Shoumya Risal
Lawyer and Legislative Researcher
From my experience as a young woman in legislative research and policy drafting, I have seen firsthand that acceptance is a major factor in advancing gender equality in the law and policymaking arena. Young women not only deserve but are equally qualified to sit at policy and legal drafting tables -opinionated, capable, and instrumental in shaping governance, politics, finance, or every other sector. This must be acknowledged, normalized, actively encouraged, and not treated as an exception.
Reforming political and institutional cultures, shifting societal norms, and dismantling deeply rooted gender stereotypes is not optional but essential. Too often, women in decision-making, decision-influencing and leadership roles face intimidation, exclusion and subtle discouragement at every turn. They are made to feel overwhelmed, as if they don’t belong. But they do. They always have. Women who have already broken barriers and reached positions of influence should not have to constantly prove their worth or battle self-doubt simply because the system was not built for them. Creating an environment where women’s expertise is valued without question will not only empower those leading today but also inspire young girls to step forward, take charge, and accelerate action for gender equality.
Nira Joshi
Co-founder, AN. holding
Accelerating action for gender equality requires a multi-faceted approach that tackles systemic barriers, challenges biases, and ensures equal opportunities for all. One of the most effective ways is through education. Providing equal access to quality education for girls and boys empowers individuals and helps break the cycle of discrimination. Education fosters awareness and equips women with the skills needed to participate in decision-making processes.
Workplace policies also play a crucial role. Companies and institutions must implement fair hiring practices, equal pay policies, and leadership programs that support women’s advancement. Addressing the gender pay gap and ensuring representation in leadership positions can create more inclusive work environments. Governments should also enforce laws against discrimination and gender-based violence while promoting policies such as paid parental leave and affordable childcare, which allow women to balance career and family responsibilities. Challenging gender stereotypes through media and community engagement is another key strategy. The way women and men are portrayed in films, advertisements, and news influences societal attitudes. Promoting positive and diverse representations can help shift perceptions and break down harmful norms.
Lastly, men and boys must be active allies in gender equality efforts. Encouraging them to challenge sexism, support women in leadership, and advocate for shared responsibilities at home can foster long-term societal change. Achieving gender equality requires collaboration at all levels—individual, corporate, and governmental—to create lasting and meaningful progress.
Monica Adhikari
Miss Globe Nepal 2024
Gender equality is an important issue in Nepal that needs quick action to address the differences between men and women. To make progress, we need to focus on improving laws, education, job opportunities, and involving men in the process.
One important step is to improve how laws protecting women’s rights are enforced. Nepal already has good laws, but they need to be better put into action so that women can easily get justice, especially in cases of violence and discrimination. Education is also a key factor, as awareness campaigns can help challenge traditions like child marriage and violence against women. Ensuring girls have the same chances for education will help them break free from poverty. Another important step is giving women more opportunities to work and start their own businesses. Providing loans, training, and leadership programs can help women become financially independent and contribute to the country’s growth. Most importantly, men and boys must be involved in supporting gender equality. Encouraging them to question old beliefs and support equal rights will create long-lasting change in families and workplaces. Speeding up gender equality in Nepal needs a clear plan that focuses on better laws, education, job opportunities, and including men in the conversation. These steps will not only empower women but also help the country grow and become fairer for everyone.
Sanisha Bhattarai
Model
Gender equality is essential for a just progressive society, yet achieving it requires deliberate action. There are several key ways to accelerate progress in this area.
Education and awareness play a crucial role. Ensuring equal access to quality education for all genders helps break stereotypes and empowers individuals to challenge discrimination. Schools should integrate gender-sensitive curricula that promote inclusivity from an early age.
Economic empowerment is vital. Women and marginalized genders often face barriers in employment and entrepreneurship. Equal pay, access to financial resources, and leadership opportunities can bridge this gap. Governments and organizations should implement policies that encourage women’s participation in the workforce and support women-led businesses.
Representation and leadership should be prioritized. More women and underrepresented genders in politics, corporate leadership, and decision-making positions can drive meaningful change. Representation fosters policies and practices that reflect diverse perspectives.
Changing societal attitudes is crucial. Engaging men and boys in gender equality conversations, challenging traditional gender roles, and promoting media representation of strong, independent individuals can shift mindsets. By taking these steps, we can create a world where everyone, regardless of gender, has equal opportunities to thrive. Gender equality is not just a women’s issue, it is a human rights issue that benefits society as a whole.
Bhabana Sharma
Student Leader
Gender equality is not only a fundamental human right but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable society. It ensures equal opportunities, equal access to resources, and rights for all.
However, even in the 21st century, our society is still deeply entrenched in patriarchal structures, where decisions from family to politics are centered around men. There is a belief that power and access should remain with men, and men continue to intervene in the personal and public lives of women. We must now dismantle such social mindsets and institutional structures filled with gender inequality. To do so, we must challenge society’s hypocritical attitudes through education, skills, and technology, and advocate for gender equality through open and digital discussions, from the streets to the parliament. When there is effective implementation of legal and policy reforms and the promotion of economic empowerment, equality will make progress. Therefore, the legal system must be strengthened, and equal economic opportunities must be provided to everyone.
Gender inequality is a social crime that makes society and the country stagnant. These crimes hinder social progress and prevent society from moving forward. Therefore, if we want to lead society in the right direction, we all must take responsibility for it. The fight for equality is not just the fight of one group; it is a shared problem of society. Only when we uproot the roots of patriarchy and stand firmly against those committing the crime of gender inequality, will the end of this heinous practice be possible.
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