Kathmandu, Mar. 8
Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba has
stressed the need to safeguard the achievements of Nepal’s women's movement
while striving for further progress.
In a message marking International Women’s
Day on Saturday, she highlighted Nepal’s notable advancements in women's rights
and gender equality.
In her message, FM Dr. Rana pointed out
that the constitution guarantees 33 per cent representation of women in the
federal and provincial parliaments and 40 per cent at the local level. However,
she underscored the necessity of policy reforms to enhance the capacities of
rural and marginalised women and to ensure a better future for adolescent
girls.
Acknowledging Nepal’s significant
achievements in women's empowerment, FM Dr. Rana said that further improvements
were still required. “Even today, women continue to face various forms of
discriminatory violence and obstacles simply because of their gender.
Overcoming these challenges demands collective efforts from all sectors,” she said
while reaffirming her commitment to advancing women's rights, entitlements, and
empowerment.
FM Dr. Rana also called for improved access
to reproductive and mental health services for women, as well as initiatives to
promote financial independence through loans, technology, and skill development
programmes.
Likewise, she said that women are
disproportionately affected by climate change and urged the government to take
serious action on the issue.
According to her, Beijing Declaration and
Platform for Action had brought about transformative changes in women's rights
and legal protections, and Nepali women had already played a crucial role in
translating opportunities into success. “Nepali women have established
themselves as leaders in their families, society, and the nation. However, much
remains to be done in advancing women's rights,” read the message.
She further called on all stakeholders to
unite in the fight for gender equality, justice, and the eradication of
violence against women.
As in previous years, International Women’s
Day is being observed globally, including in Nepal, under the theme of ‘Women’s
Rights, Equality, and Empowerment'.
Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 9 March 2025.
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