Interaction Program on the Role of Stakeholders in Promoting Disability-Friendly Justice for Girls and Women with Disabilities

Conducted on 10^th November 2025

Access Planet Organization, in coordination with the National Women Commission (NWC) and with funding support from Women’s Fund Asia/Leading from the South (WFA/LFS), organized an interaction program on the 'Role of Stakeholders in Promoting Disability-Friendly Justice for Girls and Women with Disabilities.' The program brought together government representatives, the Supreme Court, and civil society organizations to discuss barriers, share experiences, and identify practical steps to strengthen inclusive justice systems.

Objectives:

• To discuss barriers faced by girls and women with disabilities in accessing justice
• To disseminate key findings of the research “The Voices from the Margins: Situation of Access to Justice for Women with Disabilities in Nepal" and to obtain official acknowledgment and authentication from the government.
• To enhance understanding among government and civil Society Organization's (CSO) about inclusive justice systems.
• To identify commitments and practical steps for promoting disability and gender-friendly justice in Nepal.

During the event, the research book “The Voices from the Margins: Situation of Access to Justice for Women with Disabilities in Nepal” was officially launched by the president of NEC and Access Planet. Research consultant Ms. Niti Aryal shared key findings highlighting gaps in accessibility, lack of trained human resources, and the need for stronger policy implementation.

An open discussion session allowed stakeholders to raise issues such as procedural accommodation gaps, inaccessible infrastructure, discrimination, challenges in OCMC practices, and the limited participation of women with disabilities in justice institutions. Participants emphasized the need for improved coordination, awareness, and accessibility in both physical and digital spaces.

In the closing remarks, NWC President Hon. Kamala Parajuli reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to promoting inclusive justice, highlighting initiatives such as ramp construction, the 1145 helpline, and plans for disability-friendly complaint mechanisms.

Outputs

• The official inauguration and dissemination and received government acknowledgment and validation of the research book “The Voices from the Margins: Situation of Access to Justice for Women with Disabilities in Nepal.”
• Enhanced awareness among government, CSOs, and other stakeholders about barriers faced by women and girls with disabilities in accessing justice.
• Stakeholder dialogue fostering collaboration between government agencies and civil society organizations.
• Identification of practical steps to improve access to justice.
• Strengthened institutional linkages between Access Planet Organization, government bodies, and CSOs for sustained action toward inclusive justice.