Nepal: National Workshop Focuses on Implementation of Second National Action Plan on UN Security Council Resolution 1325 and 1820 relating to Women, Peace and Security 

Kathmandu, Nepal/07 May 2023: Gender-based violence, including domestic violence, sexual harassment, and child marriage, remain pressing concerns in South Asia. In response, it is critical to address deep-rooted social norms and transforming attitudes towards gender roles. Many victims of gender-based violence do not report the crimes they have experienced due to fear of retribution, lack of trust in the justice system, or stigma associated with being a victim of violence. In Nepal, there is increasing recognition on the importance of advancing women's rights, ending gender-based violence, and empowering women to achieve true gender equality.

UNODC, in partnership with the Ministry of Home Affairs, conducted a national workshop for the implementation of the second National Action Plan (NAP II) on United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 and 1820 on Women, Peace, and Security. The workshop, held in Kathmandu, witnessed the participation of 143 stakeholders from various sectors.

The NAP II encompasses four overarching goals: participation, protection and prevention, promotion, and relief and recovery. Additionally, it emphasizes resource management, monitoring, and evaluation to ensure the plan's effectiveness.

The national workshop provided an orientation to stakeholders from multiple sectors on the proposed structure, work plan, and key actions outlined in the NAP II. The workshop also fostered collaboration among different stakeholders, encouraging their active engagement in the implementation process. Key government entities, including the Office of the Prime Minister, the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, the Ministry of Women, Children, and Senior Citizen, and the National Planning Commission, expressed their commitment to the effective implementation of the NAP II. During the workshop, the participants discussed and shared Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and various tools developed for the successful execution of the action plan.

Honourable Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister, Narayan Kaji Shrestha, expressed his appreciation for the collective efforts and urged all stakeholders to be accountable for the implementation of the NAP II in the days ahead.

The UN Resident Coordinator in Nepal, Ms. Hanaa Singer-Hamdy, emphasized the importance of translating the NAP II into action, stating that it should not remain merely a piece of paper but rather become a reality that brings about a positive difference in the lives of women. She urged all stakeholders to approach the implementation process with the same enthusiasm and dedication as was demonstrated during the development of the plan.

The workshop served as a crucial platform for fostering collaboration, coordination, and commitment among various stakeholders in Nepal's efforts to promote women's rights, peace, and security. The effective implementation of the NAP II is vital in ensuring the active participation of women in decision-making processes, safeguarding their rights, and creating a more inclusive and equitable society.

The partnership between UNODC and the Ministry of Home Affairs reflects a shared commitment to advancing the Women, Peace, and Security agenda. Through collective efforts and sustained dedication, Nepal aims to create a safer and more prosperous future, where women's voices are heard and their contributions are valued.

This activity contributed to SDG 5 and SDG 16: https://sdg-tracker.org/