservation of Identity and Culture, Educational and Research Value, Empowerment and Advocacy. The work of NIWF in documenting Indigenous knowledge, languages, and cultures is a vital endeavour. It ensures that the wisdom and traditions of Indigenous Peoples are preserved for future generations, while also providing crucial solutions to modern challenges such as climate change. Through these efforts, NIWF is fostering a more inclusive, sustainable, and culturally rich world.

Climate Justice

Indigenous Peoples, particularly Indigenous Women, are among the most vulnerable populations affected by climate change. The unique challenges they face require tailored solutions that not only address immediate needs but also promote long-term sustainability and resilience. The National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF) has recognized this critical need and has been at the forefront of advocating for climate justice. To empower Indigenous Women and their communities, NIWF has initiated a series of comprehensive Climate Smart Farming training programs. These programs are specifically designed to help Indigenous Women Groups develop sustainable agricultural practices that enable them to produce fresh vegetables throughout the year, including off-season periods. By implementing these practices, the women can sustain themselves and their families, ensuring food security and economic stability. One of the most significant achievements of NIWF’s training programs has been the substantial reduction in the use of chemical pesticides. The women have embraced environmentally friendly farming techniques, which are beneficial not only for their health but also for the preservation of their natural surroundings. This shift towards organic farming practices contributes to the overall health of the ecosystem, promoting biodiversity and reducing environmental pollution. Achieving climate justice requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the social, economic, and environmental dimensions of climate change. It involves ensuring that the voices of the most vulnerable and marginalised communities are heard and that their rights and needs are prioritised and NIWF works to bring forth Indigenous Peoples voices.

Economic Empowerment

Since its establishment in 1998, National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF) has been steadfast in its mission to economically empower Indigenous Communities. By offering a diverse range of training programs and workshops, NIWF ensures that the specific needs and demands of these Indigenous Communities are effectively addressed. A cornerstone of NIWF's initiatives is the Integrated Pest Management (IPM) training, which has been instrumental in empowering Indigenous Women groups through sustainable agricultural practices. This training not only enhances their agricultural productivity but also fosters economic independence, allowing them to support their families and communities more effectively. In addition to agricultural training, NIWF has introduced soap-making workshops tailored for the Bankariya and Chepang Women groups. These workshops provide the skills necessary for these women to produce and market soap, creating a reliable source of income and promoting self-sufficiency. The success of these programs is evident in the improved economic conditions and enhanced quality of life for the participants. NIWF's commitment to economic empowerment extends beyond agriculture and soap making. NIWF has also facilitated training in pickle making and knitting, providing Indigenous Women with a variety of skills to generate income. These trainings are designed not only to impart technical skills but also to encourage entrepreneurship and business acumen among the participants. Furthermore, NIWF places a strong emphasis on leadership development. By offering leadership training programs, the organization aims to equip Indigenous Women with the confidence and skills needed to take on leadership roles within their Communities. These programs are crucial for fostering a sense of agency and empowering Women to advocate for their rights and the rights of their Communities. Through its comprehensive and multifaceted approach, NIWF has made significant strides in economically empowering Indigenous Women. The organization’s efforts have led to sustainable economic development, greater financial independence, and improved social standing for many women within Indigenous communities. NIWF remains committed to continuing its work, adapting its programs to meet evolving needs, and expanding its reach to empower even more Indigenous Women in the future.

Our News

Latest Updates

2025-07-13 15:32:32

Validation Workshop on the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Draft Report, prepared through an Indigenous lens.

On 6th July 2025, National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF), in collaboration with the Nepal Federation of Indigenous Nationalities (NEFIN), Indigenous Women Legal Awareness Group (INWOLAG), National Indigenous Disabled Women Association Nepal (NIDWAN), and National Indigenous Women Federation, successfully convened a Validation Workshop on the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Draft Report, prepared through an Indigenous lens. The workshop aimed to validate the UPR draft report by incorporating critical inputs, feedback, and recommendations from Indigenous Nations and persons with disabilities. This collective effort seeks to ensure that the voices, rights, and lived experiences of Indigenous Peoples are effectively reflected in Nepal’s UPR submission.

The program was facilitated by Ms. Pratima Gurung, Chairperson of NIDWAN and a prominent Indigenous disability rights activist. Hon. Kiran Kumar Sah, Chairman of the Committee on Women and Social Affairs served as the Chief guest for the program. Mr. Hom Yamphu, Professor at TU and an expert on Indigenous rights and policy advocacy, delivered a comprehensive presentation on the UPR mechanism, its relevance to Nepal, and the process of preparing the draft report. He provided an in-depth walkthrough of the key thematic areas covered in the report, highlighting the gaps in the existing human rights frameworks and policies from Indigenous perspectives. The participants of the workshop included representatives from Indigenous Organizations, Indigenous Disabled persons organizations and Indigenous activist. The attendees actively engaged in reviewing the draft and offered insightful feedback and recommendations based on lived realities, structural barriers, and policy shortcomings. Key areas discussed included land rights, political participation, access to justice, education, climate justice, and accessibility for Indigenous Women, Girls and persons with disabilities.

2025-07-13 15:24:15

Three-Day Staff training on Masculinity, Gender-Based Violence, Caste-Based Discrimination and Social Norms

From 9th to 11th July 2025, the National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF) organized a three-day training on Masculinity, Gender-Based Discrimination, and Social Norms for its staff, board members, and consortium partners—Dalit Women Network and Nepal Muslim Women Welfare Society (NMWWS). The training aimed to deepen understanding of gendered power structures and challenge harmful social norms within diverse communities. The program commenced with opening remarks by NIWF Chairperson Ms. Suni Lama, who highlighted the importance of critical reflection on gender roles, especially in the context of Indigenous and marginalized communities. Ms. Manorama from UN Women also delivered insightful remarks, emphasizing the need for intersectional approaches to gender justice.

The sessions were facilitated by GESI expert Dr. Sangram Lama, with support from team leader Ms. Pooja Shrestha. Vice Chairperson of NIWF, Ms. Yasso Kanti Bhattachan, delivered a compelling presentation on the Indigenous Peoples' Movement, the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), and General Recommendation No. 39 on the rights of Indigenous women and girls. Additionally, Mr. Amrit Sunuwar, Chairperson of Sunuwar Samaj Sewa, presented on the critical role of media in amplifying marginalized voices. He also addressed the media’s frequent bias and its failure to represent the issues of Indigenous and excluded communities adequately. The training created a space for reflection, learning, and collective strategizing toward building inclusive narratives and challenging discriminatory social norms.

2025-06-19 11:39:57

ICIMOD and NIWF organized a workshop titled "Inclusive Conservation: Understanding the Contributions, Leadership, and Challenges of Indigenous Peoples in Nepal."

From 9th to 11th June 2025, the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) and the National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF) jointly organized a workshop titled "Inclusive Conservation: Understanding the Contributions, Leadership, and Challenges of Indigenous Peoples in Nepal." The event was held at ICIMOD Headquarters in Lalitpur and continued at Nagarkot. The workshop's chief guest was Hon. Rupa B.K. State Minister for Forest and Environment, while special guests included Dr. Pema Gyamtsho, Director General of ICIMOD, Hon. Ram Bahadur Thapa Magar of Indigenous Nationalities Commission (INC), Hon. Subodh Singh Tharu of the Tharu Commission; Ms. Suni Lama, Chairperson of NIWF, and Mr. Divas Rai, General Secretary of the Nepal Federation of Indigenous Nationalities (NEFIN).

The workshop brought together a diverse group of participants and representatives from key Indigenous and civil society organizations, including: NIWFederation, INWOLAG, NIDA, LAHURNIP, FIKA, YFIN, Limi Youth Society, ICCA Network Nepal, FKDF, NFDIN, Maiti Nepal, CIPRED, Tharu Kalyankari Sabha, Sana Udhyog, Tharu Mahila Sabha, NAST and Sunuwar Samaj Sewa.

Key thematic areas covered during the program included:

Target 3 of Nepal’s National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP)
OECM (Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures)
Indigenous and Traditional Territories (ITT)
Indigenous and Community Conserved Areas (ICCA)

This workshop served as an important platform to highlight the crucial role of Indigenous Peoples in biodiversity conservation, recognize their traditional knowledge and stewardship practices, and strengthen their leadership in policy-level conservation efforts in Nepal.

2025-06-19 11:19:19

Agreements signed with 25 Climate groups and disbursement of 1st installment by SALASAN Nepal and NIWF

Climate Leadership and Action for Indigenous Women in Nepal is a project implemented by Salasan Consulting Inc. in partnership with the Centre for Indigenous Environmental Resources (CIER), through Salasan Nepal in collaboration with the National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF). The project aims to build the capacity of 50 Indigenous women leaders from 25 Indigenous climate groups, reaching a total of 750 women across four rural municipalities in the Kavrepalanchok and Sindhupalchok districts. To date, the project has strengthened the knowledge and skills of Indigenous women in the target areas, particularly around climate issues affecting their communities. As the project moves through its implementation phase, the 25 Indigenous climate groups have developed 25 climate adaptation project. This initiative is funded by the Government of Canada to address climate-related challenges in the midhill areas of Nepal.

Salasan Nepal conducted a field visit to Kavrepalanchok and Sindhupalchok districts from June 11 to 13, 2025, and signed agreements with 25 CLAN groups.

The Innovative Project Grant Fund has been specifically designed by the 25 climate groups to address the emerging climate-related issues affecting their communities and daily lives. Each proposal under the fund targets a range of pressing environmental challenges, including:

Landslide and flood management
Conservation and management of water resources
Livestock health management, and
Plantation of fruit and multipurpose tree species on abandoned farmlands

To irrigate agriculture land 4 climate groups have adopted the construction of rainwater harvesting ponds and tanks. In addition, the project promotes the use of Indigenous skills, knowledge, and practices to conserve and revitalize traditional ecological wisdom in the project areas. This approach not only enhances climate adaptation but also preserves cultural heritage.

The locally developed projects are expected to help address the climate challenges identified by each group. By implementing their own solutions, communities are empowered to benefit directly from the outcomes. Climate change has already significantly affected the project area, particularly through declining agricultural productivity. This has resulted in longer periods of food insecurity (hunger months) and has forced many to migrate both internally and abroad in search of livelihoods.

Male migration, in particular, has led to increased workloads for women, reducing their participation in decision-making roles within community groups and project committees. While the absence of men has, in some cases, increased women's responsibilities and mobility leading to greater empowerment it has also made them more vulnerable, especially during overnight stays and solo travel.

To combat these challenges, the project promotes:

Increased agricultural production through promotion of organic liquid insectisite using locally available herbs.
The preservation of traditional knowledge and skills through use of locally available resources and plantation of local speciesism
Improved animal health services
The adoption of diversified farming practices on previously abandoned or underused lands

These measures aim to strengthen community resilience, especially in the face of ongoing climate impacts and widespread migration.

2025-06-06 13:01:53

NIWF celebrated World Environment Day

In celebration of World Environment Day 2025, the National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF) successfully organized a community-level event in Bishambhara, Shankharapur Municipality, Kathmandu under the global theme "Beat Plastic Pollution." The objective of the program was to raise awareness about environmental protection and highlight the importance of reducing plastic pollution, especially in rural and Indigenous communities. The event engaged 27 Tamang women farmers from the local Bishambhara Tamang Women Farmers' Group, promoting their role as stewards of sustainable agricultural practices and environmental conservation. As part of the celebration, Bodhi seed malas (Buddha chitta) were distributed to all participating women, symbolizing peace, awareness, and a spiritual connection to nature. This activity was supported through funding from Mama Cash.

The program was graced by the presence of Ms. Suni Lama, Chairperson of NIWF, Ms. Sushila Maya Gole, Treasurer, Ms. Puja Shrestha, Team Leader, Ms. Anju Gurung, Program Officer, Ms. Sanila Lama, Field Coordinator, Ms. Kavita Magar, Intern, as well as Ms. Junta Tamang, Chairperson of the Bishambhara Tamang Women’s Group, and other members of the group.

Reach

Our Reach

Districts

110 +

Municipality

100k +

People reached

25 +

Years of Service

Partners

Our Partners

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