KATHMANDU: Nepal pledged its commitment to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) in 2048 BS.
However, lawmakers are expressing deep concern over the lack of effective implementation of the convention.
During a recent program organized by the Forum for Women, Law, and Development on Nepal’s engagement with the UN CEDAW committee, Chairperson of the Legislation Management Committee of the National Assembly, Jayanti Rai, highlighted that women continue to face challenges in securing equal rights and dignity.
She emphasized that the non-implementation of laws and conventions remains a significant obstacle.
Lawmaker Kamala Pant remarked that ensuring equal rights is challenging, particularly when oppressors hold positions of power or influence, while victims often lack support.
Similarly, lawmaker Bishnu Devi Pudashaini noted that although the constitution guarantees equal rights for men and women, the reality of implementation falls short.
Lawmaker Bagawati Neupane stressed the importance of taking action against those who provide false reports to the CEDAW committee.
Sabin Shrestha, Executive Director at FWLD, highlighted that despite Nepal’s commitment to CEDAW without reservations three decades ago, the lack of implementation remains a significant setback for the nation.
It is worth noting that while Nepal became a party to CEDAW shortly after the restoration of democracy in 2046 BS, neighboring countries like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh had reservations, particularly regarding Article 16.
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