13th July, unveiled a cornucopia of activities that captivated our hearts and minds. From the exploration of the Position Paper to thought-provoking discussions on consequential subjects, and culminating with the unveiling of our book by the esteemed Vice-President, our plates were brimming with intellectual nourishment.
With the aroma of a delightful morning meal still lingering, we eagerly gathered at the conference venue, where our revered resource persons eagerly awaited the arrival of our honorable guests. The richness of our Mother Tongue, the significance of the Convention on Biodiversity (CBD), the invaluable role of Indigenous Peoples (IPs) and Indigenous Women in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), and the transformative Paris Agreement of 2016 were just a few among the many captivating topics that ignited passionate discussions. In these exchanges, knowledge flourished, and profound understanding bloomed.
However, the crescendo of the day, the apex of our collective journey, arrived with the soft launch of a precious tome entitled “Elected Women Representatives of Federal, Provincial, and Local Level 2029.” This remarkable moment unfolded beneath the watchful gaze of the Vice-President, Ram Sahaya Yadav, whose presence bestowed a halo of distinction upon the occasion.
As the pages of the book unfurled, it became a tangible embodiment of honor, paying homage to the tireless dedication and extraordinary achievements of the elected women representatives. It left us enriched, both in knowledge and in spirit. With profound insights etched into our consciousness and a deep sense of unity forged through shared conversations, the National Conference on Indigenous Women’s Rights and Leadership at the Policy Level continued to sow the seeds of empowerment and change.
Vice-Chairperson to NIWF Yasso Kanti Bhattachan, is currently attending the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues Twenty-second Session: 17-28 April 2023. Division for Inclusive Social Development (DISD).
April 16, 2023, the opening prayers were performed by the NIWF Vice-Chairperson at the Rosa Luxembourg office in the traditional Thakali direction with the delegates from Sudan, Panama, Philippines, USA,MADRE, and the RLS team.
With S. James Anaya, an internationally recognized scholar, and author in the areas of international human rights and issues concerning indigenous peoples.
With Former Chair of Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), Glaydias Acosta.
With the invaluable support of the Mama Cash Fund, the National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF) and the Mukta Kamalari Bikash Manch (Dang) joined forces for a crucial Assessment of Nepal’s Implementation of the 3rd Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Recommendations. The assessment delved into critical issues encompassing climate change and gender equality, trafficking, bonded labor, women’s inclusion and participation, and the rights of indigenous peoples.
The Mid-Term Assessment for the UPR was presented by Professor Hom Prasad Yamphu Rai, a respected lecturer in Anthropology at Tribhuvan University. NIWF’s Vice Chairperson, Yasso Kanti Bhattachan, skillfully moderated the Open Floor Discussion during the assessment.
The collaboration between NIWF and Mukta Kamalari Bikash Manch, with the support of Mama Cash, underscores the importance of collective efforts in promoting human rights and addressing pressing social challenges. The valuable insights and contributions of all the representatives involved have enriched the discussion on the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Recommendations.
NIWF extends its heartfelt appreciation to Mama Cash for their support, Mukta Kamalari Bikash Manch for their valuable partnership, and all the representatives for their unwavering commitment to advancing human rights in Nepal. The collaborative endeavor demonstrates the power of partnerships and collective action in shaping a more inclusive and equitable future for all.
The World Social Forum (WSF) is a testament for Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and grassroots movements worldwide that "Another World is Possible". Since its inception in Brazil in 2001, WSF has served as a counterpoint to the narratives of globalization promoted by events like the World Economic Forum in Davos. It has quickly become a space where diverse voices converge to advocate for social, economic, and environmental justice.
Moreover, the panel highlighted the unique challenges faced by Indigenous women in accessing resources and asserting their rights. These challenges underscored the importance of collaboration between governments, Indigenous communities, and stakeholders. By fostering stronger partnerships, we can work towards achieving ecological justice and ensuring equitable outcomes in natural resource management.
The event at WSF was more than just a panel discussion; it was a platform for amplifying Indigenous voices and advocating for meaningful change. It emphasized the need for solidarity and mutual respect in addressing the interconnected challenges of environmental degradation, cultural preservation, and social justice.
As we reflect on the discussions and insights shared at the World Social Forum, let us commit ourselves to supporting Indigenous communities in their quest for justice and sustainability. By standing in solidarity with Indigenous peoples, we can build a more equitable and sustainable world for future generations.
National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF) launched the Indigenous Girls Opportunity Fund (IGOF) in 2023 to champion equal access to education for Indigenous Girls. Dedicated to supporting these young learners, IGOF offers educational assistance to selected candidates from Marginalized and endangered Communities, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Emphasizing empowerment through education, IGOF aims to uplift and transform lives by providing essential educational support to those who need it most.
On April 23, 2024, NIWF’s team made a meaningful trip to Sankharapur as part of their ongoing commitment to the Indigenous Girls Opportunity Fund (IGOF) initiative launched in 2023. NIWF distributed essential stationery items and school uniforms to the two selected candidates who had received scholarships through IGOF. NIWF team held a brief yet significant meeting with the Vice-Principal of the school. This meeting served as an opportunity to engage with the school administration and gain valuable insights into the academic journey and progress of the two scholarship recipients. The Vice-Principal shared updates on the students' studies, highlighting not only the challenges they faced but also the achievements after the scholarship. This interaction not only reinforced NIWF's commitment to supporting these young learners but also allowed us to better understand the impact of their educational assistance.
Through the IGOF initiative, NIWF aims to empower Indigenous Girls by providing them with the resources and opportunities they need to succeed academically and build a brighter future for themselves and their Communities. In addition to distributing stationery items and school uniforms to the scholarship recipients, NIWF also provided ration supplies to support the families of the two candidates during their visit to Sankharapur on April 23, 2024.
On April 26, 2024, the National Indigenous Women Forum-NIWF, in collaboration with UNDP, hosted a gathering to share two reports:A Report on the Situation of Gender-based Violence against the Chepang Women of Ichchhakamana Rural Municipality in Chitwan, and another "A Policy Review of Ichchhakamana Rural Municipality’s Policies and Programmes for FY 2023/2024 (2079/2080 BS) from Gender Equality and Social Inclusion and Indigenous Perspectives". Hon. Kiran Kumar Sah, Chair of the Women and Social Affairs Committee of Nepal's House of Representatives, graced the event, which was chaired by Ms. Suni Lama, NIWF's chairperson, alongside Mr. Indra B. Poudel, secretary of the Women and Social Affairs Committee, and Mr. Divas Rai, General Secretary of NEFIN, as special guests.
This gathering served as a platform not only to unveil the final findings and recommendations encapsulated within the reports but also to foster an environment conducive to the exchange of insightful suggestions and perspectives from the diverse array of participants. Representatives from various organizations, including NIWF-Federation, INOWLAG, experts, Nepal Disabled Women Association (NDWA), and the Feminist Dalit Organization (FEDO), contributed to the enriching discourse.
Through this collaborative effort, the event aimed not only to shed light on the pressing issues faced by Indigenous Women but also to catalyze actionable steps toward fostering greater gender equality, social inclusion, and Indigenous empowerment within the fabric of local policies and programs.
National Indigenous Women Forum(NIWF) with the support from MADRE, celebrated the officially inauguration of a library for the Bankariya, Chepang, and Tamang children of Musedhap located in Ward No. 4 of Manahari Rural Municipality, Makwanpur district. With the primary aim of providing a safe haven for children to explore and expand their knowledge, the library's inception embodies a commitment to educational advancement.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was graced by esteemed figures including Mr. Prakash Thapa, the Ward Chairperson, Ms. Suni Lama, Chairperson of NIWF, and Ms. Yasso Kanti Bhattachan, Vice-Chairperson of NIWF. This marked marked the auspicious commencement of the library's official operations, signifying a pivotal moment for the Local Community's educational landscape.
NIWF provided essential items such as shoes, bags, notebooks, pencils, pens, and geometry boxes to a total of 41 children, including those from Bankariya, Chepang, and Tamang Communities. NIWF also provided book cupboards, cushions, tables, carpets and whiteboards for the library. Additionally, "Room to Read," an organization, contributed 300 books for the library enriching the library's resources. Through these collaborative efforts, the library emerges not only as a physical space but as a beacon of hope and opportunity, poised to empower generations to come through the transformative power of education.
Notable speakers, like Vidur Thapa from the Manahari Rural Municipality's Education Department, Ashok Sujan Shrestha, Chairperson of Federation of Nepalese Indigenous Journalists (FONIJ) Makwanpur, and Sushila Gole, Treasurer of National Indigenous Women Forum, echoed the profound significance of education in shaping the future of the younger generation.
The Bankariyas are endangered Indigenous Community of Nepal with a mere population of 180 according to the 2021 Census out of which only 86 of them speak their Mother tongue. In the 2011 National Census, Bankariyas were not recorded as they were not recognized till then. Two decades ago, the Bankariyas, once nomadic hunter-gatherers, originated from Chureghanch, a remote dense forest in the Chure range. In 1995, only 12 Bankariyas were reported living a nomadic lifestyle in the area. However, following the ten-year Maoist insurgency in Nepal, their freedom of movement in the Chure forests was severely restricted. This compelled them to abandon their ancestral lands and migrate to the lowlands for refuge.
May 6, 2024 (Baisakh 24, 2081) stands as a momentous day for the Indigenous Communities of Nepal, marking a significant achievement in their ongoing struggle for recognition and inclusion. Amidst a vibrant gathering in Basantapur, Kathmandu, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal made a historic announcement regarding the provincial government's decision to use Nepali, Tamang and Nepal Bhasha (Newari language) as the languages of official business across the province. To commemorate this milestone and heighten public awareness, the provincial government of Bagmati Province has declared May 6, 2024, a public holiday. This decision not only signifies linguistic diversity but also represents a significant step towards recognizing and honoring the cultural heritage of Indigenous Peoples within the region.
Ms. Suni Lama, Chairperson of National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF), and Ms. Yasso Kanti Bhattachan, Vice-Chairperson of NIWF along with Government delegate Dr. Rajendra KC, Joint Secretary at Ministry of Forests and Environment, participated in the Twenty-Sixth meeting of the Subsidiary Body on Scientific, Technical and Technological Advice (SBSTTA-26) of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) held in Nairobi, Kenya 2024. The Subsidiary Body on Scientific, Technical and Technological Advice (SBSTTA) is a subsidiary body of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). Its main role is to provide the Conference of the Parties (COP) with timely advice related to the implementation of the Convention. SBSTTA addresses various scientific and technical aspects of biodiversity conservation, sustainable use, and equitable sharing of the benefits arising from genetic resources.
National Indigenous Women Forum(NIWF) in collaboration with Indigenous Peoples representatives of NDN Collective(Canada, USA, Mexico), IITC2, Qe’qchi People of Laguna, (Belize), Jamii Asilia Center(Africa Region, Kenya), and the Inuit Circumpolar Council submitted Indigenous Peoples’ Position Statement for the separation of the terms Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities(regularly referenced as IPLC), to prevent further conflation and undermining of Indigenous Peoples’ rights frameworks.
In the position paper, they made the following recommendations at the Twenty-Sixth meeting of the Subsidiary Body on Scientific, Technical and Technological Advice (SBSTTA-26) of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD): Promote respect for, recognition of, and full application of Indigenous Peoples’ Rights, Update working methods, Ensure accurate data and relevant information, Avoid Discrimination, Use the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples as the minimum standard, Reform procedural rules, Adopt distinctions-based policies, Utilize distinction-based language.
This position statement was submitted to provide resolution and clarity to the conflation of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLC) and to respond to the motion made by the Democratic Republic of Congo, at the SBSTTA26, to maintain this conflation.
National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF) launched the Indigenous Girls Opportunity Fund (IGOF) in 2023 to champion equal access to education for Indigenous Girls. Dedicated to supporting these young learners, IGOF offers educational assistance to selected candidates from Marginalized and endangered Communities, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Emphasizing empowerment through education, IGOF aims to uplift and transform lives by providing essential educational support to those who need it most.
In 2024, National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF) selected two candidates from Ward No. 9 of Kalinchowk Rural Municipality in Dolakha district for the Indigenous Girls Opportunity Fund (IGOF) scholarship. The selection process involved comprehensive interviews conducted by NIWF staff, assessing the candidates' economic status and academic interests. The interviews included discussions with both the students and their parents. Additionally, NIWF staff visited the candidates' homes to ensure a thorough evaluation of their suitability for the scholarship. 
On May 16, 2024, National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF) traveled to Dolakha to provide necessary stationery items to the two selected candidates. The team visited the candidates' school and held a brief meeting with the teachers. During the meeting, they informed the teachers about the Indigenous Girls Opportunity Fund (IGOF) and explained the selection process for the candidates. Following the meeting, the school principal presented the students with the stationery items provided by NIWF.
Photo description: The Principal of Shree Kalika Secondary School providing stationery items to the two IGOF candidates.
Photo Description: Homes of the two IGOF candidates in Kalinchowk Rural Municipality Ward No. 9 in Dolakha District.
On May 17, 2024, National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF), supported by Asia Pacific Forum on Women, Law and Development (APWLD), conducted a consultation meeting on the "Preliminary Position Paper Draft on the Inclusive and Sustainable Implementation of the Reintegration Programme 2079" in Chautara Sagachokgadhi Municipality. The event gathered local stakeholders, including human rights defenders, journalists, government representatives, local NGOs, media, and the SaMi Project, to discuss the effective economic reintegration of Returnee Migrant Women and Indigenous Women in the municipality.
Sanu Maya Tamang, an Indigenous Returnee Migrant Women (IRMW) representative, presented the preliminary position paper draft. Following the presentation, participants provided insights, status updates, and constructive feedback. Their suggestions, comments, and queries were noted for potential inclusion in the revised position paper. The meeting also introduced mechanisms and strategies to the "Laganshil Adiwasi Mahila Samuha", focusing on how they can collectively support Returnee Migrant Women throughout the municipality, beyond just Wards 1 and 5.
The session concluded with the leader of the Group addressing all recommendations and suggestions made by the local stakeholders, ensuring their concerns and ideas were acknowledged and considered for future action.
Additionally, storybooks were distributed to the participants.
In 2018-2020, National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF), conducted the Feminist Participatory Action Research (FPAR) that revealed the gendered impacts of the Sunkoshi-II Hydropower Dam that the Mahji Indigenous Community was facing. Along the course of the participatory study, it was determined that the Indigenous Women in the target site for the development project are unaware of the construction that will threaten their human rights, lives and livelihood including those of the others in the Communities. Currently, not much is known about the status of the Sunkoshi-II and Sunkoshi-III projects. Public hearings and consultations have supposedly been announced where various groups and sectors were encouraged to participate and chime in with regards to the possible impact of the development project. However, with the lack of diverse sources for news or updates on the hydropower dam, the development projects appear to remain shrouded in secrecy and lack of transparency.
On 30th May 2024, National Indigenous Women Forum(NIWF) in collaboration with Asia Pacific Forum on Women, Law and Development (APWLD) and Center for Economic and Social Rights (CESR) conducted a press release on the findings of "Women Human Rights Impact Assessment (WHRIA) Pilot Test: Addressing Gendered Impacts of Development Projects". “The Sunkoshi river is connected to our identity and existence; if the hydropower project destroys the river, our existence, identity – language, rituals, culture – will be destroyed as well.” This was the resounding call of the Women from Kunauri and Bhatauli Communities who lamented the life-changing impacts of the Sunkoshi hydropower dam. Indigenous Communities are facing the threats of forced displacement and the subsequent loss of livelihoods, potential discrimination in enjoyment of economic and social rights, and the disruption to the beliefs and practice of cultural rituals and traditions that are essential rights of the Majhi Indigenous Peoples. Women will also face additional struggle of fending for their family.
From June 11-13, 2024, Ms. Saraswati Sherpa, the Program Officer of the National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF), attended the 2nd Indigenous and Local Knowledge Dialogue for the Global Environment Outlook 7 (GEO-7) held in Oaxaca, Mexico. This event was a significant milestone in the effort to incorporate the perspectives of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities into the GEO-7 report. The dialogue aimed to enhance the preparation of the GEO-7 assessment by integrating Indigenous Knowledge (IK) and Local Knowledge (LK), which are vital for a comprehensive understanding of environmental challenges and solutions. The 2nd IK&LK Dialogue is a follow-up to the first dialogue held earlier in 2024, which took place virtually. These dialogues are part of a broader initiative to ensure that the insights and wisdom of Indigenous and local communities are reflected in global environmental assessments. The inclusion of IK&LK is crucial for developing sustainable and culturally relevant strategies to address environmental issues.
The Global Environment Outlook (GEO) is a series of reports produced by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) that review the state and direction of the global environment. These reports are developed through a global process involving regional, national, and local inputs from around the world. GEO reports provide an authoritative assessment of the environmental challenges facing the planet and offer solutions based on scientific analysis and the knowledge of diverse communities. The program on Indigenous Knowledge and Local Knowledge Dialogue supports the preparation of the GEO-7 report by providing a platform for Indigenous and local perspectives. This approach acknowledges the value of traditional ecological knowledge and the lived experiences of communities who are often on the frontlines of environmental change. By incorporating IK&LK, GEO-7 aims to offer more holistic and inclusive solutions to global environmental issues.
In summary, the 2nd IK&LK Dialogue for GEO-7 in Oaxaca, attended by Ms. Saraswati Sherpa, underscores the importance of integrating diverse knowledge systems into global environmental assessments. This initiative by UNEP reflects a commitment to inclusive and participatory processes in addressing the complex environmental challenges of our time.
Photo Description: NIWF's Program Officer Ms. Saraswati Sherpa sharing her insights.
Photo Description: Offerings from the participants in Day 1.
The High Level Political Forum (HLPF) is the main UN platform on sustainable development. The theme for 2024 was ‘Reinforcing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and eradicating poverty in times of multiple crises: The effective delivery of sustainable, resilient and innovative solutions’. National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF)'s Chairperson Ms.Suni Lama, Vice-Chair Ms. Yasso Kanti Bhattachan and Member of Gandaki Province Hon. Bimala Gauchan participated at the High Level Political Forum 2024, from 8th July to 18th July 2024 in UN Women Headquarters, New York.
Ms. Yasso Kanti Bhattachan, Vice-Chair of NIWF, was a speaker at the side event titled "Mapping the Path to Feminist Climate Justice: Redefining the Pact of the Future." This side event was organized by Women Engage for a Common Future (WECF), FEMNET, Women Environmental Programme (WEP); Women’s Major Group, WomenPower2030, Asia Pacific Forum on Women, Law and Development(APWLD), La Fundación para Estudio e Investigación de la Mujer (FEIM), GEF Action Coalition on Feminist Action for Climate Justice convened by UN Women.
She provided valuable insights from the perspective of Indigenous Women and offered several recommendations. Ms. Bhattachan emphasized the necessity of addressing intersectionality in any climate action policy, plan, or program. She discussed the significant impact of climate change on Indigenous Peoples in Nepal, highlighting how the livelihoods of Indigenous Women have been adversely affected. Moreover, Ms. Bhattachan pointed out that Indigenous Communities often perceive climate change as a natural phenomenon due to their limited awareness of Sustainable Development Goal 13, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) at the grassroots level. This lack of awareness underscores the need for more inclusive and accessible climate education and advocacy efforts.
HLPF is a crucial platform for Indigenous People because it ensures their voices are included in global policy discussions, allowing them to influence decisions that impact their Communities directly. HLPF provides opportunity for Indigenous Peoples to influence policy development and build their capacity for effective international advocacy. Overall, the HLPF plays a vital role in ensuring that Indigenous Perspectives are recognized and valued in sustainable development efforts. So it is important for Indigenous People to participate in HLPF.