Breaking down the barriers in accessing justice for women with disabilities
Dear John
No woman should feel that violence and discrimination are inevitable.
But that’s something many womenwith disabilities around the world may come to believe. Globally, women and girls with disabilities are 2-3 times more likely to experience violence (1) Life as a woman with disabilities in Nepal
Recent research carried out by Womankind partner, Nepal Disabled Women’s Association (NDWA), shows that women with disabilities in Nepal are regularly humiliated, insulted andstigmatised. They are less likely to have access to education, employment, and healthcare. In short, they are pushed into the margins of society.
Breaking the Barriers of Silence
Over the last year Womankind supported NDWA to ensure the unique and specific needs of women with disabilities are being considered and understood within the justice system in Nepal.
Their project: “Access to Justice: Breaking the Barriers of Silence” aims to support women with disabilities in accessing their rights and seeking justice, particularly those who have experienced (or are at heightened risk of) violence.
Activities included;
Training for women with disabilities across the country ontheir rights around reporting violence
Awareness training for police officers and members of the justice committee on the barriers for women with disabilities in reporting violence and accessing justice
Sensitive case management training for NDWA staff.
The project also focuses on ensuring women with disabilities get fair treatment in legal matters, offering helplines in accessible formats, and providing resources to help boost their independent income which is a lifeline for any woman experiencing violence.
This project is scheduled to end this month!
But we are determined to continue working with NDWA. They want to reach women with disabilities in every district in Nepal, with information about their rights and training to increase their skills and boost their independent income. Let's support them to get there!
Double your donation this International Women's Day
A group of generous donors have pledged to match every donation made to our International Women’s Day Appeal pound for pound until the end of March. That means your gift will go twice as far.
Ahead of International Women’s Day tomorrow, could you make a donation in support of our continued work with NDWA?
We supported over 36 grassroots women’s rights organisations like NDWA last year, all thanks to your support. We are so grateful that you are part of our community committed to achieving equality for women and girls.
In solidarity,
Hannah Little
Supporter Care Team Womankind Worldwide
Header image: Nepal Disabled Women's Association (NDWA) staff members Meena Paudel (left) and Pamphaj Purkoti (right) with NDWA participant Lalita (centre) in the Kavre district of Kathmandu Valley, Nepal. (Credit: Sajana Shresta)
(1) Ortoleva S. and Lewis H., Forgotten Sisters - A Report on Violence against Women with Disabilities: An Overview of Its Nature, Scope, Causes and Consequence (2012).
