Dhangadhi hosts trainer program to promote male participation in ending gender-based violence

Dhangadhi: A five-day trainer training program focused on increasing male participation for gender equality has commenced in Dhangadhi, Kailali. The training, which began on Sunday, aims to engage men in efforts to reduce gender-based violence in the community.

Speaking at the program, Chairperson Ghimire emphasized that awareness among women alone is not sufficient to combat gender-based violence. She urged participating men to apply their training in their communities and highlighted the importance of changing societal perceptions and male mindsets.

“Men are also involved in violence along with women,” Ghimire stated. “There has always been a perception in society that violence only affects women, but reducing it requires the participation and attitude shift of men as well.”

Inaugurating the training, Kailali District Coordination Committee Chief Tika Bhul Chaudhary echoed the call for male involvement, noting that ending gender-based violence is a shared responsibility. “Not only women but also men are involved in violence,” she said, underlining the need for inclusive action.

Coordination Chief Bhol highlighted the persistent challenges of patriarchal norms, stating that discrimination continues to impact women's physical and mental well-being. “Women are becoming victims of illness and even suicide due to the societal pressure of bearing sons,” Bhol said, stressing the need for deeper social change.

The training is organized by the Dalit Women's Rights Forum Nepal (DWRF) with financial support from DCI and includes the participation of 30 men from Kailari Rural Municipality and Bhajani Municipality.