Proceedings of the 2nd World Conference on Gender Equality
Year: 2024
DOI:
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Women Leadership in Nepal
Pema Yangzin Lama
ABSTRACT:
In the landscape of societal progress, few endeavors are as pivotal as the pursuit of gender equality. In Nepal, the journey towards empowering women and promoting their leadership roles has been marked by resilience, determination, and collective effort. From challenging patriarchal norms to championing legislative reforms, Nepalese women have continually shattered barriers and paved the way for a more inclusive and equitable society. This editorial delves into the multifaceted landscape of women’s leadership in Nepal, exploring the challenges faced, the strides made, and the path forward towards a brighter future. Gender Equality in Nepal The role of women in leadership has long been a subject of debate, but as societies worldwide progress in advocating gender equality, the importance of women in executive positions is increasingly recognized. In Nepal, the narrative of women’s leadership is one marked by determination, courage, and resilience. Nepal’s journey towards gender equality saw the emergence of feminist movements in the early 1900s, challenging existing norms and advocating for women’s rights. Later in the 20th century, significant political changes, including the transition from monarchy to a federal democratic republic, created opportunities for discussing human rights, particularly those of women. A sizable country-wide milestone, the Constitution of Nepal (2015), enshrined identical rights for women, the poor, the vulnerable, and the marginalized that became a watershed in the fight for gender equality. Nepal’s 2015 Constitution has been among the most progressive in South Asia for gender equality and the implementation of women’s rights. Today, Nepalese women leaders symbolize resilience in the face of adversity. In a society where traditional gender roles have long dictated women’s potential, Nepalese women leaders have embarked on a transformative journey to break free from these constraints. For instance, Pushpa Kamal Dahal, also known as Prachanda, former Prime Minister, openly addressed the need to empower women in Nepal to combat deeply rooted gender disparities. Women’s Political Leadership: Challenges and Overcoming Barriers Women in Nepal have long experienced high levels of poverty, social exclusion, and marginalization because of their gender. In the past, Nepal operated as a patriarchal society where men held leadership positions in families and were seen as superior to women. This limited women’s participation in societal affairs. Nepali women often occupy lower socio-economic positions than men, facing challenges beyond education and training. Limited access to credit, land ownership, and economic opportunities hinder their advancement. Societal expectations restrict women’s participation in decision-making, sustaining gender imbalances. In rural areas, women engage in labor-intensive subsistence farming with limited access to modern techniques and resources, resulting in lower income. Traditional norms favour male land inheritance, leaving women without property rights and hindering their access to credit. Gender-based violence and discrimination persist due to deep-seated societal norms, often going unreported due to stigma and fear. Overcoming these challenges requires acknowledging societal norms’ impact on women’s leadership potential, essential for fostering gender equality. As these barriers are confronted and overcome, Nepal has the opportunity to create an inclusive environment that empowers women to thrive and shape a brighter future. Women in Nepal have shown remarkable resilience and determination across various domains, from politics to business. They are increasingly taking on leadership roles and challenging stereotypes. For instance, Onsari Gharti Magar, first woman to be the Speaker of Nepalese Parliament, has championed gender-related legislation. Women’s involvement in Nepali politics has been steadily increasing, with advocates like Namrata Poudel, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, and Mina Pandey, the first woman Mayor of Kathmandu. Recognizing and promoting women’s leadership offers numerous benefits, including diverse perspectives that lead to innovative solutions. Research shows that balanced gender representation in leadership enhances efficiency, financial outcomes, and overall well-being. Empowering women in leadership roles can drive positive transformations across sectors. Women’s in Leadership: Examples and EffortsIn the business world, women are making significant strides, establishing successful startups and guiding established companies. Microfinance institutions and government policies have played key roles in empowering women entrepreneurs. Examples include Kunti Shahi, founder of Smart Tech Solution and the Women’s Business Center, and Rita Singh, founder of the IEC College of Art and Fashion and the Rita Singh Foundation. In Nepal’s pursuit of gender equality and women’s empowerment, education and skill development play vital roles. However, challenges go beyond these aspects. Efforts in urban areas aim to improve women’s access to education, recognizing its role in breaking the cycle of poverty and advancing gender equality. Numerous Nepali women are actively working to enhance women’s educational access, understanding its pivotal role in shattering the cycle of impoverishment and promoting gender parity. Education equips women with knowledge and skills that empower them to lead.
keywords: Gender, Equality, Women, Leadership, Nepal