Nari Dibas 2023: Date, History, Facts about Nepal’s Gender Inequality

Nepal celebrates Nari Dibas, or International Women’s Day, on March 8 to recognise the significant contributions of the country’s feminist movement. On this national public holiday, Nepalese women from all walks of life are uplifted, supported, and applauded. In the capital city of Kathmandu, the National Women’s Commission and the Ministry of Women organise celebrations. In terms of women’s empowerment and gender equality, the day also highlights the country’s long path ahead.

The background of Nari Dibas

A Hindu religious leader founded Nepal’s first female organisation, Nari Samiti, in 1920. She sought to abolish Sati Pratha, a historical Hindu practise in which a widow commits suicide by placing herself atop the funeral pyre of her deceased spouse, fueled by her faith in the religion she preached. She endured ridicule, rejection, and disenfranchisement from the members of her community, but she ultimately succeeded in outlawing the practise in her country.

Her name was Yogmaye Neupane, and she began the century-long feminist uprising in the Nepalese republic. In subsequent years, the Nepalese women’s movement has been a collection of social and political campaigns intended at achieving a more just and equitable society.

The most significant development occurred in 1996, when thousands of people united to overthrow Nepal’s 240-year-old monarchy. 2007 saw the adoption of a progressive and inclusive constitution, which was a reward for the women’s participation in the formulation of Nepal’s republic.

Although Nepalese women in the twenty-first century have the constitutional right to vote, own property, and make decisions regarding their reproductive health, the country has a long way to go. As they forge a future for themselves, Nepalese women confront a myriad of challenges, ranging from the escalation of domestic violence to human trafficking.

On Nari Dibas, we consider the challenges women and girls confront in our society. The United Nations Women’s Organization believes that through increased awareness, political leverage, and cogent policies, we can abandon patriarchy in the 21st century and create a sustainable system of life for all people.

International Women’s Day 2023: Theme, History, Famous Quotes

5 HEARTBREAKING FACTS ABOUT NEPAL’S GENDER INEQUALITY

The Gender Equality Index positions Nepal 115th out of 162.

Nepal has one of the highest child marriage rates in the globe, with 40 percent of girls marrying before the age of 18.

According to a study, 51.9% of Nepalese women have experienced physical or mental violence, and 46.2% have been sexually assaulted.

In Nepal, 81 percent of married women are victims of domestic violence by their spouses or family members.

There is no law in the Nepalese constitution that adequately addresses sexual harassment or assault against women.

NARI DIBAS DATES