While participation of women in the different dimensions of Nepal society is increasing, supported through policy and legislative reforms, across the country there are significant difference in the pace and breadth of change and gender inequality in areas such as literacy and education, financial security and domestic violence are still prevalent.

Nepal Red Cross Society is implementing the CS-WASH funded Sanitation, Hygiene and Water Management Project in the remote, far-western region of Bahjang. The project has included a gender focus including strengthening the role of women in community decision making and addressing women’s hygiene needs.  This work is challenging traditional attitudes including the practice of Chaupadhi where women are segregated during menstruation. Regular visits by local leaders in the communities to advocate on gender issues has built awareness with both men and women. Women are now equally represented on WASH Committees, active participants in community activities and are now able to present their ideas in the meetings and gatherings.

To celebrate International Women's Day in 2018 local mothers groups coordinated a range of activities including speech competitions, games among school students and Deuda (local folk song) competition. Six mother groups performed Deuda songs that disseminated messages on women's rights, empowerment, capacity building and messages against women violence.

Speeches from community leaders reinforced that while the Nepal government continues to support women through policies and guidelines, families, communities and workplaces should also support and encourage women to apply their skills and express their ideas and that they can hold important leadership positions. Pandhra Bahadur Singh, local political leader stressed that “men and women are two wheels of bullock cart so no one should undermine women's work and their capabilities. If they are provided with equal opportunities and education, then they can also co-contribute for the development of the community”.   The focus on education was also echoed by the Secretary of Swasthya Mother Group stating that “if a women is educated then her entire family is educated”.