An Interview With the Chief Guest
1. What inspired you to start ‘Saathi’?
Back in 1990, when I used to be a journalist, I had to prepare a documentary on the topic of human development. I decided to take on the voices of the rural communities of Nepal, and so I visited villages around the country. Through this process, I realized that only men spoke up and were represented in the media while the women chose to stay silent. To delve further into this stillness of voice, I extended my stay.
The women of the village left their houses every morning to fetch water. This was the only time that I heard them converse and share stories with each other. I realized that there was an abundance of sorrowful experiences that were kept hidden from the world outside, domestic violence being the main issue that they faced. Abuse at home was usually propagated by alcoholic husbands reasons ranging from insufficient dowry to the late preparation of meals.
As a journalist, I felt the need to bring out these suppressed voices and make them heard by policy makers. With eight others who shared concern about this matter just as sensitively as I did, I helped commence ‘Saathi’ in 1992, to break the silence and help women enjoy free rights in an accepting and just society.
2. What is the biggest achievement you’ve had in your field of work?
Saathi is an agency that has helped a significant number of women find strength in their voices. Through collective work and persistent advocacy, local voices have been represented at a national level. As a result, participating in CEDAW has allowed me to step on to a global platform and help empower women in countries of Asia as well as Africa.
3. Why is it important to continue empowering women in Nepal?
Women have been discriminated by the norms set by the patriarchal society for many years in Nepal. Thus, it is important to take specific measures to empower them, whether it be for education, nutrition, or the voicing of their opinions. It is necessary that they have access to equally participate and contribute to the development of the society.
4. What role do you think Model UNs play in empowering women/young girls?
Global policies that are formulated in the UN play a major role in influencing national policies.
As a result, Model UNs guide youths of today to understand the process of righteous policy making and allow them to understand worldly issues at a wider platform. When issues related to gender inequality are put forth during the conference, the realities of the world are integrated and solutions are discussed. Thus, Model UNs are important in the sense that they allow the young generation to not only understand but also apply their experiences and ideas in resolving real world issues.
5. Do you think taking MUN to rural platforms will be beneficial ?
Yes, MUN in rural schools will provide young girls with the voice they usually aren’t given. However, it is important that the simulation is not abruptly introduced to them. The activity should be integrated in their curriculum so that they are able to comprehend what is happening. They should be educated about the mechanisms and purpose of the United Nations before they take participation in its simulated version.
6. What topics regarding women empowerment should be discussed in the RBS MUN?
The main focus should be on gender inequality and lack of women’s access to education, resources, and a voice. MUNs should aim to generate peace and equality in the world.
7. Any parting words?
I feel confident that the young generation, which seems so interested in dealing with the issues of the world, will accomplish better things for global wellbeing.
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