After nearly 250 years of monarchy and a decade of civil strife, Nepal is in the fragile process of establishing itself as one of the world’s youngest republics. The fledging democracy faces deep-rooted social disparities, illiteracy, gender- and caste-based discrimination and increasing threat of natural disaster due to climate change. Addressing the needs of thousands of Bhutanese refugees of Nepalese descent and new arrivals from Tibet presents a further challenge.
DWS Nepal started work in Nepal in 1984 with water resource and women’s development programs in the Baglung and Ilam districts. It currently serves more than 250,000 people through over 150 village development committees.
Gender, environment, health, and HIV and AIDS are major cross-cutting issues reflected in all DWS Nepal programs. Current focus areas are:
- Emergency response and disaster risk management
- Sustainable livelihood for economic and social empowerment
- Peace, reconciliation and human rights
Emergency Response
In addition to its assistance program for Bhutanese refugees and Tibetan new arrivals, DWS Nepal organizes humanitarian response to natural disasters. It has been implementing community-based disaster preparedness in its development and rehabilitation programs since 1996, and promotes small-scale flood mitigation measures.
Sustainable Livelihoods
DWS Nepal’s sustainable livelihood program focuses on social empowerment, economic growth and quality of life. It responds to needs identified by community members and involves the community during all stages of the program. Projects include micro-credit and agricultural livelihood initiatives, gender-sensitive education on HIV and sexually transmitted infections, and advocacy for Dalit rights.
Peace and Human Rights
DWS Nepal advocates for the rights of poor and oppressed communities, particularly the Dalits, and educates about human rights. It has played an important role in freeing and rehabilitating bonded agricultural laborers. DWS Nepal also promotes justice for internally displaced persons, ethnic minorities and refugees.
For further information please contact:
Mr Roland Kilian Schlott, Program Officer
Mr Marceline P. Rozario, Country Representative
See Also
DWS Nepal Web site | Department for World Service | DWS Country, Regional and Associate Programs
