ZONTA, NCELL, UNFPA & UNICEF Nepal launch 16 days against GBV

KATHMANDU: In observance of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, ZONTA, NCELL Foundation, UNFPA and UNICEF Nepal collaborated to host an event focused on raising awareness and driving collective action to end child marriage in Nepal.

The event, held on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, brought together leaders from women-led organizations, the private sector, and key stakeholders to discuss the collective solutions for ending child marriage in Nepal.

The event was opened by Ms. Bina Rana, President of ZONTA, who emphasized the importance of a unified approach to tackling child marriage. Ms. Jee Hyun Rah, UNICEF Deputy Representative to Nepal, and Ms. Kamaala Bista, Gender and Human Rights Specialist from UNFPA Nepal, joined Nepali artist Mr. Prakash Saput and SDG Studio to launch a music video titled “Shir Mai Phurke Ribbon”, produced jointly by UNFPA and UNICEF Nepal to raise awareness among young people about the consequences of child marriage.

Child marriage remains a significant barrier to gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls. In Nepal, one in three girls is married before the age of 18, with devastating consequences for health, education, and economic opportunities. “Child marriage is a human rights violation and requires a multi-sectoral response,” said Dipak Dhakal, Under Secretary, Ministry of Women, Children, and Senior Citizens.

Women-led organizations and feminist movements continue to be at the forefront of addressing gender-based violence, providing crucial insights into the needs of women and girls. Bandana Rana, women’s rights activist and UN CEDAW Committee member, noted, “By prioritizing the diverse needs of girls and women, these organizations have the potential to drive lasting change and promote gender equality.”

The private sector in Nepal can also plays a crucial role in this fight. Through their resources, platforms, and influence, Nepali businesses can help create societal change by promoting awareness, implementing gender-equal policies, and integrating child protection measures into their operations and supply chains. Additionally, private sector partnerships can support economic empowerment programs, providing Nepali girls and women with viable alternatives to early marriage.

Bishakha Lakshmi Khadka, Head of Corporate Communications and CSR at Ncell shared her thoughts “As a leading private sector entity committed to fostering inclusive and equitable communities, we at Ncell believe that addressing gender-based violence is not just a social imperative but a moral responsibility of all. Through partnerships like this, we aim to amplify collective action, empower communities and work towards creating an environment where everyone can thrive.”

As such, a unified approach involving women-led organizations, the private sector, and other key stakeholders is essential to create sustainable solutions that address the root causes of child marriage, such as poverty, lack of education, and limited economic opportunities. This collaboration will ensure a holistic and inclusive strategy for ending child marriage, allowing all stakeholders to contribute their expertise and resources toward this vital cause.

“Gender-based violence remains a harsh reality, exacerbated by rising child marriage rates and the threats of climate change. Through the ‘Zonta Says NO to Violence Against Women’ campaign, we are committed to creating a better world for women, girls, and communities everywhere. Since 2018, Zonta International has proudly supported the UNFPA-UNICEF Global Programme to End Child Marriage, becoming the first private-sector donor to this vital initiative. Zonta Club Kathmandu is honored to partner with UNICEF, UNFPA, and Ncell Foundation in this critical mission for lasting change in the country” says Bina Rana, President of Zonta Club  Kathmandu.

Concluding the symposium, Ms. Jee Hyun Rah from UNICEF Nepal stated, “By joining forces, we aim to break the cycle of child marriage and empower women and girls to reach their full potential. This event marks the beginning of a broader movement toward a more equitable society where all children, especially girls, can live free from violence and discrimination.”