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| One of the women's federations at work |
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Women from local Nepal communities are being encouraged to speak out against abuse and violence by the Women’s Federations. Supported by Plan in partnership with WOREC (Women's Rehabilitation Centre), women themselves investigate cases such as trafficking, torture and violence.
The Women’s Federation fought justice for 15-year-old Rina (name changed), who was raped by a local boy. The family wanted to keep it a secret but the Federation encouraged them to take the case to court, where the boy was sentenced to seven years. He was also made to pay cash compensation and give half his property to the victimised girl.
Another incident involved Sabina, who separated from her husband 13 years ago when he brought home another woman as his wife. Despite trying to live independently she suffered beatings and foul language from him and his mother.
As he continued to mistreat her, she approached the Federation. A representative of the Federation met with the man and his mother, and discussed the matter thoroughly, requesting her independence.
Due to the intervention they now leave her peace and she is able to live her life freely.
Each Women’s Federation comprises of nine community members including a Community Health Volunteer and elected representatives, and works at a local level to maintain gender balance in the community. There are now 42 Federations in the districts of Sunsari and Morang, with a total of 756 women members from various communities.
