News and Announcement
Recents
Events
The Gen-Z Movement: Intergenerational Pathways for Indigenous Land Rights and State Conflict
On 23 April 2026, the National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF), Focus for Indigenous Girls (FIG), Indigenous Women Legal Awareness Group (INWOLAG), and Kirat Mundum Study Centre organized a side event at the 25th session of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues titled “The Gen-Z Movement: Intergenerational Pathways for Indigenous Land Rights and State Conflict.” The session was moderated by Ms. Machchhe D. Gurung and brought together diverse voices from across the region.
The event featured an engaging dialogue among speakers including Sabnam Lama (FIG/NIWF, Nepal), Twisa Tripura (Indigenous Youth Leader, Bangladesh), Toni Chiran (Asia Indigenous Youth Platform), Shohel Hajong (Asia Indigenous Peoples Pact), and Ritu Thapa (INWOLAG, Nepal). Through their insights and experiences, the discussion explored the intersections of youth-led movements and Indigenous struggles for land, justice, and recognition.
On 23 April 2026, the National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF), Focus for Indigenous Girls (FIG), Indigenous Women Legal Awareness Group (INWOLAG), and Kirat Mundum Study Centre organized a side event at the 25th session of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues titled “The Gen-Z Movement: Intergenerational Pathways for Indigenous Land Rights and State Conflict.” The session was moderated by Ms. Machchhe D. Gurung and brought together diverse voices from across the region.
The event featured an engaging dialogue among speakers, including Sabnam Lama (FIG/NIWF, Nepal), Twisa Tripura (Indigenous Youth Leader, Bangladesh), Toni Chiran (Asia Indigenous Youth Platform), Shohel Hajong (Asia Indigenous Peoples Pact), and Ritu Thapa (INWOLAG, Nepal). Through their insights and experiences, the discussion explored the intersections of youth-led movements and Indigenous struggles for land, justice, and recognition.
2026-04-23
Trainings
NIWF organized a training program on inclusive governance, the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), CEDAW General Recommendation No. 39, and relevant local laws and policies for government officials
On 17 April 2026, the National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF) organized a training program on inclusive governance, the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), CEDAW General Recommendation No. 39, and relevant local laws and policies for government officials of Sahidbhumi Rural Municipality and Ward 7. The program was conducted with the support of the Satoyama Initiative, the Global Environment Facility (GEF), the GEF Small Grants Programme, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
The session was facilitated by Ms. Sushila Maya Gole, Treasurer of NIWF, with active participation from members of three community groups established by NIWF—IPM, Water Source Revival, and Forest Restoration. The program was honored by the presence of Chief Guest Mr. Manoj Rai, Chairperson of Sahidbhumi Rural Municipality, who delivered an in-depth presentation on the municipality’s ongoing efforts to uplift Indigenous Communities, particularly Indigenous Women and Girls. He also highlighted the challenges as the local government.
Mr. Divash Rai from NFDIN shared insights on the Convention on Biological Diversity, highlighting the importance of biodiversity conservation and the impacts of climate change on Indigenous Peoples. Ms. Yasso Kanti Bhattachan, Vice Chairperson of NIWF, provided an overview of CEDAW General Recommendation No. 39. Additionally, Mr. Kamal Kumar Rai, a biodiversity expert, facilitated a group work session on mapping water sources in Sahidbhumi Ward No. 7 to support future water source restoration initiatives.
The training also served as a platform to strengthen coordination between community groups and local government, fostering opportunities for future collaboration and inclusive development.

2026-04-17
Events
leadership training for Indigenous Women and youth
On 16 April 2026, the National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF) successfully conducted a leadership training for Indigenous Women and youth of Sahidbhumi Rural Municipality–7, with support from the Satoyama Initiative, the Global Environment Facility (GEF), the GEF Small Grants Programme, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Participants from three community groups established by NIWF—IPM, Water Source Revival, and Forest Restoration actively engaged in the training. The session was facilitated by NIWF Vice Chairperson Ms. Yasso Kanti Bhattachan, who shared valuable insights on Indigenous identity, culture, traditions, knowledge systems, and the strong relationship Indigenous Peoples maintain with their land and nature.
NIWF Chairperson Ms. Suni Lama led an interactive session on leadership, focusing on the qualities of effective leaders, pathways to becoming one, and the importance of taking proactive roles in advocating for Indigenous rights and community well-being.
The program also included group work with all three groups to reflect on their ongoing project activities and discuss pathways for sustainability beyond the project period ending in September 2026. This exercise strengthened ownership, accountability, and collective leadership among participants. The training concluded with reflections from two participants, who shared key learnings and takeaways from the session.


2026-04-16
Events
Outcome sharing meeting on the Universal Periodic Review (UPR)
On 5 April 2026, National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF), in collaboration with its UPR consortium partners Indigenous Women Legal Awareness Group (INWOLAG) and National Indigenous Disabled Women Association Nepal (NIDWAN), organized a UPR outcome-sharing meeting for its board and staff at Indreni Suites Hotel. The session was facilitated by Ms. Arzoo from INWOLAG and featured a comprehensive presentation by Prof. Hom Yamphu, who also contributed to the drafting and submission of the UPR report.
The presentation and subsequent discussion provided an in-depth overview of the key outcomes of the 4th Universal Periodic Review (UPR), with a particular focus on issues affecting Indigenous Women, access to justice, and disability rights. Participants highlighted critical concerns including land rights, Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC), inheritance rights, and digital safety and security.
The discussion also underscored persistent systemic gaps within Nepal’s law-making processes, noting that they remain largely non-transparent, non-inclusive, and disconnected from the lived realities of Indigenous Communities, with minimal representation of Indigenous voices at the policy formulation stage. The importance of addressing intersectionality within Women’s rights discourse was strongly emphasized.
Furthermore, the meeting stressed the strategic importance for Indigenous organizations such as NIWF, INWOLAG, and NIDWAN to actively engage with the UPR process as a key accountability mechanism. This includes critically monitoring state commitments, questioning government reports, and ensuring that international obligations are translated into meaningful and tangible changes at the community level.
Overall, the meeting served as a significant platform for reflection, learning, and strategic planning, reaffirming the value of the UPR as an advocacy tool for amplifying Indigenous voices and advancing inclusive, rights-based policies in Nepal.
2026-04-05
Events
Addressing Multiple Layers of Discrimination and Injustice Against Dalit and Indigenous Women and Girls Through Transforming Social, Economic, and Legal Systems
On 9 March 2026, the National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF), in collaboration with the Association for Dalit Women’s Advancement of Nepal (ADWAN), successfully organized a parallel event titled “Addressing Multiple Layers of Discrimination and Injustice Against Dalit and Indigenous Women and Girls Through Transforming Social, Economic, and Legal Systems" at the UN Church Center, 10th floor.
The program began with a warm welcome from Suni Lama Chairperson of NIWF, who greeted the speakers with “Khada,” an Indigenous way of honoring and welcoming guests. The Chief Guest, Lok Bahadur Thapa, Permanent Representative of Nepal to the United Nations and President of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), highlighted the importance of addressing systemic discrimination and strengthening inclusive policies for marginalized communities.
The session was moderated by Sumitra Manandhar, who guided the discussion and facilitated meaningful dialogue among the speakers and participants.
The panel featured distinguished speakers who shared their expertise and perspectives. Dr. Bishnu Maya Pariyar spoke about the structural discrimination and social barriers faced by Dalit women and girls in Nepal and beyond. Ms. Pooja Shrestha, Team Leader at NIWF, highlighted the lived realities, challenges, and resilience of Indigenous women and girls, emphasizing the need for stronger representation and inclusive policy frameworks. Yvonne O'Neal, representative of the Africa Development Interchange Network, shared insights on the challenges faced by marginalized women and girls globally, drawing connections between struggles across regions.
The event was attended by donor partners, leaders, activists, and representatives from civil society organizations. An open floor discussion allowed participants to raise questions and engage in conversations on the rights of Indigenous and Dalit women and girls, as well as the ongoing advocacy efforts of NIWF and ADWAN in advancing social justice and equality.
The discussion concluded with a shared commitment to continue strengthening collective advocacy and collaboration to address intersecting forms of discrimination and to promote the rights, dignity, and leadership of Indigenous and Dalit women and girls.
Supported By:
2026-03-09
Events
(NIWF) team actively participated in a series of donor events, parallel sessions, dinner meetings, and networking engagements during the Commission on the Status of Women 70th Session.
From 9–13 March 2026, the National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF) team actively participated in a series of donor events, parallel sessions, dinner meetings, and networking engagements during the Commission on the Status of Women 70th Session.
At a time when the world is facing multiple crises from climate change to shrinking civic spaces for women’s rights being present at global platforms like CSW is more important than ever. These spaces allow Indigenous Women’s voices, knowledge, and leadership to be heard in conversations that shape global policies and actions.
During the week, NIWF met with the MADRE team, our longtime donor and participated in their parallel event and an inspiring evening of Resistance and Renewal. The team also joined events hosted by the International Indigenous Women’s Forum (FIMI) focusing on CEDAW General Recommendation No. 39 and key issues affecting Indigenous Women. NIWF also participated in a parallel event organized by Womenkind Worldwide, one of our new partners.
The NIWF team also had the opportunity to meet with the President of the United Nations Economic and Social Council, H.E. Lok Bahadur Thapa, highlighting the importance of strengthening Indigenous Women’s leadership and participation in global decision-making spaces.
Through these engagements, NIWF continues to build solidarity, strengthen partnerships, and advocate for the rights, knowledge, and leadership of Indigenous Women at the global level.
2026-03-09
Events
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.



2025-07-09
Events
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.


2025-07-06
Events
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.


2025-06-09
Events
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.




Supported By:
2025-06-05