NGO FONIN Reports

Interaction on new constitution and Kiratee’s issue

2010-04-10T20:55:00.000-07:00

March 8, 2010
NGO Federation of Nepalese Indigenous Nationalities (NGO-FONIN) and Federation of Indigenous Kirat Association (FIKA) jointly organized a one-day interaction on “New Constitution and Kiratee’s Issue” on 8th March 2010. The purpose of the interaction was to discuss on state restructure and Kiratees’ issues, which is whether properly being addressed by the new constitution or not and to build consensus about the issues among Kiratee groups, so that collective opinion/suggestions could be made to the concerned. In the program, four separate concept papers on state restructuring, Kiratee’s issues including existing situation update were presented and discussed. The interaction program was concluded with the consensus of continuing similar interactions will all concerns and feed to Constitution Assembly on time. A total of 75 participants from various Kiratee groups, CA members took part in the interaction.

Workshop on Bio-diversity

2010-04-10T20:54:00.000-07:00

February 14, 2010
With an objective to impart knowledge and skills with NGO Federation of Nepalese Indigenous Nationalities (NGO-FONIN) member organisations those who are implementing bio-diversity program activities, a two-day workshop was organised on 13 and 14 February 2010. A total of 26 representatives from NGO-FONIN and member organisations (MOs) were present in the workshop. The workshop was concluded with drawing an action plans which to implement in the districts by MOs.

Program review workshop

2010-04-07T06:18:00.000-07:00

Strategic Partnership program with the support of Danida Human Rights and Good Governance Advisory Unit (DanidaHUGOU) and Action Aid International, Nepal. The program has been started NGO Federation of Nepalese Indigenous Nationalities (NGO-FONIN) is implementing from 17 Ashad 2066 (1 July 2009). With the purpose to review of the program for six month period, a three-day review workshop was held from 18 to 20 January 2010. Particularly, the review was focussed on district based program/activities where NGO-FONIN is implementing Indigenous Peoples Empowerment and Inclusion program activities in 20 districts through member organisations (MOs) under the strategic partnership program.

The respective MOs from respective districts shared the activities, achievements carried out, and learning made during the six month period. On the basis of the review and reflection further action plan has been developed. A total of 29 participants/representatives took part in the review program.

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2010-04-01T05:08:00.001-07:00

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Interaction program with woman. Organizations

2009-10-15T10:22:00.000-07:00

NGO- FONIN organized interaction program for one day with different woman organizations (Baisakha 10, 2065) that was how to empowerment and involve of woman in the future program? What are their organizational mission, vision, and goal? What they except from NGO-FONIN? What is their suggestion to NGO-FONIN? There was 25 participations from different organization like Help Nepal, Himalayan sarbanggin development, pabitra paldor samaj, Lohorung woman samuha, Indigenous sarokar Kendra, Chamling language, culture development, Nepal kirat kulung mahila samaj, Spin, Nepal indigenous woman federation, Thulung mahila samaj, Bahing kirat ingsimi mulukhim. This program was first time organized by NGO-FONIN with a view to empowerment and encourage for woman.

वार्षिक कार्यक्रम योजना र रणनीतिक योजना सम्वन्धि दुई दिने अभिमुखीकरण तालिम कार्यक्रम सम्पन्न

2009-10-15T09:10:00.000-07:00

आदिवासी तथा जनजाति गैरसरकारी संस्था महासंघ आदिवासी जनजातिहरुले स्थापना गरेको गैरसरकारी संस्था तथा आदिवासी जनजाति जातिय संस्थाहरुको छाता संगठन हो । हाल यसमा झण्डै ८० भन्दा बढी जातिय तथा गैर सरकारी संस्था आवद्ध भई महासंघको सदस्य संस्था भएका छन् । धेरै वर्ष देखि राज्यको एक जाति एक भाषा, एक धर्म, एक संस्कृति हिन्दु राज्यको प्रभावका कारण आदिवासी तथा जाजातिहरु अधिकार बिहीन र पछाडी पारिएको अवस्थामा छन् । पछिल्लो समय, विशेष गरी २०४६ को राजनीतिक परिवर्तन पछिको खुलापनका कारण उनीहरु आफ्नो अधिकार प्रप्तीका लागि विभिन्न कोणबाट आवाज उठाई रहेका छन् । सामाजिक आन्दोलनबाट उठान भएको आदिवासी जनजाति आन्दोलन बिस्तारै राजनीतिक आन्दोलन तर्फ केन्द्रीत हुन थालेको छ । हुनत विगतमा पनि जातीय मुक्तिका लागि राजनीतिक विदे्राहहरु नभएका होईनन् । तर तत्कालीन राज्यको दमनकारी नीति र आदिवासी जनजातिमा आफ्नो अधिकार प्रति कम चेतना भएका कारण विद्रोहका स्वरहरु दबाईका थिए । पछिल्लो समयमा आएर राजनीतिक रुपमा आदिवासी जनजाति सचेत जागरुक बनेको अवस्था छ । त्यसैको परिणाम स्वरुप अधिकाँश राजनीतिक दलको नीति तथा घोषणमा मात्र भएपनि आदिवासी जनजातिका सवाल समावेश भएका छन् भने ती दलहरुमा आदिवासी जनजाति विभागहरु समेत गठन भएको अवस्था छ । अधिकारवाट वञ्चित आदिवासी जनजातिहरुलाई क्षमता अभिवृद्धि गरी सशक्तिकरण गर्दै उनीहरुको हक अधिकार स्थापना, जगेर्ना र प्रर्वद्धन तथा राज्यको मुल प्रवाहमा समाबेश गरी समन्नुत तथा न्यायीक समाजको स्थापना गर्न योगदान पु¥याउन सहयोग गर्ने उद्देश्यले यस महासंघको स्थापना भएको हो । आदिवासी जनजातिहरुको हक, अधिकार स्थापनाको सवालमा महासंघले विभिन्न प्रयासहरु गर्दै आएको छ । हाल यसले डानिडा हुगु (DanidaHUGOU) को सहयोगमा जनजाति सशक्तिकरण तथा समावेशी परियोजना संचालन गरी भर्खर मात्र सम्पन्न गरेको छ । साथै DanidaHUGOU सँग सन् २००९ देखि पाँच वर्षका लागि रणनीतिक साझेदारीका लागि सम्झौता समेत भैसकेको छ । DanidaHUGOU को सहयोगमा सन् २००५ बाट १० वटा सदस्य संस्था मार्फत १० जिल्लामा कार्यक्रम सञ्चालन गर्दै आएकोमा रणनीतिक साझेदारी पछि २० वटा सदस्य संस्थाहरु मार्फत NGOFONIN ले २० जिल्लामा कार्यक्रम गर्ने छ । आदिवासी जनजातिहरुको सशक्तिकरण प्रकृयावाट उनीहरुको सामाजिक, आर्थिक, राजनैतिक विकास प्रकृयामा सहभागीता वृद्धि गराउनु साथै राज्यको मुल प्रवाहमा र उनीहरुलाई स्थानीय साधन स्रोतमा पहुँच पु¥याउनु यस कार्यक्रमको प्रमुख उद्देश्य रहेको छ । आदिवासी जनजातिहरुको सशक्तिकरण प्रकृया अन्र्तगत यसले विभिन्न तालिम, गोष्ठी, अध्ययन भ्रमण, अनुसन्धान जस्ता कृयाकलापहरु संचालन गरिरहेको छ । यसै अनुरुप महासंघले यस आर्थिक वर्षमा कार्यसञ्चालन गर्ने २० वटा संस्थाहरुको कार्य योजना, आर्थिक बाँडफटको बारेमा, र कार्यक्रमको रुपरेखाको बारेमा अभिमुखीकरण गरी स्पष्ट पार्ने काम भएको थियो भने रणनीतिक साझेदारी पछिको पहिलो पर्षको यस आर्थिक वर्ष १७ असार २०६६ देखि शुरु भई ३२ असार २०६७ सम्मको रहेको छ । उक्त कार्यक्रममा विभिन्न कार्यसञ्चालन गर्ने २० सदस्य संस्थाहरु, कार्यसमितिका पदाधिकारीहरु र कर्मचारीहरु गरी ५५ जनाको सहभागीता रहेको थियो ।
संस्थागत विकास तालिम सम्पन्न २००९
नेपालका आदिवासी जनजातिहरु दुई सय ४० वर्ष सम्मको राज्यको एक जाति एक भाषा, एक धर्म, एक संस्कृतिको संरक्षण नीतिका कारण अधिकार बिहीन र पछाडी पारिएको अवस्थामा छन् । पछिल्लो समय, विशेष गरी २०४६ को राजनीतिक परिवर्तन पछिको खुलापनका कारण उनीहरु आफ्नो अधिकारका प्रप्तीका लागि विभिन्न कोणबाट आवाज उठाई रहेका छन् । सामाजिक आन्दोलनबाट उठान भएको आदिवासी जनजाति आन्दोलन बिस्तारै राजनीतिक आन्दोलन तर्फ केन्द्रीत हुन थालेको छ । हुनत विगतमा पनि जातीय मुक्तिका लागि राजनीतिक विद्रहहरु नभएका होईनन् । तर तत्कालीन राज्यको दमनकारी नीति र आदिवासी जनजातिमा आफ्नो अधिकार प्रति कम चेतना भएका कारण विद्रोहका स्वरहरु दबाईका थिए । पछिल्लो समयमा आएर राजनीतिरुपमा आदिवासी जनजाति सचेत जागरुक बनेको अवस्था छ । त्यसैको परिणाम स्वरुप अधिकाँश राजनीतिक दलको नीति तथा घोषणमा मात्र भएपनि आदिवासी जनजातिका सवाल समावेश भएका छन् भने ती दलहरुमा आदिवासी जनजाति विभागहरु समेत गठन भएको अवस्था छ । तर पनि उनीहरुमा आएको यो चेतना र जागरुकताको धरातल भने सामाजिक संघ संगठनहरुनै हुन । सामाजिक संघखसंस्थाले सञ्चालन गरेका विभिन्न प्रकारका चेतनामुलक तथा वकालतीय कार्यक्रमहरुका कारण नै स्थनीय स्तरका आदिवासी जनजातिहरुमा आफ्नो आकिारकाबारेमा सचेत र जागरुक हुन थालेको भन्नेमा कुनै दुईमत छैन । यस्ता विभिन्न आदिवासी जनजातिसँग सम्बन्धित सामाजिक संघ संगठनहरु उनीहरुको सशक्तीकरण र सचेतनाका लागि देशव्यापीरुपमा काम गरिरहेका छन् । जुन संस्थाहरु आफ्नो समुदायको जागरुकताका लागि आफ्नै पहल तथा विभिन्न दातृ निकायहरुको सहयोगमा उनीहरुको हक अधिकारकाबारेमा काम गरिरहेका छन् ।
कुल जनसंख्याको ३७.२ प्रतिशत रहेका आदिवासी जनजाति समुदायको राज्यका कुनै पनि निकायमा जनसंख्याको आधारमा प्रतिनिधित्व र पहुँच पुग्न सकेको छैन । उनीहरुको शिक्षा, स्वास्थ्य, रोजगारी जस्ता आधारभूत आवश्यकताको पूर्ति हुन नसकिरहेको अवस्था छ । राज्यको कानूननै आदिवासी जनजातिका लागि पूर्वाग्रही रहेका कारण उनीहरुले आफ्नो परम्परा तथा अधिकारहरुको प्रयोग र उपभोग गर्न पाएका छैनन् । यसै सिलसिलामा DanidaHUGOU सँगको रणनीतिक साझेदारीको कार्यक्रमको Capacity Development कार्यक्रम अन्तर्गत Organization Developm अन्तर्गतनै NGOFONIN ले आदिवासी जनजाति संघ संस्थाहरुको क्षमता विकास गरी संस्थागत दीगो विकास गर्ने उद्येश्यले सदस्य यंस्थाहरुका प्रतिनिधिहरुलाई अगस्ट २७ देखी २९ सम्म संस्थागत विकास तालिम [Organisational Development Training (OD Training]को आयोजना गरेको थियो ।
प्रशिक्षक प्रशिक्षण तालिम (TOT Training) सम्पन्न
आदिवासी तथा जनजाति गैरसरकारी संस्था महासंघ नेपाल (NGO-FONIN) ले विभिन्न आदिवासी तथा जनजाति संघ संस्थाहरुको प्रतिनीधिहरुलाई प्रशिक्षक प्रशिक्षण तालिम यहि मिति २०६६ असोज २४ देखि ३० गतेसम्म एक हप्ता सम्मको तालिम सम्पन्न गरेको छ । उक्त तालिमको उदेश्य विभिन्न संघ संस्थाबाट दक्ष प्रशिक्षक उत्पादन गर्ने रहेको थियो । जावलाखेल स्थित महिला विकास प्रशिक्षण केन्द्रमा सञ्चालित उक्त कार्यक्रममा १७ जना सहभागीताहरु रहेको थियो । उक्त कार्यक्रमलाई डम्मर लोहोरुङ र उत्तम उप्रेती ले सहजीकरण गर्नुभएको थियो ।

Major Activities of October 2009
8,9 October District program support w/s at chitwan
10,16- TOT Training
13,14, October W/S on Climate change
17 October Meeting at ILO
21 October - meeting with IPs NGOs
21, 24- Staff Selection
24, 30 TOT training 26, 27 October -W/S on financial management for strategic partnership to be organized by Danida HUGOU

प्रस्थाव तथा प्रतिवेदन लेखन तालिम सम्पन्न ।

2009-10-15T09:08:00.000-07:00

आदिवासी तथा जनजाति गैरसरकारी संस्था महासंघ नेपाल अन्तर्गत जनजाति सशक्तिकरण तथा समावेसीकरण परियोजना जेपले ले प्रस्ताव लेखन तथा प्रतिवेदन लेखन तालिम आयोजना गरेको थियो । यहि मिति २०६५ साल फाल्गुन ८ गते देखि १४ सम्म होटल प्याराडाइजमा सम्पन्न उक्त तालिममा जनजाति सशक्तिकरण तथा समावेशीकरण परियोजना संस्चालन गरिरहेका १० वटा सदस्य संस्थाहरुका २।२ जना महिला र पुरुष प्रतिनीधिहरुको सहभागीता रहेको थियो । उक्त तालिमलाई डम्मर लोहोरुङ र उत्तम नेपालले सहजीकरण गरेको थियो । ४ दिनको प्रस्ताव र ३ दिनको प्रतिवेदन गरि जम्मा ७ दिन सम्म चलेको उक्त तालिममा सवै सहभागीहरुले उत्सुक्ताका साथ सहभागीता जनाएका थिए । तालिमबाट प्रस्ताव लेखन र प्रतिवेदन लेखन सम्वन्धि धेरै कुरा सिकेको र आगामी दिनमा यो तालिमको सहायताले आफ्नो संस्थाको लागी सहयोग पुग्ने सहभागीहरुको भनाई थियो । कार्यक्रमको अन्तमा सवै सहभागीहरुलाई प्रमाणपत्र वितरण गरि समापन गरिएको थियो ।
सोही तालिम १० वटा जिल्ला संञ्जालका २।२ जना प्रतिनीधिहरुलाई पनि यहि मिति २०६५ साल फल्गुन १५ देखि २१ सम्म जावलाखेल स्थित स्टाप कलेजमा सञ्चालन गरिएको थियो । एउटै उदेश्य रहेको उक्त तालिममा विभिन्न जिल्लाबाट प्रतिनीधिहरुको उपस्थिति रहेको थियो । सो तालिमलाई डम्मर लोहोरुङ, होम प्रसाद याम्फु, धनबहादुर तामाङले संयुक्त रुपमा सहजीकरण गरेको थियो । सहभागीहरुले आगामी दिनमा यो तालिमलाई उपयोग गर्दै आफ्नो आफ्नो जिल्लामा रहेका संस्थाहरुमा सहयोग पुग्ने बताएका थिए । कार्यक्रमको अन्तिम दिन सवै सहभागीहरुलाई प्रमाण पत्र वितरण गरि समापन गरिएको थियो ।

सुशासन नीति आत्मासाथ साथै पुनरावलोकन सम्बन्धि २ दिने कार्यशाला गोष्ठी

2009-10-15T09:07:00.000-07:00

आदिवासी तथा जनजाति गैरसरकारी संस्था महासंघ नेपाल ९एनजिओ फोनिन०को सुशासन नीति लाई आत्मासाथ गर्ने साथै जनजाति सशत्तिःकरण तथा समावेशी परियोजना अन्तर्गत आफ्ना १० वटा सदस्य संस्थाहरुलाई उनीहरुको संस्थागत विकास र क्षमता अभिवृद्धि गर्ने उदेश्यले विभिन्न तालिमहरुको आयोजना गरि उक्त तालिममा सहभागी गराई जिल्लाहरुमा आदिवासी जनजातिहरुको सवालमा कार्यक्रमहरु संचालनसहज बनाउन र सुशासन नीति लाई आत्मासाथ गर्न टेवा पु¥याउने उदेश्यले यहि मिति २०६५ साल माघ १८ र १९ गते जमल स्थित होटल प्याराडाईजमा दुई दिने कार्यशाला गोष्टीको आयोजना गरेको थियो जम्मा ३२ जनाको सहभागीता रहेको उक्त कार्यशाला गोष्टीमा आदिवासी तथा जनजाति गैर सरकारी संस्थाभित्र रहेका सुशासन नीतिहरुलाई आत्मासाथ गर्ने साथै सुशासन प्रकृयालई संस्थागत गर्ने, सुशासन नीतिमाथी छलफल गर्ने र सुशासन नीतिमाथी भएका कमीकमजोरीलाई केलाउने उदेश्य रहेको थियो ।

Nepalese Indigenous Nationalities

2009-08-01T06:27:00.000-07:00

Introduction
The Strategic Plan (SP) of NGO-Federation of Nepalese Indigenous Nationalities (NGO-FONIN) has been prepared with the aim to guide the federation towards achieving its mission. This plan has three main parts as: A) Strategic Framework, B) Operational plan, and C) Institutional Development Plan.
A. Strategic Framework: includes situational analysis, national and international legal provisions, challenges, rational, history behind starting the NGO-Federation of Nepalese Indigenous Nationalities (NGO-FONIN), what the organization has done to date, and where the strategic direction lies in moving forward
B. Operational Plan: where key outputs have been identified as areas needing the most work and attention, and detail on how these activities are to be addressed. Two addendums follow the main parts of this plan: The Logical Framework used to develop this plan and The Total 5-year Budget Plan that is a detailed breakdown of financial needs for each output listed in the Operational Plan.
C. Institutional Development Plan: includes information on how NGO-FONIN will develop policies and procedures, as well as how we plan to build capacity into the organization.
D. Annual Work Plan and Budget 2066/67 (2009/10)
Discussions are ongoing with National Indigenous Women’s Federation (NIWF) to explore the possibility of implementing, through this organisation, activities under some of the Outputs related to gender and indigenous women planned in this StOP.

A. The Strategic Framework

Based on the participatory analysis of the situation, what is seen to be prevailing for some time to come is a situation of doubts, uncertainties, and political and economic instability for all INs. The people's aspirations are been high after the recent peace processes in the country, but problems related with INs do not seem to have been resolved as expected.

A.1 Problem/Context Analysis

Socio-economic status
The Nepal Living Standard Survey has shown that absolute poverty has decreased from 42 to 31 percent in the last 10 years. However, during the same period, the difference between the rich and the poor has widened – for example, the Gini Coefficient has increased from 0.34 to 0.41. A high incidence of poverty is found among Dalits (46%), hill ethnic groups (44%) and Muslims (41%). The per capita income in Rupees is 80,400 for Brahmin & Chhetris and 13,300 for INs. A recent study carried out on 35 groups of Indigenous Women shows that only 20% of 35 Indigenous groups have food supplies adequate for 3 months, 40% have 6-12 months and only 8.5% have food for 12 months.

Political participation and the CA process
Looking back at the recent past political scenario and comparing that with the present political situation, political participation used to be very low, when INs where not identified. The present constituent assembly has 213 assembly members from different INs groups (34%); however this unprecedented presence of INs in the constituent assembly is not a guarantee that the INs issues will get attention in the constitution making process due to their affiliation to political parties. The long political domination of one group of caste has given birth to some regional political forces that are very capable of playing a forceful role in the regional political scenario in the days to come. So, even in the present open situation, INs do not seem to be well organized and have no political forum to speak of. They will unable to influence political decisions in their favour in the current political climate.

Political parties (as well as the current government) do not seem to be honouring CPR or ESCR nor INs rights guaranteed by national and international laws. The prevailing attitudes held by the political parties and the government is to ignore INs rights, and this is exemplified by the recent failure of the CA in not having formed a separate committee on INs during the constitution making process, despite the countrywide INs demand.

Indigenous women
The population of women in Nepal represents 50.03% of the total population. But due to discriminatory state policies and societal practices, they have been marginalized, exploited and excluded in all spheres of development. The literacy rate for women is 34.6% - almost half of their male counterparts that stand at 62.2%. Women own less land, only 10.84% own land whereas 89.16% of men own land.

The literacy rate for indigenous women is seen to be 25% on average, ranging from 0-80% among the 35 INs groups. Attainment of a secondary level of education is 14%, while only 4% at the Bachelors level and 1% at the Masters level. So 96% of indigenous women have a lower level of education, making it even more difficult to enter into decision-making at the national level, which explains why female representation in Parliament was 5.86% after the election of 2054 B.S. and in the present constituent assembly that number is approximately 10%.

Vulnerable and highly marginalized groups
There are 12 highly marginalized groups[1] and 10 endangered groups[2] categorized by NEFIN. All groups are very much excluded and discriminated against in all spheres of development activities. Some are endangered in the sense that they are losing their identity due to an assimilation process, combined with ignorance and poverty. They are deprived of economic, social, and cultural rights - not only by state policies and practices - but also by the so-called “modern development process”. However, the above categorization is based on the enlisted 59 groups only - without regard to other groups that are not enlisted. The situation of some of the un-enlisted groups is even more serious.

For example, Jerong is one highly endangered ethnic group that meets all criteria for such categorization if it were among the other 59 groups. The lack of clear-cut policies in government regarding INs issues coupled with power politics within the dominant INs groups have further aggravated the process of marginalization and exclusion of the more vulnerable INs groups. This process has conditioned them to be in such a deplorable situation that there does not seem to be an immediate solution until these groups become more aware of the overall situation.

Legal challenges
The INs population of Nepal is 37.2% of the total population, but they are not recognized as a separate group that constitutionally guarantees them their identity. INs have been separated from their customary laws, traditional knowledge, skills, ancestral land and resources, which is their base for development. Government acts such as the Local Self-Government Act, Community Forestry Act, National Park Act, Land Reform (Kipat Abolishment) Act, etc., are detrimental to the INs value system and development capacity.

National and international laws
Even after the country has been declared a secular state, the pervasiveness of the so-called high caste cultural practices has remained as predominant in the cultural practices of INs. The alien (non-INs) cultural practices and attitudes have become institutionalized to the extent that laws concerning INs cultural practices tend to be ignored. International instruments guaranteeing INs rights: ILO Con. 169, UNDRIP, CPR, ESCR, CRC, CEDAW, UNSCR 1325, and a number of other treaties are often not implemented by the State in true spirit of these instruments. On the other hand, most of the INs are not aware of National and International legal provisions with regard to their rights, which mean they cannot claim their rights within the State and International Community.

In light of the above, national and international laws concerning INs need to be enforced and national legal provisions contradicting the international instruments need to be amended accordingly.

The Interim Constitution and the existing gaps in INs rights
The Interim Constitution, which is thought to be an outcome of the 10-year Janayuddha (Peoples War), during which more than 60% of the total casualties were INs. However, the same Interim Constitution has a provision under Article 142 (4), stating that:

"The election commission shall not register any political party if any Nepali citizen is discriminated against in becoming member of the political party on the basis of religion, caste, tribe, language or gender or if the name, objective symbols or flags of such political party is of a character that may disturb the country's religious or communal unity or is divisive in character...."

It was this same provision of the Constitution of 1990 that had prevented the Mongol National Organization Party from being registered with the Election Commission. This Article stands directly against the CPR and ILO Convention 169.

National institutions and INs issues
There are many national-level organizations that deal directly with INs issues:
· National Foundation for the Development of Indigenous Nationalities (NFDIN)
· Nepal Federation of Indigenous Nationalities (NEFIN)
· National Indigenous Women Federation (NIWF)
· National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)
· National Network of Indigenous Women (NNIW)
· NGO Federation of Nepalese Indigenous Nationalities (NGO-FONIN)

NFDIN is a state institution founded in 2002, with the responsibility of economic, social and cultural development of the INs, as an effort of the government to bring the INs into the national development mainstream. NEFIN and NIWF, both are federations of INs - specific organizations of the enlisted 59 groups, and by legal status, are both NGOs. NEFIN, as a federation, is responsible for the preservation and promotion of the distinct social, political, cultural and linguistic identity of peoples, and also for enhancing the inclusion of INs in the national development process.

As a separate organization, NIWF looks after the specific issues of indigenous women to ensure their rights for equal participation in the national development process. Of these organizations, NFDIN, being a state institution, is bound to carry out policies related with INs in the government perspective, confined to working for the 59 enlisted groups, and the other two (NEFIN and NIWF) are also confined to working for the 59 enlisted groups. All three groups have the same practice to exclude un-enlisted INs groups. NGO-FONIN, on the other hand, is open to all groups, regardless of their identity or recognition by the government.

This leaves a large number of INs groups in want of recognition. The act of non-recognition of un-enlisted INs groups in itself has become an additional discrimination meted by the State. This however represents only a part, and not the whole of INs who are under multi-folded discriminations within the country.

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) is an autonomous, constitutional body. Civil society organisations such as INHURED, INSEC, CWIN, and NNIW, NIWF, NEFIN, LAHURNIP, among others, are working for the promotion and protection of Human Rights. CWIN is concerned with child rights whereas NNIW and NIWF are concerned with indigenous women's issues. NEFIN is concern with INs issues in general. INs representation is nominal in NHRC.

NGO-FONIN intends to take on the issues facing INs that others ignore, but is facing a legacy of problems:

· Lack of awareness amongst INs in regards to their rights.
· Lack of coordination between groups.
· Disrespect of national and international laws by the state.
· Inappropriate and inadequate policies that deal with INs issues.
· Lack of participation of INs at decision-making levels.
· The domination of one elite group in political, economic and state affairs.
· Lack of authentic data on INs and their specific issues.

In addition to the above list, the pervasiveness of different political ideologies among INs is such that it has divided INs into factions. One faction regards society as having only one identity or "class" that is based on their socio-economic conditions and a society does not have diverse identities based on caste, race, language, and culture at all. This catchy ideology is rapidly gaining popularity among INs and other excluded or marginalised groups who are not aware of their real identity, due in part to the assimilation process over the past decades. This stance stands in opposition to NGO-FONIN objectives and to INs right to self-determination.

Complicating matters even more, many development agencies are not aware of this rift in society and wonder why the scanty resources poured into the development of INs have not brought about a change. Some agencies cannot even work with INs - as these groups are not defined and thus do not meet agency standards. This misunderstanding between ideologues accounts for many INs being pushed aside by donors.

However, NGO-FONIN has withstood these crucial struggles, and despite the unfavourable situation NGO-FONIN has equipped itself with skills, resources, and infrastructure using grass-roots techniques, and is now prepared for future development activities. NGO-FONIN intends to create a separate "stream" of development activities that will prevent INs identity from being assimilated. It intends to work in close collaboration and coordination with all concerned, and is already stepping-up policy advocacy a notch.

Since policy lapses and social/political practices seem to be the main hurdles in promoting human rights of INs, NGO-FONIN will focus on specific policies for improving the lives of indigenous women and children. Today, the generalized policies and programs are influenced by the social practices and attitudes of the elite group. This has a direct bearing on the conditions of indigenous women and children. The great number of street children in Nepal and an even greater number of girls being trafficked for sex and drugs are from indigenous groups. The Convention on the Right of Child and the rights to reproductive health of women is being ignored, so there is a need for a more proactive approach to be taken by the government to uphold the spirit of national and international laws but since a limited group of people have captured the social, economic and political power, the rest (INs, Dalits, women, disabled, etc.) do not have significant roles within the state apparatus (judiciary, legislative and executive branches), which means there is a lack of participation in the entire decision-making process. NGO-FONINs proactive approach to reverse this trend is further described in this strategic plan.

A.2 External Environmental Analysis

The impact of shifting government policy
Government policies for the social and development sectors have to be recognized as shaping factors for NGO-FONIN and all NGOs in Nepal. Government policy shifts may impede NGO functions as long as political simmering and an economic crisis continue. Since non-partisanship is not the norm for most NGOs in Nepal, any policy shifts that occur are usually disruptive to the development community as a whole.

NFDIN for example, is a government institution that must follow government policies in regards to INs. NGO-FONIN has to deal with NFDIN through policy advocacy and dialogue, and often NFDIN policies contradict NGO-FONIN objectives (INs rights). NEFIN, an NGO and federation of ethnicity specific organization of enlisted groups has long practised exclusion of its own groups - confining itself to 59 enlisted ones, yet also claims to be the “one” umbrella organization of INs in Nepal. The problem is that there are about the same number of INs who are yet to be recognized! Both the government and NEFIN have ignored these groups up until now. NGO-FONIN, who is not ignoring these un-recognized groups and is dealing with the reality of the situation, is also competing with NEFIN for scarce resources.

The “classless society” and the definition of “minority”
The political ideology advocating for a "classless society" is a considerable challenge for NGO-FONIN as well as for all INs. The existence of Indigenous Nationalities means the existence of "communities with diversity with distinct languages, cultures, traditional practices, traditional knowledge systems and customary laws, among others. People having this diversity are also entitled to special rights as guaranteed by the international instruments. The ideology of “classless society” does not accept this diversity.

And likewise, development agencies have another definition in regard to minorities. “Minority” is defined mostly by the extent in which there has been discrimination and domination of an elite group, of which INs may also be a part. If INs are to be treated as a minority only, their diversity will not be protected nor will be their special rights either, because minority groups as such do not have these special rights afforded. This means that both the ideology of “classless society” and the concept of “minority” held by developing agencies both encourage assimilation of INs and stand against diversity. This requires a persistent effort on NGO-FONINs part - by way of policy advocacy and dialogue - to prevail.

NGOs, IPOs and the International Indigenous Movement (IIM)
NGOs usually exist to represent a weaker section of society. But often the weaker sections of the society do not see this representation, as does the particular NGO. From the outside, society members see their representatives within NGOs serving their own interests. There is an absence of accountability. Comparatively, IPOs are seen as better serving their constituencies than NGOs. Within IPOs there is cultural cohesiveness among members. They often have more concern for their cultural identity, which in turn has made them vigilant about INs issues. However, there is absence of good governance fin most civil society organisations in Nepal.

The International Indigenous Movement (IIM) is gaining respect however. What shape this movement takes will be of great importance to the INs of Nepal, where the government and the political parties are neither responsive nor flexible. For example, the endorsement of land ownership for aborigines by the Australian Parliament, the creation of ethnicity-based rule in Mindanao/Cordillera in the Philippines, and the incorporation of all provisions of UNDRIP into the new constitution by the Bolivian government, are all outcomes of IIM having far-reaching effects on the movement worldwide.

The Nepali Government has ratified the ILO Convention 169 and implementation plans are in progress now. Also, UNDRIP 2007 has been ratified by the government. These are milestones for the INs movement in Nepal. However, during the current constitution-making process, there are signs that the new constitution may be unfavourable towards INs.

A.3 Rationale

With the establishment of NFDIN in 2002 under the Ministry of Local Development and followed by the formation of NEFIN as an umbrella organization of the enlisted Indigenous Nationalities, INs are now divided into two groups: one with the recognition and the other without recognition of their identity.

Both the NFDIN (a government institution) and NEFIN (an NGO), represent ethnicity-specific organizations that work for development and protection of the rights of INs by influencing policy makers in favour of IN issues, but are confined to only those groups that have government recognition. By function and responsibility, NFDIN is to carry out government policies in regards to INs. Political appointees or political party-supported nominees head NFDIN. They have confined themselves to work only for the enlisted groups (and government programs and budgets are all based on these numbers of enlisted groups). However, almost the same number of groups has been left out, and their economic, social, and cultural rights are being violated as they are being subjected to assimilation just to survive or compete, i.e. join another similar group that has been enlisted. For example, if a person from a non-enlisted group wants to apply for scholarship or other services, he or she has to have a certification from an enlisted ethnicity specific organization to become a legitimate contender. In the case of the Kirat group, one has to be certified as Rai despite his or her own distinct identity in order to be a legitimate contender for a scholarship.

In development activities run by NFDIN and NEFIN, political ideology seems to have over-run the free learning process of the communities and is limiting open participation in the system. On the other hand, development agencies are unaware of how many INs group members are without identity and that are being deprived of their rights to have access to state and other resources. After all, development agencies have been working only with the elite group of decision makers for many years. The need of an INs-focused program is thought to be crucial in order to expand the role of developing agencies. The formation of NGO-FONIN should be seen in this light.

NGO-FONIN was formally registered in 2004 with the Kathmandu District Administration, as a federation of IPOs and INs NGOs - regardless of whether a particular community had been recognized or not. To form a more representative INs organization and to facilitate all the issues of rights-based development of INs, it started with 11-member organizations. Prior to that, there was a forum called BAKULOCHANA (Bahing, Kulung, Lohorung, Chamling and Nachhiring) representing just 5 IPOs.

Nepal is a land of diverse Indigenous Nationalities. After the People's Movement in 1990, Indigenous People started to raise their voices about their basic rights. According to the 2001 census, there are 92 distinct languages spoken and 101 different ethnic groups in Nepal. Respecting the voice of the Indigenous People, the Government of Nepal formed a committee entitled National Foundation for Development of Indigenous Nationalities (NFDIN) with the purpose of bringing Indigenous People into the mainstream development of the country. In 2002, NFDIN under the Ministry of Local Development listed 59 Indigenous Nationalities. This process divided Indigenous People into two groups. One of which was recognised and the other not, left without recognition of their identity.

In response, NGO-FONIN worked informally through a forum called BAKULOCHANA (a forum made from the following groups: Bahing, Kulung, Lohorung, Chamling and Nachhiring) and represented 5 unlisted Indigenous Peoples Organisation (IPOs). BAKULOCHANA intervened when the Government and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) started work on a project that would threaten the access rights of Indigenous People to natural resources. IUCN was working on the registration of bio-diversity and was against the provision of the Convention on Biodiversity, Article 8 (j), on Access and Benefit Sharing. The Government did not have a clear policy on the implementation of the Biodiversity Declaration. Instead, it had a draft Bill that was not registered with the House of Representatives. BAKULOCHANA seriously threatened the project and soon after, the project stopped. In order to respond to the government to have the rights of Indigenous Nationalities incorporated into the Bill, the National Environmental Coalition of Indigenous Nationalities (NECIN) was formed. BAKULOCHANA and NECIN had several rounds of talks with the Government and IUCN submitted amendments to the Bill to have the rights of Indigenous People to natural resources secured as provided for in the Convention on Biodiversity Declaration. This was a lesson learnt for BAKULOCHANA. NGO-FONIN was formed with the objective of making collective efforts for securing an assortment of rights of Indigenous Nationalities.

Though NGO-FONIN was formally established in 2004 (2060 BS), the affiliated member organisations, and particularly BAKULOCHANA, Society for People in Needs (SPIN), COSFONAD, Shristhi etc. were already working on INs issues since 2001 (2058 BS) collectively. After 2004, NGO-FONIN was linked with other national and international organisations and implementing various program activities in collaborations and partnerships.

During the past 5 years, NGO-FONIN has worked with Asia Indigenous Peoples Pact (AIPP) Foundation, Asian Peoples' Alliance for Combating HIV/AIDS (APACHA), DanidaHUGOU, UNDP and NFDIN. However, DanidaHUGOU, AIPP, UNDP are the major supporters of these programs. From 2006, "Janajati Empowerment and Inclusion Project (JEIP)" is being implemented at the central level as well as in 10 districts with the support of DanidaHUGOU. This project is a milestone for NGO-FONIN. The project has played a major role in the strengthening of NGO-FONIN, its member organizations, and district networks - together with raising the issues of INs to the forefront.
[1] Majhi, Siar, Lhomi, Thudam, Dhanuk, Chepang, Satar/Santhal, Jhagad, Thami, Bote, Danuwar and Baramu
[2] Kusunda, Bankariya, Raute, Surel, Hayu, Raji, Kisan, Lepcha, Meche and Kusbadia

NGO-FONIN believes in the following values:
Mutual respect and understanding: respect for and understanding of each other as peoples engaged in a collective effort.
Equitability and Impartiality: treat each group on the basis of the principle of equity and impartiality without biases based on personal relations.
Participation and Transparency: in all aspects of the decision-making processes affecting INs way-of-life, whereas to value transparency over ad hoc decision-making practices and processes.
Partnership and Cooperation: partnership on equal footing (with mutual respect) regardless of group identity, valuing collective efforts and equally partnering between both “odd and even” groups.
Sincerity: a true commitment to the organization - and to any mission to be carried out.
Self-critical: a realization of one’s own positive and negative contribution to the fulfilment of any mission, and a commitment to looking at mistakes as learning.
Full Respect for Human Rights: to undertake only in development activities that respect human rights.
A.5 Capacity
Since various program activities have been implemented, NGO-FONIN, its member organizations, its network members have gained experiences in both management and program field. Some of the major achievements from the implementation of various program activities are:

1) An increase in membership, now 75 member organizations from 13.
2) Improvements in organizational systems and practices (policies, guidelines, rules/regulations).
3) Human resources development.
4) Establishment and mobilization of networks in 11 districts.
5) Better clarity on issues and strategies within NGO-FONIN and with its members.
6) More involvement in advocacy activities on various issues related to INs. Particularly, NGO-FONIN is now involved in such advocacy issues as: CA and representation, enlistment of INs who are yet to be recognized by the government; implementation of ILO convention 169; access to resources and good governance; and issues pertaining to biodiversity, languages and cultures. Similarly, NGO-FONIN has established and maintained relationships with various national and international organizations.

Similarly, from the implementation of various program activities, various learning experiences were gained by NGO-FONIN and the collaborative organizations. Specifically, the experiences gained were:
1) Organizational work experiences & capacity enhancement through system improvements
2) Clarity on issues and strategies.
3) An opportunity to reach the grass-root community through district networks, which helped surface issues and problems, as well as aspirations.

On the basis of lessons learnt during the implementation of program/activities, NGO-FONIN has reviewed and updated its Strategic 5-Year Plan. It has learnt that although the organization has initiated people-empowerment and policy influencing activities, in the context of the INs situation, these initiations are very primitive steps. For objective and sustaining results, there is a need for more effort – specifically in these areas:
(1) Local-level programs, which have been implemented through networks, are gathering momentum, if the networks could be strengthened and mobilized properly, programs would be run more efficiently.
(2) Developing and mobilization of local organization is the right way of empowering local INs. By the establishment of organizations managed by INs, they will have an opportunity to develop their management skills as well as leadership capacity, which will lead to sustainable development.
(3) The proper coordination and relationship building creates a collaborative working environment. So a priority should be given to better coordination, cooperation with women, Dalits and like-minded organizations, as well as government line agencies.
(4) Since the majority of INs are not aware about their rights and evolving INs movement at the national and international levels and they are not aware of national and international legal provisions, treaties, and conventions, there is a dire need of awareness program activities.
(5) The CA is an opportunity for INs to write the constitution in their favour and make an environment appropriate for their development but needs to make a better effort by coordinating with different INs groups, organizations and other like-minded organizations.

NGO-FONIN has learnt many things and gained much experience in terms of clarity on issues, working strategies, management aspects through the implementation of various program activities. NGO-FONIN has also learnt more from members, partners and other organisations and institutions through meetings and interactions, as well as receiving numerous comments and feedbacks.

Together with a significant increase in membership, there is a high expectation from member organizations as well. As INs organizations have no access to resources, the member organizations are expecting funding resources. There is a strong need for NGO-FONIN to link its member organizations with supporters so that together capacities can be enhanced.

In brief, NGO-FONIN has the following strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats:

Strengths
· An umbrella organization of INs (75 members) with legal entity.
· Established office that is reasonably equipped with furniture and fixtures, as well as a competent staff.
· NGO-FONIN is a system-based operation - financial policy, personnel policy, good governance policy, monitoring and evaluation guidelines, etc.
· NGO-FONIN partakes in long-term strategic planning.
· NGO-FONIN has experience in policy advocacy, research work, & program management.
· There is an elected board as well as volunteers.
· There are district-level networks already established.

Weaknesses
· Inadequate human resources.
· Lack of collaborative approach between members and stakeholders.
· Indifference to INs issues, even within NGO-FONIN.
· Lack of practice in INs system-based operations.
· Lack of a non-debatable INs leader.

Opportunities
· INs rights are the prominent issue, so there is ample opportunity for work.
· To see social inclusion as central agenda for government and with other key players involved in the re-development of Nepal.
· Opportunity to revive INs traditional systems.
· Opportunity to develop professionalism among INs organizations.
· Opportunity to spark donors and other supporters’ interests.

Threats
· Instable political situation.
· Increase in partisan politics.
· Overly high expectations with INs communities.
· Dwindling leadership between INs.

NGO-FONIN is an umbrella organization formed and headed by diverse groups of people having years of experience in social development works at national and international levels and in different capacities. Similarly, many of the member organizations are well experienced working in development field, which are able to handle the program activities on their own. The federation has a small management team with six staff to carry out day-to-day manage functions.
NGO-FONIN believes that participation of the marginalized groups in the development process can bring change in their socioeconomic status. Accordingly, NGO-FONIN is implementing the program activities with the direct involvement of the target groups.
Specifically, member organisations, networks, and local organisations are mobilised to support the communities in their own empowerment process. NGO-FONIN will play the role of facilitator to create an appropriate environment and opportunities for these groups. While playing this role, NGO-FONIN will maintain mutual understandings and coordination with other organisations having similar objectives. Before implementing any program, NGO-FONIN will facilitate target groups involvement in a situational study, analysis, and planning process. Similarly, NGO-FONIN will make efforts to help the INs and target groups in their development and welfare by closely working together with the responsible authorities, NGOs, and Development Action Societies (DAs). In doing so, NGO-FONIN will maintain a small team of staff with experts - based on the needs of the people, which will support all in enhancing their capacity and know how.

A.6 Vision, mission, objectives and strategies

Vision
An inclusive Nepal free of discrimination based on ethnicity.

Mission
All Indigenous Nationalities of Nepal are enjoying their individual and collective rights through the processes of empowerment and promotion of social inclusion.

Goal (Development objective or long-term objective)
All Indigenous Nationalities of Nepal fully understand their individual and collective rights and are claiming those rights.

Immediate Objectives
1 To facilitate the institutional development of NGO-FONIN and its member organisations to enable them to achieve their organisational visions, missions and objectives.
2 To ensure the civil, political, socioeconomic and cultural rights of all Indigenous Nationalities and to enhance their participation at all levels of state affairs.
3 To improve the livelihoods men and women from Indigenous Nationalities by enabling them to access resources, services and opportunities
4 To protect and promote bio-diversity and indigenous knowledge and cultural systems related to the development of Indigenous Peoples.

A.7 Resource and Sustainability Issues

NGO-FONIN is a federation of organizations run by Indigenous Peoples. Accordingly the federation's financial sustainability depends on the sustainability of her member organizations. With that said, a stable income strategy and sustainability plan is critical.

NGO-FONIN will strive to strengthen organizational capacity (including its member organizations) and its networks, so that resource generation is possible at each level. Efforts will be made to mobilise local resources, as well as securing access to government resources, which can support programs in a sustainable way. Similarly, the federation will make effort to work with international organisations, and donor agencies for core funding (long-term program support funding). For this, NGO-FONIN will coordinate and dialogue with potential supporters.

Income strategy plan highlights
· As a member-based organization, NGO-FONIN collects membership fees from its members as well as other contributions as based on ability.
· NGO-FONIN strategy is to mobilize local resources. It will enable its member organizations and local alliances to link with local government and other agencies for resources – allowing them to run activities on their own.
· Negotiate with the government to receive part of budget allocation for INs development in the country.
· Linkages and coordination will be made with national and international donor agencies for their support of NGO-FONIN programs.
· Resources are generated by establishing training centres at different districts & places that provide fee-based training. These trainings focus on multiple issues and themes concerning human-rights, development and social environment. NGO-FONIN will produce training materials on different subjects (also for fee) and contract out human resources to other development agencies and on other projects.

Sustainability plan highlights
Apart from regular budget monitoring of income and expenditure, NGO-FONIN will scrutinize its financial performance at the end of each year, and make this analysis transparent to the GA. Questions of financial sustainability will be put to the assembly in a participatory way, and subsequent decisions will be made that adopt appropriate policies and help achieve financial sustainability in the year to come. Efforts will be made to negotiate with the government to receive part of budget allocations for IN's development to help sustain activity.

A.8 Strategic Direction and Approach

Approaches
The matrix above provides a bird’s eye view of the strategic directions of NGO-FONIN. These directions, which are solidly linked to NGO-FONIN’s objectives, however, will materialise with the following approaches:

NGO-FONIN will “facilitate” the organisational development of its member organizations / networks / alliances and their mobilisation. This helps generate participation of communities at the grass-roots level when identifying their needs, planning actions and implementation of plans drawn. This will also help monitor community actions and evaluate participation during the programme management cycle.

As an umbrella organization assuming the role of "facilitator", NGO-FONIN focuses on the institutionalization process of its member organizations and networks, enabling them to mobilize their communities at the grass-roots level, and thus localise activities. INs issues that are addressed at the grass-roots level lend a clear understanding of the issues that these groups are faced with, and enable a dialogue with the leaders, line agencies and government.

NGO-FONIN selects its member organizations for affiliation and for forming networks on the basis of their objectives (INs HR & development) - a term we use here is 'like-minded' organizations.

To ensure the rights of INs and bring them into the mainstream of development, NGO-FONIN will take the following specific strategies:
1. In order to ensure the Rights of INs, NGO-FONIN will make collective efforts with its member organisations and alliances at local, regional and national levels. As mentioned earlier, where required these member organisations and alliances will be strengthened so as to enable them to effectively engage in empowerment and advocacy activities.
2. Help the marginalised indigenous nationalities to ensure their participation into development process by organising and supporting lobby and advocacy activities for influencing policy makers and implementers. Together with policy influencing, efforts will be made to improve living standard of indigenous communities by developing their knowledge, skills and attitude and linking them with the relevant and responsible authorities/government institutions.
3. Advocate and lobby for better accountability of government authorities who are responsible for the establishment of rights and proportional participation of marginalized indigenous peoples.
4. Carry out situational studies and analyses as well as develop appropriate strategies that get them implemented. In addition, to plan and implement programs with the marginalized groups for the proportional development of the indigenous peoples.
5. Maintain relationships and coordination with the government, NGOs, and DAs to secure the necessary assistance for development activities, and secure rights for indigenous peoples.
6. Take responsibility for effective monitoring and evaluation of member and partner organisations development activities.
7. In view of the experiences garnered by National Indigenous Women’s Federation (NIWF) in terms of empowerment rights of indigenous women, an effort will be made to implement many activities pertaining to the rights of indigenous women through NIWF.
8. Promote and protect bio-diversity and indigenous knowledge systems and cultures that are linked to the rights and development INs.

Presently, a total of 75 INs and INs NGOs are affiliated with NGO-FONIN and these are from 27 of the 75 districts in Nepal. Networks have been established in 11 districts: Ilam, Sunsari, Shakhuwashabha, Bhojpur, Khotang, Okhaldhunga, Solukhumbu, Sindhuli, Nawalparashi, Gorkha and Dolakha. During the next 5 years (2009-2013), NGO-FONIN will be linked to at list 60 districts with member organisations and will have established networks in at least 40 of these districts. Similarly three regional-level networks with regional offices will be established. Currently, out of 75 MOs, there are only 9 women member organizations. During the next 5 years, best efforts will be made towards narrowing the ratio of men and women organizations. To achieve this, awareness and empowerment activities for women will be launched.

B. Operational Plan

B.1 Goal and Objectives

Goal and Objectives are repeated from the Strategic Framework to show their logical linkage with the anticipated outputs and indicative activities to achieve these outputs

Goal (Development Objective or Long-term Objective)
All Indigenous Nationalities of Nepal understand their individual and collective rights and are claiming those rights.

Immediate Objectives
1 To facilitate the institutional development of NGO-FONIN and of its member organisations to enable them to achieve their organisational visions, missions and objectives.
2 To ensure the civil, political, socioeconomic and cultural rights of Indigenous Nationalities and to enhance their participation at all levels of state affairs.
3 To improve the livelihoods men and women from Indigenous Nationalities by enabling them to access resources, services and opportunities
4 To protect and promote bio-diversity and indigenous knowledge and cultural systems related to the development of Indigenous Peoples.

Indicators
· NGO-FONIN has successfully implemented its Institutional Development Plan as envisaged in its Strategic and Operational Plan and the number of NGO-FONIN member organisations engaging in empowerment and advocacy activities has increased from 10 to 30.
· Increased participation of Indigenous Nationalities in the socioeconomic and political processes
· Increased opportunities for Indigenous nationalities to foster their cultures

B.2 Outputs, Indicators and Indicative Activities

Output-1: NGO-FONIN and its member organisations are strengthened in terms of organizational skills[1], policies, structures, systems, procedures and good governance practices.

Indicators
· NGO-FONIN and at least 30 of its member organisations developed into popular, broad-based organisations with representation from NGOs working for the rights of Indigenous Nationalities at the local level.
· Strong documentation skills and effective reporting, monitoring and evaluation systems are in place in NGO-FONIN and in at least 30 member organisations (from the current 10).
· Improved organisational structures, policies, managerial/administrative procedures in place at NGO-FONION and at least 30 of its member organisations.
· There is a clear separation of powers between the Executive Board and the implementing staff both at NGO-FONIN and at least 30 of its member organisations.
· Board and staff members of NGO-FONIN and at least 30 of its member organizations have participated in a number of capacity-building measures in administrative and managerial (including financial administration and management) and in such substantive areas as social inclusion, human and indigenous peoples’ rights, rights-based approach to development, empowerment, advocacy and other areas mentioned in the Institutional Development Plan.

Indicative Activities
· Launching of institutional development activities as mentioned in the Institutional Development Plan.
· Further identification of OD and capacity building needs of member organisations and launching activities in these areas.
· Update of ethno-demographic data.
· Network building at the district level.

Output-2: Enhanced access of INs to resources, services and opportunities and to the decision-making process through political participation.

Indicators
· INs understand the importance of civil and political rights.
· INs are involved in various political parties.
· INs have acquired access to resources and the decision-making process.

Indicative Activities
· Organize alliance & network meetings to identify advocacy issues and better working methods at a national and district level.
· Have interaction and orientation with INs (Adibasi Janajati) organizations, and Indigenous Nationalities leaders on civil and political rights.
· Establish networks, alliances, and forums that are enabling for INs. Provide training to these alliances and networks on the rights of INs as provided under the existing domestic provisions and international human rights instruments.
· Provide training on organizational management, processes and procedures to the alliances and networks.
· Lobby with political parties and government leaders for expanding INs participation in decision-making process.
· Organize interactions and public hearings with INs (Adibasi Janajati people) on state restructuring, and collect their views and aspirations on this topic.
· Based on all of the above, organize interactions between INs and CA members belonging to these groups on state restructuring, so that shared understandings could be reached on issues pertaining to this important area.

Output-3: Domestic legal/policy provisions and the international conventions and treaties, including ILO convention 169, UNDRIP, UN Resolution 1325, Beijing +10, CEDAW, and the UN MDGs are being implemented, ensuring the rights of INs.
Indicators
· Government plans incorporate international laws and commitments including ILO Convention 169, and UNDRIP is in implementation.
· The new constitution is written based on the spirit of ILO Convention 169, UNDRIP, and other international conventions & treaties that address INs issues of institutionalized peace and harmony.
· The new constitution and legal provisions, state policies will have come into force ensuring INs rights.
· The Government ratifies the remaining international instruments regarding human rights and specifically regarding INs rights.
· The maximum number of IN organizations is consulted where partnerships are made with international donor agencies.

Indicative Activities
· Prepare a training manual on ILO Convention 169, UNDRIP, CEDAW, UNSCR 1325 and other instruments of human rights ratified by Nepal and not.
· Enhance the knowledge and skills (including TOT) of member organizations on ILO Convention 169 and UNDRIP along with CEDAW and UNSCR 1325.
· Encourage people awareness programs on ILO Convention 169, UNDRIP, and CEDAW, UNSCR 1325.
· See the formation of alliances & networks at the local, regional and national levels and making sure that civil-society organizations are working on the issues.
· Lobby & advocate the concerned authorities for the formulation of laws and policy as well as implementing ILO Convention 169, UNDRIP, and other international conventions & treaties.
· Lobby for protection, preservation and development of INs traditional knowledge, skills, and customary laws relating to biodiversity possessed by indigenous women.
· Publication of human rights instruments into simple Nepali language such as: ILO C. 169, UNDRIP, CEDAW, and UNSCR 1325.
· Production and transmission of audiovisual materials to share with the state and civil society on the rights of indigenous nationalities.
· Monitoring of policies, practices and reporting & sharing tools.

Output-4: NGO-FONIN has launched national and local level advocacy activities for the recognition of Indigenous women’s identity by the state, and for ensuring the rights of indigenous women.

Indicators
· Proposal submitted to amend the Interim Constitution submitted.
· Proposal submitted to incorporate the indigenous women’s issues in the new constitution
· Proposals discussed in the Constituent Assembly.
· Indigenous women’s issues included in the women’s movement in Nepal.
· Indigenous women’s issues addressed in government policy pronouncements

Indicative Activities
· Sensitize indigenous and non-indigenous women Constituent Assembly (CA) members on the issues of indigenous women of Nepal.
· Form a caucus of indigenous women CA members.
· Sensitize members of the CA draft committee, technical committee, women and children committee and other committees formed on the issues of indigenous women.
· Work in coordination with NEFIN and NFDIN for the development of a draft federal structure on the basis of ethnicity, regionalism, and linguistics together with the rights of self-determination.
· Organize consultative meetings, lobby & advocacy activities to ratify the draft federal structure prepared.
· Sensitize state policy makers, planners and civil society in general on indigenous women’s issues and problems.

Output-5: Reduction in multiple forms of violence, discrimination, inequalities and injustices faced by indigenous women within and outside the community.

Indicators
· A decrease in incidents of violence against women.
· Legislative Act and legal provisions in place to stop the violence and discrimination against women.

Indicative Activities
· To identify problems, collect data, study and analyses problems of conflict that affect women and children as well as organize an awareness raising-program on UNSCR 1325 in conflict-affected districts.
· Carry a study on the extent that the rights of indigenous women are being violated as well as to perform an analysis based on international, national, and local-level human rights violations.
· Lobby and advocate for a program for gender and ethnic rights of conflict affected women and children.
· Launch a legal treatment and consultancy program for the indigenous women who are victims of violence, discrimination, and injustices in 40 districts.
· Lobby and advocate, ensuring the right to justice and legal treatment - free from social and domestic violence - at both the local and national levels.

Output-6: The “endangered”[2] indigenous communities are organised and mobilised for their rights.
Indicators
· The endangered communities understand the situation of their communities vis-à-vis other communities
· Endangered communities begin to understand their rights and also begin to claim these rights
· Endangered communities enhance their access to resources, opportunities and services

Indicative Activities
· Organize meetings and workshops with the endangered community members regarding the organisational formation process.
· Establishment of women organizations (including registration at administration office, affiliation at the Social Welfare Council) of Raute, Kusunda, Kusbadiya, Raji, Lepcha, Kisan, Meche, Surel, Hayu and Bankariya groups.
· Organize and support on organizational development process of newly formed indigenous women organizations.
· Awareness raising activities on the rights of endangered groups
· Organize campaigns for the rights for the endangered groups.

Output-7: Improved livelihoods of Indigenous Nationalities through enhanced economic activities.
Indicators
· Income-generation organizations, networks, and alliances are established
· Increased access to productive resources and technologies
· Enhanced economic status

Indicative Activities
· Conduct a need assessment on INs economic activities.
· Explore alternatives to income generation and conduct a market study.
· Form economic groups, alliances, and networks.
· Generate income as per identified areas.
· Grow capacity (knowledge & skill development) thru activities.
· Lobby and advocate to policy makers so that appropriate policies are formulated and implemented.

Output-8: Biodiversity, agro-biodiversity and cultural resources protected and promoted from which INs are benefitting

Indicators
· NGO-FONIN and MO human resources have been trained and are engaged in protection and promotion of biodiversity at the community level
· Increasing number of Indigenous Nationalities understand the importance of protection of biodiversity
· Government brings policies and programmes on the protection and promotion of biodiversity as a result of advocacy activities carried out by NGO-FONIN and its member organisations
· Existing cultural practices that are conducive to biodiversity protection and conservation are further promoted as cultural resources.
· Community people are involved in protection and promotion of biodiversity, agro-biodiversity, bio-cultural knowledge and culturally important places.

Indicative Activities
· People awareness activities on biodiversity, agro-biodiversity, bio-cultural knowledge, and cultural resources
· Carry out research activities on biodiversity, agro-biodiversity, bio-cultural knowledge and cultural resources
· Develop human resource for holding educational campaigns on the issues.
· Lobby and advocate activities for formulating proper policies and execution
· Protection and promotional of biodiversity and cultural resources

[1] In substantive areas such as advocacy, social inclusion, gender, human rights, including indigenous rights, reporting, documentation, financial management, including financial administration and accounting, among others)
[2] Raute, Kusunda, Kusbadiya, Raji, Lepcha, Kisan, Meche, Surel, Hayu and Bankariya

The General Assembly (GA)
The General Assembly (GA), composed of the general members, is the supreme body of the organization. All major policy decisions are made by the General Assembly and the GA meets at least once a year. Decisions in the General Assembly are made on the basis of consensus or majority votes. Attendance of at least 51% of the general members will be the required quorum for conducting the General Assembly. The chairperson of the Board of Directors will chair the General Assembly.
The Central Committee (EC)
The central committee (Executive Committee) is formed through election from among the representatives of member organizations. Elections are convened once every three years by convention. The present central committee consists of 17 members and is headed by the chairperson. It meets every 3 months. Since travel to meetings is prohibitive for some members, a secretariat is set up consisting of a member group, which meets at least once a month or more (if necessary) to discuss urgent matters and to make urgent decisions. The decisions taken by the secretariat are put up in the quarterly meetings of the committee for final approval. The central committee makes decisions regarding operations and programmes of NGO-FONIN in line with the policy guidance provided by the general assembly. On behalf of the central committee, the secretariat closely monitors the implementation of programme activities being carried out by the staff members under the executive director. Beside the secretariat, the NGO-FONIN has sub-committees and can constitute additional committees under the central committees as and when necessary.

Management Functions
An administrative unit heads the overall program management function of the organisation and is led by the Executive Director (ED). The ED is responsible for implementing the decisions made by the general assembly and the central committee and is also responsible for implementing the approved plans and programmes of the organisation. The ED makes decisions regarding day-to-day administrative functions - i.e. standard procedures of the office (SPOs) as well as implementation of the programme activities in accordance with the guidance of policy decisions of the GA and the EC. The ED makes such decisions in consultation with the “in-charges” of the departments and programmes of the organisation.

A management committee under the leadership of the ED makes decisions regarding the management issues of office, staff, and programme management personnel. This management committee is composed of the ED and In-Charge of programmes, finance, and administration.
Departments
With the aim of supporting and systematising programs, NGO-FONIN has different departments headed by respective experts. The departments are managed by staff members with experience and expertise on the respective subjects. However, this departmentalisation is a relatively new development within NGO-FONIN and some departments, particularly the one pertaining to women and children will have to be fully functional with needed staffing and logistics support. After the department becomes fully functional, the staff will guide and support the organisational program activities in terms of planning, organising, implementing, monitoring and making suggestions for appropriate policy formulation and effective management of these departments. The departments are as follows:
(1) Program planning and implementation
(2) Financial management
(3) Human resource and organisation development
(4) Information and communication,
(5) Women and children
(6) Human rights and advocacy
(7) Monitoring, evaluation and research.

Staff
There will be 17 staff by the end of this Strategic Plan period. NGO-FONIN will have department heads (managers/coordinators), issue leaders/advocacy officer, program officers, finance and admin officer, and program support staff. NGO-FONIN intends to have a gender target of 50:50 when recruiting personnel. For more information on staffing, see C. Institutional development Plan.

B.6 Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E)
Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) will be carried out to maximize our performance and use of resources. The Program Planning & Monitoring department will handle this activity.

A participatory monitoring process will be adopted for each program activity, in which the implementer, beneficiaries and any concerned authorities will be involved in that process. A broad review and reflection will be made on the implementation of program activities, and best practices found will be replicated. An overall program review will be made the Program Coordinator. Similarly, a mass auditing (social audit) will also be held annually. A detailed review and reflection will be made during the audit. The beneficiaries, collaborating organizations, concerned authorities, and like-minded parties will be invited to participate in the social auditing.

A program progress report will be produced mid-year and annually. These reports will include reflections, a report on the program implementation process, any learning’s and future recommendations. The annual report will also be shared with responsible authorities, like-minded organizations, and right-holders.

C. Institutional Development Plan

The Institutional Development Plan is a major part of our overall strategic plan. NGO-FONIN is, from very beginning, developing policies and procedures that lead us toward systemisation and cohesive institutionalisation. Also, since human resource is a major factor in achieving our organisational goals, we are paying close attention to recruiting and developing competitive human resources. We are focusing on enhancing the capacity of existing human resources, to include board members, member organizations, and staff in networks. Workers with INs status are taking part in development process for the first time, presenting new human resource challenges, and similarly, the majority of member organizations lack experience and are first time participants in a development process. So NGO-FONIN has a strategy of targeting people in their development process and by helping them act for themselves. This ensures that these targeted workers gain valuable experience.

NGO-FONIN will help the INs and target groups by closely working together with the responsible authorities, NGOs, and DAs. NGO-FONIN will maintain a small team of staff with experts who will support the “endangered” indigenous groups and member organisations by enhancing their capacity and know how. Our plan for the next 5 years is to have a total of 17 staff, which will start with 10 staff in 2009, 16 in 2010, and 17 will be on board from 2011 onwards.

NGO-FONIN and its member organizations have a number of key strengths with a strong commitment to INs causes. But commitment alone is not sufficient to achieve the goals of the organisation. There needs to be clear policies, procedures, including plans with roadmaps of how NGO-FONIN and each member organisation will achieve its goals. The following is included to demonstrate that NGO-FONIN has such roadmaps:

Under the institutional development plan, NGO-FONIN will have both organizational development and capacity enhancement activities. For enhancing our organisational systems, we will develop policies, procedures, & guidelines. Various trainings and workshops will be held as needed. Areas of need will be determined through an operational development assessment. Efforts will be made to acquire both national and international levels of training and exposure.

Though NGO-FONIN has been organising various training, workshop exercises, there are many new organisations that need to enhance their knowledge and skill levels. These training & exposure activities will continue. Leadership training with other required knowledge and skill sets is key to the future of NGO-FONIN, MOs, and networks.

Development comes from being able to explore new ideas so it is important that external trainers and subject-matter experts deliver trainings. Exposure visits to observe best practice and success stories in other organizations will be organised. NGO-FONIN and MOs need to raise funds for this activity. This requires our organization to be credible with donors, and here in comes the importance of good governance, sound financial management, good day-to-day management and excellent planning and program implementation that include M&E.

To achieve our organisational goals of developing appropriate plans and guidelines and to ensuring all appropriate staff have the necessary skills and knowledge to conduct effective management, we have planned to build the capacity of our staff. Since employee satisfaction is recognized to be the single biggest contributor to overall organizational performance and staff involvement & participation, NGO-FONIN will strive to develop a participatory culture as well as provide staff opportunities to enhance knowledge and skills.
Details of the short and medium-term institutional development activities are presented in the following table.

ANNUAL WORK PLAN AND BUDGET

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1. Introduction/Background/Context

This Annual Work Plan and Budget (AWAB) of NGO-Federation of Nepalese Indigenous Nationalities (NGO-FONIN) is for the period of 17 Ashadh 2066 to 32 Ashadh 2067 (1 July 2009 – 16 July 2010). The AWAB is part of NGO-FONIN's Strategic and Operational Plan (StOP). This is developed as a tool to implement the activities outlined in the StOP on a yearly basis. As a blueprint of NGO-FONIN for the next five years, the StOP is the base for developing AWAB. AWAB also provides means of monitoring quantitative and financial achievements against NGO-FONIN’s specific targets and taking necessary corrective measures. AWAB is a management tool and control mechanism to be used for guiding prudent resource allocation and management and for timely execution of the activities.

In the process of developing the AWAB, NGO-FONIN Board and staff discussed the plan and current issues and priorities. The plan also incorporated the recommendations of the ODC Institutional Assessment report on NGO-FONIN. Since this is the first and transitional year for implementing the StOP, the AWAB is prepared for twelve and a half months starting from 17 Ashadh 2066 and ending on 32 Ashadh 2067 (July 1, 2009 - July 16, 2010). Therefore, this AWAB consists of four quarters in which the first quarter will be of three and a half months. The Fiscal Year (FY) for NGO-FONIN will be Nepali FY that starts from 1st Shrawan and ends with Ashadh every year of Nepali calendar.

The AWAB has also incorporated the activities and budgets of some ongoing program activities of NGO-FONIN funded by other international partner organizations. AWAB being a dynamic document, NGO-FONIN will always be ready to address any challenges arising concerning its focus of work and incorporate corrective actions accordingly.

The following International partners have committed to support for the activities mentioned in the AWAB.

DanidaHUGOU and Action Aid Nepal (AAN) are NGO-FONIN's Strategic Partners. UNDP is an existing International Partner. ILO is an expected partner. Consultations are ongoing with many potential International Partners, including the Lutheran World Federation and International Labour Organisations, ESP/DFID and Asia Indigenous Peoples’ Pact (AIPP).

2. Expected Results/Outcomes

In order to provide a glimpse of the connection between the StOP and this AWAB the goal and objectives mentioned in the StOP are briefly mentioned below. The matrix in section 2 presents the details of the outputs and the results/outcomes to be achieved during the AWAB period.

Goal:
All Indigenous Nationalities of Nepal understand their individual and collective rights and will be claiming those rights

Objective-1: To facilitate institutional development of NGO-FONIN and of its member organisations to enable them to achieve their organisational visions, missions and objectives

Objective-2: To ensure the civil, political, socioeconomic and cultural rights of Indigenous Nationalities and to enhance their participation at all levels of state affairs

Objective-3: To improve the livelihood of men and women from Indigenous Nationalities by enabling them to have access to resources, services and opportunities

Objective-4: To protect and promote bio-diversity and indigenous knowledge and cultural systems related to the development of Indigenous Peoples.

The matrix below presents output level performance indicators as well as the activities to be implemented during this AWAB period.

Executive summery ( Reports of 2064/2065)

2009-08-01T05:35:00.000-07:00

This annual progress report of NGO-FONIN intends to cover the past one year program activities of the year 2006/7 (2063/64). During the period, different program activates were undertaken through collaboration with its member organisations. This report has been prepared based on regular program monitoring, and consultations with NGO-FONIN team, member organizations, district networks. To make the report much in line with NGO-FONIN's program activities, outputs and findings of interactions have been placed as appropriately as possible and special attention given to reflections from members, district networks and communities, as well. The report has been presented in five parts that include executive summary of the whole program achievements.The Second Popular peoples' movement brought remarkable changes in the country in 2063. The movement has re-instated democracy by displacing the active monarch and Nepalese peoples have become sovereign. It has also succeeded in mainstreaming the rebellions (Maoist) group into national political mainstream.The daily unexpected Mass Meetings, Banda programs organized by political parties and interest groups are making the daily lives of general mass more complicated. Due to the political situation, economic condition of the country was also hampered. Similarly, global economy also affected the nation.Indigenous peoples are becoming conscious of their socio-political rights and coming into organizations to raise collective voice of rights. The landless people, Kamaiya, raised their voices for land rights. As Hindu religions observed different religious, cultures, festivals and functions and practices, the Nepalese Indigenous peoples also started to observe their festivals and cultural practices.As monsoon was started on time, agriculture production is found satisfactory this year. Prices of fuel oil, electricity, chemical fertilizers increased more as compared to farmers' products price, which caused negative effects on their agriculture products even the monsoon was timely.Programs and achievements:The year of 2063/64 was a very progressive year of NGO-FONIN. It succeeded to get access to resource first time. Agreement between DanidaHUGOU and NGO-FONIN has made possible for conducting Janajati Empowerment and Inclusion Project (JEIP), a 21 month project. The objective of the program is to mainstreaming of IPs in national development process. The program include 1) support in organisational development process of NGO-FONIN, its member organisations, 2) launch advocacy activities and 3) support in strengthening good governance.Organisational Development:NGO-FONIN conducted various activities under organisational development and capacity building aspects. The achievements made under organisational development can be classified as 1) Increase in size of the organisation, 2) human resource 3) physical facility 4) organisational system development and 5) capacity enhancement programs.Number of FONIN affiliated member organizations increased from 13 to 53. IPs are seen keen to be organised have established organisation and affiliated to NGO-FONIN. Office has been equipped with necessary furniture and equipments including communication facilities. From the year 2006 it has managed five regular staff for implementing its program activities. There are also part time staff and volunteers.Various activities were carried out under organisational system development as a) regular meeting, monitoring activities and b) Renewal of organisation c) Policy/guide line like good governance, financial policy; human resource policy, etc were developed. Similarly various workshops related to organisation development were organised. Publications like Adibasi Gunjan (bulletin), NGO-FONIN broachers were also published.Fiscal year 2063/64 can be taken as training year of NGO-FONIN. A lot of trainings on various fields were organised which has supported to enhance knowledge, and skills of NGO-FONIN members, staffs and member organisations. Financial management, rights based approach and advocacy, IPs' rights and human rights, leadership development, social inclusion, monitoring and evaluation, proposal writing, cooperative etc were major trainings conducted during the year. These events have supported the professional growth of the NGO-FONIN and its member organizations to be effective in program application and carry out the regular work. Likewise with aiming to learn from other organisations/programs, two exposure visits were organised for its members and staff, as well. Orientation on HIV/AIDS, Gender, Dalit issues and various sharing, were also organised.Programs:NGO-FONIN implemented various program activities during the fiscal year 2063/64. The program was focussed on indigenous peoples’ rights movement as indigenous people empowerment and policy influencing activities. Organisation development, establishing networks and enhancing their capacity were some of the major program activities under the empowerment and various interaction, workshops, demonstrations/ Advocacy campaigns were under policy influencing. Various awareness activities with IPs were organised at district level. By these awareness activities, the IPs are becoming aware about the cause of marginalization and their rights. Because of these awareness campaigns, district and village level IPs committees were formed and involved in their development activities.Before organising advocacy campaigns, NGO-FONIN had carried out issue identification activities and on the basis of issues, it had organised its advocacy campaigns. During the period, NGO-FONIN organised three different workshops on Issue Identification, which identified as 1) constituent assembly and establishment of federal democratic republic state, 2) enlistment of IPs those who were not enlisted under NFDIN act 2058, 3) issue of access to and control over resources, 4) ILO convention 169 as major issues.Various orientation and interaction on the issues were held with NGO-FONIN board members, staff, and member organisations before to held advocacy campaigns. Similarly, on the issues identified, various lobbies, interactions, demonstration activities were carried out with aiming to influencing respective authorities. Various interaction programs were organized on biodiversity and IPs right issues. Various IPs organizations, people, respective authorities, NGOs took part in the program. NGO-FONIN conducting "Aadivasi Gunjan" (i.e. voice of indigenous peoples) from Times F.M. from which various information about IPs right issues were aired. It is broadcasting news, information on indigenous peoples culture, religion, history and their situation and discussions on various issues of indigenous peoples. On the occasion of International Indigenous Peoples day, 9 August 2006, NGO-FONIN also organized a one day interaction program to observe the Day.NGO-FONIN has been implementing its program through partnership, network, alliances with its member organizations. It has given attention towards people organisation and their organisational development. Organisations were established at local and district level and efforts were made on establishing and enhancing of networks and alliance. As Janajati Empowerment and Inclusion Project (JEIP) has been implementing in 10 districts through 10 member organisations under the project major focus has been made on establishing and strengthening of district based IPs organisations network and organise advocacy campaigns for increasing of IPs access to resources. A total of 10 district networks have been established and various interaction and knowledge, skill sharing activities have been organised to enhance their capacity. Similarly, various lobby and advocacy campaigns are being organised by the networks.NGO-FONIN carried out a research on Indigenous Peoples' Human Rights Report in Nepal With the support of Asia Indigenous Peoples' Pact (AIPP) Foundation. This report shows that the IPs human rights have become a neglected area of concern for the government in Nepal.Various meetings, workshops were organised to review and develop new plans and strategy of the programs. In the process, past implemented programs were reviewed and on the basis of learning, new strategies were developed. Similarly learning sharing programs were also organise with the aim to impart knowledge, experiences. Internal and external visitors and observers from different organizations and places visited NGO-FONIN and its member organisations' program, which provided an opportunity of sharing ideas, learning experiences between visitors and NGO-FONIN.With the aim to share experience and information Adibasi Gunjan a bulletin was published, which included the program activities conducted by NGO-FONIN, various information related to IPs and their issues.For maintaining relation and making collective efforts towards achieving common goals, NGO-FONIN has made effort towards coordination, linkage, networking with individuals, organizations, institutions at local and national levels. During the period, NGO-FONIN participated various forums and interaction program activities organised by different national and international organisations like UN High Commission on Human Rights, UNDP, ActionAid, VSO, NEFIN, and other organisations. These has supported in relation building with the respective organisations/agencies.NGO-FONIN has affiliated to “Asia People Alliance for Combating HIV/AIDS (APACHA)” and involved various activities conducted by the alliance. It has also making effort to receive membership from AIPP. An application has been submitted for membership.NGO-FONIN felt various problems and threats as 1) resource constraint (financial and professional human resources) is one of the major obstacles in reaching the program to large area, 2) the program activities implemented could not have proper follow up; 3) unstable political situation was also another obstacle during the program implementation. As various unions and interest groups are fighting for their rights, they blockade of roads, transportation and services as the tool for their advocacy, 4) not able to cash the opportunities, 5) lacked support to new member organisations 6) lacking to connect IPs in western part of Nepal, 7) establishment of organisations as institution, 8) making equal understanding of issues 9) delay on implementing JEIP program.NGO-FONIN will make efforts towards people organisation and institution development, for which efforts will be made for arranging and managing resources. It will also make effort to explore partners or support organisations and building networks for achieving its objectives. NGO-FONIN’s program will focus towards capacity building of its member organisations as well as of district based organisations. To influence policy makers and responsible authorities, right advocacy campaigns will be conducted. Specifically attention will be given towards improving the lacking as a) Effort to be made on access to resources, b) Member organisation expansion to western part c) Extension of district network and strengthening them, d) Equip NGO-FONIN with human resource, physical facilities e) Support member organisations to strengthen them f) Follow up of existing program g) IPs women participation, h) Make equal understanding of issues among IPs i) Strengthening of document/information sharing.

Reports of NGO-FONIN(2064/65)

2009-06-06T06:05:00.000-07:00

1. Introduction

The "NGO-Federation of Nepalese Indigenous Nationalities (NGO-FONIN)" is an umbrella organization of the IPOs and INs' NGOs, run by the Indigenous Nationalities (INs). Its vision is to create a fair and equitable society through ensuring rights of INs and mainstreaming them into the development process. it aims to achieve its vision by facilitating the marginalized indigenous nationalities in their empowerment process and influencing policies and procedures, to create an environment for their involvement in development process. For this NGO-FONIN make collective efforts together with the like-minded organisations of the indigenous peoples. Accordingly, it has been involved in various program activities from its inception. This is an annual report of fiscal year 2064/65 (2007/8) which include the activities carried out by NGO-FONIN from Shrawan, 2064 to Ashad, 2065. As per its annual plan it has carried out various program activities related to INs issues during the period. As its strategic approach is to work through partnership, network/alliances, it has applied its organisational values, systems, approaches accordingly. This report highlights the achievements made against plan objectives during the period of 2064/65 along with the learning, recommendations for the future programs. In this report, both the qualitative and quantitative achievements have been presented. The report has been prepared based on regular program monitoring, consultation with respective right holders, member organisations, and district networks. The comments, feedbacks from respective right holders, member organisations during program implementation are incorporated. To make the report much in line with NGO-FONIN program activities, outputs and findings of interactions during different events are presented as appropriate and attention is given to review and reflections from members, and networks. In the process of preparing this report, NGO-GONIN reviewed the overall program activities with the involvement of its member organisations, board members and staff members.

2. Political, Social, Economic Situation:

The interim Constitution, 2007 was adopted and interim parliament was formed. The CPN Maoists became the part of the parliamentary democratic process when it joined the government on 1 February 2007, giving new hope to the Nepali people. As the mandate of this parliament was to hold election for Constituent Assembly, which was not taking place due to the different political interests of the political parties as well as unfavourable environment. The CA had to be held in May/June 2007, was postponed and was fixed to hold on 22 November 2007. As NCP Ma oist put demand to get Nepal declared a republic state before going for the CA election and adoption of full proportionate election system for the CA, the date of the election was put off again (5th August 2007). As the demands of the Maoist were not met, they withdrew representation from the government on 18 September 2007. Again the 7 political parties reached an agreement by fulfilling Maoist's demands, some amendments to the CA election system and increasing the number of constituent assembly members from 497 to 601. On 11, January 2008, the cabinet decided to hold the election for the constituent assembly in a single phase on 10 April. However, there were still many unresolved problems including Madheshi, INs, women issues, because of which there was no certainty of the election to be held on the fixed date. As the CA was a great opportunity for the marginalised and disadvantaged people to decide their fate by making a new constitution. In this context, INs were raising voice to ensure representation of each ethnic group in the constituent assembly on the basis of language/culture, gender, and geography or by enlisting those who have not yet been enlisted. For this, NGO-FONIN took into consideration the changing political scenarios, particularly the Constituent Assembly process in its advocacy activities. The fiscal year 2064/65 has been observed as the historical year as the constituent assembly elections despite uncertainties took place as the major achievement of the 2nd popular people movement 2062/63. The result of the elections clearly showed that Nepalese people wanted change in the country. The elections have established the CPN Maoist as the largest party securing 220 seats out of the total 575 in the CA election followed by Nepali congress (110 seats) and CPN United Marxist Leninist (103 seats). The Medheshi Janadhikar Forum and Terai-Madesh Loktantrik Party emerged as new forces securing 52 and 20 seats respectively. After the elections the state has been declared democratic republic state removing 240 years autocratic kingship in Nepal. For a long time uncertainty and debates, bargaining among major political parties, the portfolio including chairman of CA, President, vice-president ensued but were at last settled and the first democratic republican interim government of Nepal was formed with coalition of 5 parties under the leadership of CPN Maoist. However, the government organs have become almost defunct and the newly formed government needs some time to come into action. People hardly feel the presence of government in the country and it seems that mobocracy has become the rule. The country has been engulfed with shortage of daily necessities and life has become more difficult than ever before combined with insecurity. The marginalised groups of people including Indigenous Nationalities raised their voices for ensuring representation in the CA of each caste, ethnic/language/culture proportionately. Particularly, INs were demanding their representation to be made on the basis of recommendation made by the representative organisation of the respective ethnic/language/culture groups. But, this could not happen and many ethnic groups did not have their representation. As the elections were already concluded, there was no alternative but to accept the CA poll results and take step towards making a constitution to favour INs issues. But after the election, INs' movement has not taken momentum. Though there is dire need of continued interaction, lobby/advocacy activities for addressing INs issues, only minor activities have been taking place. However, the year has become a historical for INs of Nepal. Though the representation of INs could not be ensured on the basis of recommendation by INOs’, as political parties' nominees about 34% of INs CA members came in the CA for the first time in the history of Nepal. Likewise, a total of 33% are women and out of the total women members, about 35 % (70) are INs women. A total of about 6 % are Dalit CA members. The important instrument pertaining to the rights of INs “ILO convention 169” was ratified by Nepal government on 22 August, 2007 (5 Bhadra 2064). Similarly, the UN endorsed the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), which has already been signed by Nepal government and this will be moral obligation for the government to INs rights. People observed different religious, cultural festivals, function as per their culture and practices in the same way Indigenous peoples also observed their festivals & cultural practices as per their cultures in the year. The government has recognised the Tamu Lochhar as national festival for the first time, of Tamu Gurung community to be observed on 15 Poush each year. Still many cultural festivals belonging to INs are not given recognition. INs also observed 15th world indigenous peoples day (9th August) with various functions, demonstrations and raising voices for their rights. As the monsoon started on time, the agriculture farming took place on time, farmers were relieved. Monsoon farming production was found satisfactory in the year. The fruit production was also reported to be satisfactory this year. Price of fuel oil increased. Accordingly as the transportation costs were increased the prices of commodities were also increased including, agriculture inputs (production support materials: chemical fertilizer, pesticide). As a result, farmers were not benefited from their agriculture product this year even the monsoon was timely.

3. The Context:

Nepal is a land of diversity in terms of caste, ethnicity, language, culture, and religion as well as geography. The constitution of Nepal (article 3) has accepted that, Nepal is characterized with multi-ethnic, multi-lingual, multi-religious, and multi-culture. Unfortunately, all of these castes, ethnicities, language, and culture have not been given equal space in their development process. Specifically, the Indigenous Nationalities (INs), Dalits, women are marginalized from the mainstream of national development process. The Indigenous peoples (Indigenous Nationalities) are one of Nepal's most disadvantaged groups, which comprised more than 37% of the country’s total population. Despite comprising such a large segment of the population, INs have been systematically marginalized and discriminated by the policies, laws, and activities of the state. As a result, many of them are pushed behind in the political, economic, social, cultural and educational sectors. Nepal Living standard survey, 2003/04 has shown that absolute poverty to have decreased from 42 to 31 in the last 10 years due to various reasons: opportunity encashment and flow of large amount of remittances into the country. However, during the same period the difference between the rich and poor (gini coefficient has increased from 0.34 to 0.41) is seen to have increased. (Interim Plan, NPC). High incidence of poverty is found among dalits (46%), hill ethnic groups (44%) and Muslim (41%). According to national census 2001, total literacy rate of Nepal is 53.8%, the male and female literacy rate is 65% and 42.5% respectively. Amongst people above 15 years of age, 34.6% of women are literate where as 62.2% of men are literate. The literacy rate as a whole differs significantly by ethnic/caste groups and sex. (CBS, Nepal, 2001 census). According to interim plan 2008-2010, the literacy rate of INs and non-INs (Bramin/chhetries) is 48.8% and 72.3% respectively. The total rate of school admission in the primary schools is 87.4 percent. Of the total children of school going age, the percentages of girls, Indigenous peoples groups, and disabled are 48, 38, and 1 respectively. The percentage of teachers at primary level is 30.6, and 17.8 of female, and INs respectively. INs women teachers are countless. Due to the discriminatory cultural practices, women are lagged behind in all spheres of development. According to 2001 data, among the literate people (above 15 years of age) 34.6% women are literate whereas 62.2% men are literate. Another development indicator is life expectancy, which shows women have 60.7 and men have 61.1 years; 5.86% women and 94.14% men represented in the parliament. In the civil service, women have 8.55%, whereas men 91.45%. In the case of property ownership, 10.84% of women have land ownership, whilst 89.16% of men have ownership of land (GEPRB CNGO/Canada Nepal, page-8). This situation has not only caused women to lag behind, but also the national development is seriously affected.

Impact in the life of INs by the political change:

Various political changes were taken place in the history and various policies and programs were adopted. However no changes have made in the life of marginalised people including INs. After the people movement of 1990, since the 8th five year plan INs development mainstreaming policy has been adopted. But the initiatives seem very much nominal in comparison to the issues and the problems. No substantial changes were achieved till the completion of 10th five year plan implementation period. Even after the second popular movement of 2006, no remedial policies and actions has been taken place. The interim plan (2065/66-067/68) has also come as the continuity of the past plans and implemented similar program activities as it was earlier. However after the second popular people movement, there is some hope as the state has initiated debates on social inclusion and state restructuring as well as abolishing some of the discriminatory provisions of the constitution; like after the people movement of 2006, Nepal has been declared a secular state. The State has also ratified ILO convention 169 on 22 August 2007, which is an important tool for ensuing INs rights. At the same time the UN has also declared UNDRIP. Both of these (ILO Convention 169 and UNDRIP) have to come into practice. As the INs are lagged behind in all spheres of development, and have no access to information, they are not aware about the legal provisions, treaties, conventions etc. They can not derive any benefit from such national and international instruments being signed and endorsed by the state. The long awaited constitution assembly has now been established in the country with the emergence of new regional political forces and having 212 (about 34%) IPs members elected to the Assembly from different political parties. Similarly, the Indigenous-women have their representation of about 26% out of 33.22% of women representation. Differences among the political parties have persisted hinting at political instability. From the peaceful polls for the constituent assembly and the unprecedented presence of INs members in it, the INs as well as other common people have not been able to feel free from the uncertainty that surrounds them. Accountability of both the parties and the government to the peoples is yet to be seen. The shaky political environment has least indication of a situation in which the weaker sections (specifically the INs) of the society can feel secured. There is doubt at every corner of the society. The number of INs CAMs present in the CA is inspiring for an INs. The INs have contributed a lot to any of the social/political movements that have taken place in Nepal till date. They have been used for an optimum level by all political parties to achieve their political aspirations. The INs as well as other marginalized groups always get mesmerized/illusion by the political parties, as they highly talk about the discrimination, exclusion, social injustices, inequality and above all, about equality. But no parties and government have ever kept their words by deeds. This indifference of political parties and governments has this time given birth to regional political forces in the Terai area and one cannot rule out the same will not happen with the INs, too.

4. Program Overview

During the fiscal year 2064/65 NGO-FONIN implemented its program activities with the focussing to enhance social inclusion of the Indigenous Nationalities (Adibasi Janajati people) in the national mainstream which include the objectives as: a) empower Adibasi Janajaties at the local level and b) promote social inclusion of them. As of the anticipated outputs by the programs, focus has been made on strengthening NGO-FONIN and its member organisations in terms of organisational skills, policies, structures, systems, procedures and governance practices, and involving people in empowerment and advocacy activities to promote social inclusion of INs. The empowerment activities have been launched both at national and local level. Specifically strengthening of NGO-FONIN, its member organisations have done at national level. With the aim of enhancing social inclusion at local level, empowerment and advocacy activities is being launched through member organisations, district networks. NGO-FONIN has been implementing its program activities with the support of different supporters. “Janajati empowerment and inclusion project (JEIP)” has been implemented with the support of Danida Human Rights and Good Governance Advisory Unit (DanidaHUGOU) from 2006. This aims to enhance social inclusion of the Indigenous Nationalities (Adibasi Janajati people) which been implemented in ten districts that include Sankhuwasabha, Ilam, Bhojpur, Khotang, Solukhumbu, Okhaldhunga, Dolakha, Gorkha, Sunsari, Sindhuli and Nawalparasi districts. Similarly, it has been implementing policy advocacy and establishing network alliances activities with the support of Asia Indigenous People Pact (AIPP) Foundation and National Foundation for Development of Indigenous Nationalities (NFDIN). As NGO-FONIN believes that bringing the marginalized groups in the development process is possible only through their direct involvement in the process, accordingly it has been implementing its program activities on direct involvement of respective stakeholders/right holders. Particularly program activities run by member organisation, respective district networks in which NGO-FONIN is playing the role of facilitator to create an appropriate environment and opportunities. While playing this role, it has focussed for collective efforts by maintaining mutual understanding and coordination with member organisations, local organisations having similar objectives. Before implementing the program, it has given attention towards capacity enhancement including situation assessment of the members, and the target groups, so that they could involve in their development activities. As NGO-FONIN has adopted the strategy to work collectively as well as it believes that bringing the marginalized groups in the development process is possible only through their direct involvement in the process, accordingly has been applied its strategy. It has been implementing its program activities on direct involvement of respective stakeholders/right holders. Particularly program activities run by member organisation, respective district networks in which NGO-FONIN is playing the role of facilitator to create an appropriate environment and opportunities. While playing this role, it has emphasised collective efforts by maintaining mutual understanding and coordination with member organisations, local organisations having similar objectives. Before implementing the program, it has given attention towards capacity enhancement including situation assessment of the members, and the target groups, so that they could involve in their development activities. Main focus of program activities is to strengthen institutional systems of: NGO-FONIN, its member organizations and district networks and Right-based empowerment and advocacy activities where launched. The year has become as historical year for Nepal. As a major mandate of 2nd popular people movement, 2006, the Constituent Assembly (CA) election has been concluded, which is the first time in the history of Nepal. As CA polls were taking place, major focus was made on people awareness and lobby, advocacy activities to ensure Adibasi Janajaties’ representation in CA. Together with the people awareness and CA campaigns, various meetings, workshops, trainings were organized under the organization development and capacity enhancement programs. Lobby, advocacy campaigns were organized on various issues (constituent assembly and Adibasi Janajaties’ representation, identification, access to resources, implementation of ILO convention 169, language/cultural issues). On the basis of organizational assessment and issue identification, an implementation scheme was drawn and implemented accordingly.

4.1. Organization Development Activities:

The activities carried out under organisational development and human resource development during the fiscal year 2064/65 can be classified as 1) organisational system development and 2) capacity enhancement programs, 3) Program review, orientation and sharing on different issues. During the period, the following major activities were carried out under organizational development:

4.1.1. Organisation and system development

a) Regular meeting activities:

With the objective of maintaining organisational system and proper management of program activities, NGO-FONIN has been organizing regular meeting, sharing/interaction programs. Under the meeting board meeting were held on a monthly basis as regular meeting. In addition, there were held different meetings as and when necessary. Staff meeting was held every week. Past program review and new decisions as well as action plan was made from the meeting. Similarly, sharing, and program review meetings were done. Program review, new plan development and other management aspects were discussed and decided in the meetings. These sharing, meetings have supported developing knowledge, skills and implementation of program activities properly as well as professional growth of the NGO-FONIN and member organizations.

b). General assembly:

As mandatory by constitution, NGO-FONIN general assembly was held in Falgun 2064. In the presence of representatives of member organisations past annual program progress reports and new plan for coming fiscal year were presented. With incorporating comments/feedbacks the plan and reports were endorsed by the assembly. Similarly, different policy papers were discussed and endorsed by the assembly.

c) Renewal of Federation:

According to government administration rule and Non-government organization act, NGO-FONIN was renewed to Kathmandu administration office. Before to this, it has performed necessary administrative process as: financial audit, tax clearance, annual progress reports and submitted to concerns (DDC, Tax office, and District administration).

d) Physical facility:

NGO-FONIN has been continuously making effort to well equip its office with daily needs equipments. Though it has well equipped with equipments of computers, printer, scanner, fax machine, OHP, LCD projector have been arranged for the office. These facilities have been very much useful to produce documents in time. Similarly one set of, a have also been arranged. Telephone and internet facilities are arranged.

e) Good governance workshop:

With the aim to enhance knowledge and skills and develop good governance policy of NGO-FONIN member organisations three workshops were held with 3 member organizations: Sudhar Nepal, Bahing Mulukhim, and COSFONAD. Members from respective organizations (24, 21, 18 members respectively) were involved in the workshops. After the workshop, the member organizations have developed good governance policy in their respective organizations and brought into practice. by the workshop, and practicing of the policy, members have felt clarity and while taking decision or implementing any program activities, they are making attention towards good governance policy. Members are also raising questions over the implemented activities and decisions whether they are within good governance or not.

f). Strategic Plan Review:

Strategic plan of NGO-FONIN, which was for 5 years (2006-2010), has been reviewed. The review has been made keeping in view the present situation and based on NGO-FONIN's learning/experiences. In the process, a three-day workshop (6-8, March) was organised in which representatives of member organisations of NGO-FONIN took part. A total of 46 participants were present in the workshop. New strategic plan will be for 5 years starting from 2009 to 2013 (2065 to 2070 BS). The Strategic plan has given clear picture for the future program direction for five years. The annual plan will be developed on the basis of the strategic plan. By the reviewing of the earlier plan and developing new one has supported on making clarity about the plan and enhanced experience in members, staff of NGO-FONIN.

The second and third phase classes were held in September (4-7), 2007 and in March (25-28), 2008.

2009-06-06T05:54:00.000-07:00

4.1.2. Capacity enhancement activities:

Human resource development activities are another important part of organisational development. With-out human resources, smooth organisational development activities cannot be run. Accordingly, JEIP has given emphasis to develop human resources through enhancing knowledge, skills, attitude of staff, members of NGO-FONIN, and member organisations. During the period, various training, orientations were organised on various areas. Specifically, trainings were organised on leadership development, proposal writing, and human rights. The training activities are described as below:
a). Leadership Development Training:

A phase-wise training on Leadership Development started in March 2007 and concluded in March 2008. This was a three-phase training. The first phase training was held in March (22-26), 2007 with five day classes and a project work by each participant. The second and third phase classes were held in September (4-7), 2007 and in March (25-28), 2008. This training was conducted by the trainer of ODC. A total of 21 participants from NGO-FONIN, member organisations and staff took part in the training. The objective of the training was to support in human resource development, which could help in strengthening NGO-FONIN and its member organisations. After the training, the participants have expressed that, they have got confident on the subject as they have gained knowledge and skills from the training. They have also shared the learning of training with others after completion of the training. Some of the trainees conducted similar training for district networks

b). Proposal Writing Training:

As there was strong demand from member organisations and district networks, three trainings on proposal writing were organized in Khotang, Ilam and Bhojpur districts. The purpose of the training was to enhance proposal writing skills in the participants. A total of 70 participants were involved in the training. By the training, participants were encouraged to write proposal and some of them (participants) have been using the skills by developing proposals. Similarly, past trainees have developed and submitted project proposal to different agencies.

c). Follow up of financial management training:

With the aim to follow up of financial management training and internalisation financial policy of NGO-FONIN, a one day workshop was held, in which a total of --- participants from staff, board members and member organisations took part. The workshop has supported to be clear on financial policy as well as to have refreshment on the past workshop/training. After the workshop, the participants have maintained the account system adopting financial rules and regulations in their respective organisations.

4.1.3. Program review, sharing, orientations:

a). Program Review meeting:

During the period, different two review meetings on programs reviews were held. A one day program review meeting was organised on 23 April 2008 and another was held in November. A thorough review was made on the programs. Specifically, review was made on JEIP objective, implemented activities, achievements, problem faced and learning from the implementation. NGO-FONIN board members, staff, representatives of member organisations were present in the review program.

During the review it was realised that some lapses were occurred in the implementation of the planned activities orientation on the procedures for implementation was found not to have properly understood or shared among colleagues by some member organisations. Reports from field were delayed causing delay in the advance clearances. The review meet strictly discussed with all MOs in order not to have such lapses to be repeated in the future.

b). Sharing and interaction program:

During the period, various sharing and interaction program activities were held. Specifically, sharing and interactions were held on 1) Research report on Indigenous health knowledge and use practice of herbal plants, 2) Melamchi project and its impact on INs life, 3) Climate change, 4) Appreciative enquiry, 5) Arun-III, 6) Human Rights training to development mainstreaming. The objective of the sharing and interactions were to make aware Adibasi janajaties on respective issues.

4.2. National level advocacy Programs:

Under the national level advocacy, various activities were carried out focussing on Adibasi Janajatis’ rights movement. Under the rights movement, indigenous people empowerment and policy influencing activities were launched. One issue identification meeting was organised, and such issues as CA and Adibasi Janajaties’ representation, Arun-III mega hydropower project and Adibasi janajaties’ rights, enlistment of those Adibasi Janajaties who were not enlisted under NFDIN act 2058, resource management for NGO-FONIN member organisations, implementation of ILO convention 169 and UNDRIP implementation were identified.
4.2.1. Advocacy campaign on the issue of Adibasi janajaties enlistment under NFDIN act:

Karmarong community staging sit-in program demanding enlistmentAs more than 43 ethnic groups, who have their own language, culture, tradition and history with their own traditional lands, are not enlisted under National Foundation for Development of Indigenous Nationalities (NFDIN) act 2002, they are deprived of INs' rights including taking part in development process as Adibasi Janajaties. These groups are fighting for their rights since the last five years continuously. They were also deprived from taking part in constituent assembly elections held in April 2008. Even the 20 point-agreement between the Government and NEFIN, which was made on 7th August 2007, excluded the groups favouring the representation of only 59 groups enlisted under NFDIN Act 2002, considering the 43 groups as eligible to take part in the Constituent Assembly (CA) by the political parties while selecting candidates. These groups were disregarded by the agreement. The disregarded groups had appealed to the government and the respective political parties demanding their representation in the Constituent Assembly, but no response was given by the responsible parties (Government unit and Political Parties). Therefore, the groups organized various agitation programs to protest such act of exclusion of the genuine groups from taking part in the Constituent Assembly.

In connection with the recognition, the groups staged a Dharna (sit-in) in front of BICC, where NFDIN was organizing its council meeting on 17 and 18 January 2008. The objective of the sit-in program was to pressurize the NFDIN council for putting up the agenda of enlistment in the meeting and taking step for further process. More than 17 groups of people from different districts took part in the program. As out come of the pressure, the council meeting decided to form a task force to assess the enlistment process.

4.2.2. Lobby/advocacy activities on CA and Adibasi Janajaties’ participation:

A struggle team was formed with the involvement of the unlisted groups under NFDIN Act. On the leadership of the team, various activities were held. With the demand for ensuring representation of all language, cultural ethnic groups in CA, delegation with appeal visited all concerned ministries, officials and political parties. The appeal also included various Indigenous Nationalities’ issues to be addressed by the government together with CA representation. Similarly, various meeting, interactions were held with Adibasi Janajati leaders, organisations on the issue.

4.2.3. Signature campaign and an appeal to 595 CA Members

With the demand of Adibasi Janajaties issues to be addressed by the new constitution, appeal was made to 595 CA members individually with 5 lakh signatures. On the occasion of world Indigenous Peoples day, a 7 days long signature campaigns were organized in Katmandu valley and different districts. Signatures were collected in 2,500 meter long white cloth in Kathmandu valley and in registers in the district. With organising a gathering, the bundle of signatures and appeal to 595 CA members were handed over through the chairman of CA Mr. Subash Chandra Nembang at parliament office, Singadarbar. NGO-FONIN member organisations, Adibasi Janajati activists, NIWF, NNIW, NGO-FONIN were involved in the handing over function. While handing over the bundle of signatures, an appeal with the demand that AJ’s issues be addressed in the constitution was presented. Chairman of CA Mr. Subash Chandra Nembang assured to take the appeal to each of the CA members and expressed his commitment to address Adibasi Janajati, women, and other marginalised people’s issues while writing the new constitution in his remarks. He also expressed that they need such kind of suggestions, pressures which draw their attention and of the CA members. Before handing over the appeal, a press conference was organized with the objective to inform public of the objective of the appeal and the signature campaign. This campaign has supported in enhancing advocacy experience of NGO-FONIN members, staff and relation has been made with CA chairperson/members as well as supported on advocacy of NGO-FONIN.

4.2.4. Interaction on ILO Convention 169 and UNDRIP:

In a Joint collaboration of NEFIN, NIWF, LAHURNIP, NNIW, NCARD, and NGO-FONIN, a discussion was organized on 27th of February at Staff College, Jaulakhel. The objective of the event was to disseminate and dialogue with the government on the implementation of ILO 169 and UNDRIP. A total of 357 participants including government representatives, INs and the representatives of indigenous leaders from Asia (prep meeting participants) were present in the event.

4.2.5. An appeal to NHRC:

NHRC is in the process of preparing a recommendation report on NFDIN act amendment. In the process, it has carried out a review of NFDIN act 2058 and prepared a draft recommendation report. As a matter of fact, the NHRC prepared the draft recommendation without consultation of the Adibasi groups and other concerned authorities, some points and definitions in the recommendation ware found unacceptable. The process adopted by the NHRC itself was against the spirit of the ILO-169 and UNDRIP. NGO-FONIN therefore submitted an appeal jointly with the enlistment movement committee (EMC) and Federation of Indigenous Kirat Association (FIKA) to the NHRC requesting not to make such recommendations without consultation of the respective Adibasi janajaties.

4.2.6. Interaction on Arun-III Project:

The Arun III hydropower project is one of the 'would be' mega projects to be located in Num village of Shakhuwashabha district which is a remote indigenous territory of the eastern region of Nepal and is characterized by a rich biological, cultural, and ethnic diversity, and specific mountain advantages-the scenic beauty, hilly landscape, tranquillity, salubrious climate, and inaccessible wilderness areas. Recently, the Government of Nepal has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with India's state-owned Sutlej Jal Vidyut Nigam (SJVN). Though, while making the agreement both sides did make consultation with the Indigenous peoples (Adibasi janajaties) to be affected of the project site, the MoU ignores and undermines the role of the Indigenous peoples in the operation of the project and their rights to natural resource management, economies and traditional livelihoods that have sustained through the generations. Keeping in view the fact, an interaction workshop was organized with concerned community representatives. Sharing and discussion was held on the pros and cons of the project, consequences, challenges to take place due to the project were discussed. The workshop developed an action plan for exploring solution and ensuring rights of the local people. With the aim to take the advocacy activities in a proper manner, a committee with the respective community representatives was formed. Regular meeting and coordination with all concerns are being done by the committee. It has also submitted appeal to concerned authorities requesting to ensure rights of the local people in line with ILO convention 169, UNDRIP as well as CBD. The committee is also involved in education campaign of the concerned communities.
4.2.7. Preparation for PFII Meeting:

The preparatory meeting of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues at Asia level was held in Katmandu, Nepal from February 25-26, 2008, with the support of Asia Indigenous People's Pact (AIPP) Foundation, the meeting was locally hosted by six different organizations working specifically on indigenous issues: Nepal Federation of Indigenous Nationalities (NEFIN), National Indigenous Women's Federation (NIWF), Lawyers Association for Human Rights of Nepalese Indigenous Peoples (LAHURNIP), N-CARD (National Coalition against Racial Discrimination), National Network of Indigenous women (NNIW) and NGO Federation of Nepalese Indigenous Nationalities (NGO-FONIN). The meeting was held with the aim to prepare for the forthcoming session of the Forum by discussion key issues and concerns of the indigenous peoples of the region as well as to come up with common statements and plans for site events and other activities. In total, 106 participants from different countries of Asia (Nepal, India, Bangladesh, Burma, Cambodia, Vietnam, Taiwan, Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, Japan & Malaysia) participated in the preparatory meeting.

The 2008 preparatory meeting was coordinated by the organizing committee composed of Joan Carling, Dr. Suikha and Rukka Sambolingi and attended by the Vice Chairperson of the National Foundation for Development of Indigenous Nationalities (NFDIN) and member of the PFII from Asia – Vicky Tauli-Corpuz. The committee developed the programme, materials and coordinated the participation of indigenous representatives, who were identified by the national country focal point respecting inclusiveness and consensus.

4.2.8. F.M Radio Program:

Radio is taken as one of the media effective for advocacy. NGO-FONIN has given continuity of radio program called "Aadivasi Gunjan" (i.e. voice of indigenous peoples) from Times F.M. in the Kathmandu Valley, which has been airing from 1st December 2005. Through the program, various information about Adibasi janajaties’ right issues were aired. Specifically, Adivasi Gunjan is broadcasting news, information on indigenous peoples culture, religion, history and their situation and discussions on various issues of Adibasi Janajatis. This has been airing its program once a week on Thursday from 8 to 8:30 am. A total of 46 different programs were aired during the period. Together with the sharing information/news, various Adibasi Janajaties activists, CA members were called for airing their views, comments on the issues of Adibasi Janajaties. These activities have supported in sensitising Adibasi Janajaties and concerns on the issue of Adibasi and Janajaties as well as supported in advocacy of NGO-FONIN and coordination, relation building with different activists, and authorities. This has also supported in enhancing experience of NGO-FONIN.

4.3. District level program:

During the period, different activities were implemented in the 10 districts through 10 member organisations and district networks. It has made efforts towards the members' capacity enhancement and understanding building between partners. Coordination and program management meeting, workshops, program monitoring, review and reflection meetings were held.

With the aim to strengthen and take district level program activities effectively, training, orientation programs were organised for district networks. Specifically, training were conducted on proposal writing, ILO convention 169 and orientation were made on INs rights issues. These trainings, and orientations supported in enhancing knowledge, and skills of the district level networks.

4.3.1. Human rights training:

To enhance knowledge and skills on human rights and INs’ rights human rights training was organised in eight districts (Solukhumbu, Khotang, Bhojpur, Okhaldhunga, Sunsari, Ilam, Nawalparashi, Gorkha). The network members and local INs took part in the training. After the training, the participants have become clear on human and INs rights. They are sharing with other peoples, who are not aware about human and INs rights.

The District networks also organised various advocacy campaigns for increasing Adibasi Janajaties access to resources and decision making process. Specifically, interaction and public hearings were organised in Gorkha, Sunsari, Okhaldhunga, Shakhushabha, Solukhumbu, and Sindhuli districts. In the interaction, Adibasi organisations, political party leaders, intellectuals were present and expressed their views. The political leaders had expressed their commitment to raise the INs issues in the respective parties, forums. Similarly, interactions were held with local institutions, NGOs, INGOs and asked their support on addressing Adibasi Janajaties issues. The NGOs, institutions had shared their program, strategy, views, and commitments were expressed towards support addressing Adibasi Janajaties issues.

4.3.2. Program review meeting/workshops:

During the period, various meetings, workshops were organised to review and develop new plans and strategy. In the process, past implemented programs were reviewed and on the basis of learning, new plan, strategies were developed. During the period, program reviews and new issues identification and plan were done in Ilam, and Nawalparashi districts. District network members, local leaders took part in the review meeting/workshops.

4.4. Coordination, relation, alliance building:

NGO-FONIN also participated in various program activities organised by others during the period. The participation in the programs, has supported in relation building with the respective organisations together with learning/experiences. Specifically, it was involved in the following activities organised by others:

4.4.1. SAMARTHYA Project under ActionAid and NEFIN, had organised a two day Adibasi janajaties movement review and reflection program. In the workshop, a sharing of Samarthya program was also held. The representatives from various organisations participated in the program and were good sharing of different experiences. This program has supported on program coordination, relation building together with some learning, which will be beneficial to NGO-FONIN program

4.4.2. NGO-FONIN chairperson and program advisors took part in a workshop organised by ADB at hotel Shangri-La. The purpose of the workshop was to discuss about INs concerns to be included in ADB policies. This was an opportunity for sharing Adibasi Janajaties issue and exposure of NGO-FONIN.

4.4.3. A three-day, preparatory meeting of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues at Asia level was held in Katmandu, Nepal from February 25-26, 2008, with the support of Asia Indigenous People's Pact (AIPP) Foundation. The meeting was locally hosted by six different organizations working specifically on indigenous issues: Nepal Federation of Indigenous Nationalities (NEFIN), National Indigenous Women's Federation (NIWF), Lawyers Association for Human Rights of Nepalese Indigenous Peoples (LAHURNIP), N-CARD (National Coalition against Racial Discrimination), National Network of Indigenous women (NNIW) and NGO Federation of Nepalese Indigenous Nationalities (NGO-FONIN). The meeting was held with the aim to prepare for the forthcoming session of the Forum by discussing key issues and concerns of the indigenous peoples of the region as well as to come up with common statements and plans for site events and other activities. In the meeting participants were from different countries of Asia (Nepal, India, Bangladesh, Burma, Cambodia, Vietnam, Taiwan, Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, Japan & Malaysia). As NGO-FONIN was involved in the meeting as a local host, it has gained management experience of international level meeting. It has also learnt about UNPFII system, PFII meeting as well as the meeting has supported on strengthening network at international level.

4.4.4. Similarly meeting, workshops organised by various Adibasi Janajati Organisations were participated by NGO-FONIN. A two day workshop on “further movement strategy of Adibasi Janajati” organised by LAHURNIP was also participated by NGO-FONIN chairperson, program advisor, and ED. Sample Constituent Assembly, organised by NCARD was participated by general secretary and ED as an observer. NGO-FONIN members had also participated in interaction programs organised by NIWF, NNIW, Chepang Sangh and different member organisations of NGO-FONIN itself.

4.4.5. General Secretary of NGO-FONIN and program assistant attended two meetings and workshops organised by APACHA. This has supported enhancing knowledge on HIV/AIDS issues and working strategies. It has also supported on exposing NGO-FONIN with others and relation building. Similarly, NGO-FONIN has maintained relation with other organisations including OHCHR exchanging information and participating in different meetings, and workshops. OHCHR is continuously sharing its information with NGO-FONIN. Meeting, and workshops organised by OHCHR, were regularly participated by NGO-FONIN representatives. An interaction program on constitution making process was organised by VSO in which resource person was MP of United Kingdom. NGO-FONIN board members took part in the workshop and gained knowledge on the constitution making process, which has been practiced in other countries. NGO-FONIN had also organised orientation programs on right based approach and disaster management with the technical support of ActionAid Nepal. NGO-FONIN board members, staff and member organisations took part in the orientation program. The orientation has supported to be clear on the respective areas as well as helped to maintain relation with ActionAid.

4.4.6. Information received from various national and international organisations were shared with member organisations, individuals and other organisations related Adibasi Janajaties. Similarly, linkage, coordination and technical support (development proposal, preparing appeal, press release, information/data sharing) were made for needy people, organisations.

4.4.7. Efforts were made towards coordination with NEFIN, NFDIN in terms of dialogue on program coordination, support exchange. A few member organisations got access to NFDIN and NEFIN resources by which, small program activities have been conducted in Rasuwa, Sindhuli, and Dolakha districts. Similarly, NFDIN had supported total amount of Rs. 50,000 for advocacy campaign on CA.

The "NGO-Federation of Nepalese Indigenous Nationalities (NGO-FONIN)" is an umbrella organization of the IPOs and I

2009-06-06T05:33:00.000-07:00

1. Introduction

The "NGO-Federation of Nepalese Indigenous Nationalities (NGO-FONIN)" is an umbrella organization of the IPOs and INs' NGOs, run by the Indigenous Nationalities (INs). Its vision is to create a fair and equitable society through ensuring rights of INs and mainstreaming them into the development process. it aims to achieve its vision by facilitating the marginalized indigenous nationalities in their empowerment process and influencing policies and procedures, to create an environment for their involvement in development process. For this NGO-FONIN make collective efforts together with the like-minded organisations of the indigenous peoples. Accordingly, it has been involved in various program activities from its inception.

This is an annual report of fiscal year 2064/65 (2007/8) which include the activities carried out by NGO-FONIN from Shrawan, 2064 to Ashad, 2065. As per its annual plan it has carried out various program activities related to INs issues during the period. As its strategic approach is to work through partnership, network/alliances, it has applied its organisational values, systems, approaches accordingly. This report highlights the achievements made against plan objectives during the period of 2064/65 along with the learning, recommendations for the future programs. In this report, both the qualitative and quantitative achievements have been presented.

The report has been prepared based on regular program monitoring, consultation with respective right holders, member organisations, and district networks. The comments, feedbacks from respective right holders, member organisations during program implementation are incorporated. To make the report much in line with NGO-FONIN program activities, outputs and findings of interactions during different events are presented as appropriate and attention is given to review and reflections from members, and networks. In the process of preparing this report, NGO-GONIN reviewed the overall program activities with the involvement of its member organisations, board members and staff members.

2. Political, Social, Economic Situation:

The interim Constitution, 2007 was adopted and interim parliament was formed. The CPN Maoists became the part of the parliamentary democratic process when it joined the government on 1 February 2007, giving new hope to the Nepali people. As the mandate of this parliament was to hold election for Constituent Assembly, which was not taking place due to the different political interests of the political parties as well as unfavourable environment. The CA had to be held in May/June 2007, was postponed and was fixed to hold on 22 November 2007. As NCP Maoist put demand to get Nepal declared a republic state before going for the CA election and adoption of full proportionate election system for the CA, the date of the election was put off again (5th August 2007). As the demands of the Maoist were not met, they withdrew representation from the government on 18 September 2007. Again the 7 political parties reached an agreement by fulfilling Maoist's demands, some amendments to the CA election system and increasing the number of constituent assembly members from 497 to 601. On 11, January 2008, the cabinet decided to hold the election for the constituent assembly in a single phase on 10 April. However, there were still many unresolved problems including Madheshi, INs, women issues, because of which there was no certainty of the election to be held on the fixed date. As the CA was a great opportunity for the marginalised and disadvantaged people to decide their fate by making a new constitution. In this context, INs were raising voice to ensure representation of each ethnic group in the constituent assembly on the basis of language/culture, gender, and geography or by enlisting those who have not yet been enlisted. For this, NGO-FONIN took into consideration the changing political scenarios, particularly the Constituent Assembly process in its advocacy activities.

The fiscal year 2064/65 has been observed as the historical year as the constituent assembly elections despite uncertainties took place as the major achievement of the 2nd popular people movement 2062/63. The result of the elections clearly showed that Nepalese people wanted change in the country. The elections have established the CPN Maoist as the largest party securing 220 seats out of the total 575 in the CA election followed by Nepali congress (110 seats) and CPN United Marxist Leninist (103 seats). The Medheshi Janadhikar Forum and Terai-Madesh Loktantrik Party emerged as new forces securing 52 and 20 seats respectively. After the elections the state has been declared democratic republic state removing 240 years autocratic kingship in Nepal. For a long time uncertainty and debates, bargaining among major political parties, the portfolio including chairman of CA, President, vice-president ensued but were at last settled and the first democratic republican interim government of Nepal was formed with coalition of 5 parties under the leadership of CPN Maoist. However, the government organs have become almost defunct and the newly formed government needs some time to come into action. People hardly feel the presence of government in the country and it seems that mobocracy has become the rule. The country has been engulfed with shortage of daily necessities and life has become more difficult than ever before combined with insecurity.

The marginalised groups of people including Indigenous Nationalities raised their voices for ensuring representation in the CA of each caste, ethnic/language/culture proportionately. Particularly, INs were demanding their representation to be made on the basis of recommendation made by the representative organisation of the respective ethnic/language/culture groups. But, this could not happen and many ethnic groups did not have their representation. As the elections were already concluded, there was no alternative but to accept the CA poll results and take step towards making a constitution to favour INs issues. But after the election, INs' movement has not taken momentum. Though there is dire need of continued interaction, lobby/advocacy activities for addressing INs issues, only minor activities have been taking place.

However, the year has become a historical for INs of Nepal. Though the representation of INs could not be ensured on the basis of recommendation by INOs’, as political parties' nominees about 34% of INs CA members came in the CA for the first time in the history of Nepal. Likewise, a total of 33% are women and out of the total women members, about 35 % (70) are INs women. A total of about 6 % are Dalit CA members. The important instrument pertaining to the rights of INs “ILO convention 169” was ratified by Nepal government on 22 August, 2007 (5 Bhadra 2064). Similarly, the UN endorsed the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), which has already been signed by Nepal government and this will be moral obligation for the government to INs rights.

People observed different religious, cultural festivals, function as per their culture and practices in the same way Indigenous peoples also observed their festivals & cultural practices as per their cultures in the year. The government has recognised the Tamu Lochhar as national festival for the first time, of Tamu Gurung community to be observed on 15 Poush each year. Still many cultural festivals belonging to INs are not given recognition. INs also observed 15th world indigenous peoples day (9th August) with various functions, demonstrations and raising voices for their rights.

As the monsoon started on time, the agriculture farming took place on time, farmers were relieved. Monsoon farming production was found satisfactory in the year. The fruit production was also reported to be satisfactory this year. Price of fuel oil increased. Accordingly as the transportation costs were increased the prices of commodities were also increased including, agriculture inputs (production support materials: chemical fertilizer, pesticide). As a result, farmers were not benefited from their agriculture product this year even the monsoon was timely.

3. The Context:

Nepal is a land of diversity in terms of caste, ethnicity, language, culture, and religion as well as geography. The constitution of Nepal (article 3) has accepted that, Nepal is characterized with multi-ethnic, multi-lingual, multi-religious, and multi-culture. Unfortunately, all of these castes, ethnicities, language, and culture have not been given equal space in their development process. Specifically, the Indigenous Nationalities (INs), Dalits, women are marginalized from the mainstream of national development process. The Indigenous peoples (Indigenous Nationalities) are one of Nepal's most disadvantaged groups, which comprised more than 37% of the country’s total population. Despite comprising such a large segment of the population, INs have been systematically marginalized and discriminated by the policies, laws, and activities of the state. As a result, many of them are pushed behind in the political, economic, social, cultural and educational sectors.

Nepal Living standard survey, 2003/04 has shown that absolute poverty to have decreased from 42 to 31 in the last 10 years due to various reasons: opportunity encashment and flow of large amount of remittances into the country. However, during the same period the difference between the rich and poor (gini coefficient has increased from 0.34 to 0.41) is seen to have increased. (Interim Plan, NPC). High incidence of poverty is found among dalits (46%), hill ethnic groups (44%) and Muslim (41%).

According to national census 2001, total literacy rate of Nepal is 53.8%, the male and female literacy rate is 65% and 42.5% respectively. Amongst people above 15 years of age, 34.6% of women are literate where as 62.2% of men are literate. The literacy rate as a whole differs significantly by ethnic/caste groups and sex. (CBS, Nepal, 2001 census). According to interim plan 2008-2010, the literacy rate of INs and non-INs (Bramin/chhetries) is 48.8% and 72.3% respectively. The total rate of school admission in the primary schools is 87.4 percent. Of the total children of school going age, the percentages of girls, Indigenous peoples groups, and disabled are 48, 38, and 1 respectively. The percentage of teachers at primary level is 30.6, and 17.8 of female, and INs respectively. INs women teachers are countless.

Due to the discriminatory cultural practices, women are lagged behind in all spheres of development. According to 2001 data, among the literate people (above 15 years of age) 34.6% women are literate whereas 62.2% men are literate. Another development indicator is life expectancy, which shows women have 60.7 and men have 61.1 years; 5.86% women and 94.14% men represented in the parliament. In the civil service, women have 8.55%, whereas men 91.45%. In the case of property ownership, 10.84% of women have land ownership, whilst 89.16% of men have ownership of land (GEPRB CNGO/Canada Nepal, page-8). This situation has not only caused women to lag behind, but also the national development is seriously affected.

Impact in the life of INs by the political change:

Various political changes were taken place in the history and various policies and programs were adopted. However no changes have made in the life of marginalised people including INs. After the people movement of 1990, since the 8th five year plan INs development mainstreaming policy has been adopted. But the initiatives seem very much nominal in comparison to the issues and the problems. No substantial changes were achieved till the completion of 10th five year plan implementation period. Even after the second popular movement of 2006, no remedial policies and actions has been taken place. The interim plan (2065/66-067/68) has also come as the continuity of the past plans and implemented similar program activities as it was earlier.

However after the second popular people movement, there is some hope as the state has initiated debates on social inclusion and state restructuring as well as abolishing some of the discriminatory provisions of the constitution; like after the people movement of 2006, Nepal has been declared a secular state. The State has also ratified ILO convention 169 on 22 August 2007, which is an important tool for ensuing INs rights. At the same time the UN has also declared UNDRIP. Both of these (ILO Convention 169 and UNDRIP) have to come into practice. As the INs are lagged behind in all spheres of development, and have no access to information, they are not aware about the legal provisions, treaties, conventions etc. They can not derive any benefit from such national and international instruments being signed and endorsed by the state.

The long awaited constitution assembly has now been established in the country with the emergence of new regional political forces and having 212 (about 34%) IPs members elected to the Assembly from different political parties. Similarly, the Indigenous-women have their representation of about 26% out of 33.22% of women representation. Differences among the political parties have persisted hinting at political instability. From the peaceful polls for the constituent assembly and the unprecedented presence of INs members in it, the INs as well as other common people have not been able to feel free from the uncertainty that surrounds them. Accountability of both the parties and the government to the peoples is yet to be seen. The shaky political environment has least indication of a situation in which the weaker sections (specifically the INs) of the society can feel secured. There is doubt at every corner of the society.

The number of INs CAMs present in the CA is inspiring for an INs. The INs have contributed a lot to any of the social/political movements that have taken place in Nepal till date. They have been used for an optimum level by all political parties to achieve their political aspirations. The INs as well as other marginalized groups always get mesmerized/illusion by the political parties, as they highly talk about the discrimination, exclusion, social injustices, inequality and above all, about equality. But no parties and government have ever kept their words by deeds. This indifference of political parties and governments has this time given birth to regional political forces in the Terai area and one cannot rule out the same will not happen with the INs, too.

4. Program Overview

During the fiscal year 2064/65 NGO-FONIN implemented its program activities with the focussing to enhance social inclusion of the Indigenous Nationalities (Adibasi Janajati people) in the national mainstream which include the objectives as: a) empower Adibasi Janajaties at the local level and b) promote social inclusion of them. As of the anticipated outputs by the programs, focus has been made on strengthening NGO-FONIN and its member organisations in terms of organisational skills, policies, structures, systems, procedures and governance practices, and involving people in empowerment and advocacy activities to promote social inclusion of INs. The empowerment activities have been launched both at national and local level. Specifically strengthening of NGO-FONIN, its member organisations have done at national level. With the aim of enhancing social inclusion at local level, empowerment and advocacy activities is being launched through member organisations, district networks.

NGO-FONIN has been implementing its program activities with the support of different supporters. “Janajati empowerment and inclusion project (JEIP)” has been implemented with the support of Danida Human Rights and Good Governance Advisory Unit (DanidaHUGOU) from 2006. This aims to enhance social inclusion of the Indigenous Nationalities (Adibasi Janajati people) which been implemented in ten districts that include Sankhuwasabha, Ilam, Bhojpur, Khotang, Solukhumbu, Okhaldhunga, Dolakha, Gorkha, Sunsari, Sindhuli and Nawalparasi districts. Similarly, it has been implementing policy advocacy and establishing network alliances activities with the support of Asia Indigenous People Pact (AIPP) Foundation and National Foundation for Development of Indigenous Nationalities (NFDIN).

As NGO-FONIN believes that bringing the marginalized groups in the development process is possible only through their direct involvement in the process, accordingly it has been implementing its program activities on direct involvement of respective stakeholders/right holders. Particularly program activities run by member organisation, respective district networks in which NGO-FONIN is playing the role of facilitator to create an appropriate environment and opportunities. While playing this role, it has focussed for collective efforts by maintaining mutual understanding and coordination with member organisations, local organisations having similar objectives. Before implementing the program, it has given attention towards capacity enhancement including situation assessment of the members, and the target groups, so that they could involve in their development activities.

As NGO-FONIN has adopted the strategy to work collectively as well as it believes that bringing the marginalized groups in the development process is possible only through their direct involvement in the process, accordingly has been applied its strategy. It has been implementing its program activities on direct involvement of respective stakeholders/right holders. Particularly program activities run by member organisation, respective district networks in which NGO-FONIN is playing the role of facilitator to create an appropriate environment and opportunities. While playing this role, it has emphasised collective efforts by maintaining mutual understanding and coordination with member organisations, local organisations having similar objectives. Before implementing the program, it has given attention towards capacity enhancement including situation assessment of the members, and the target groups, so that they could involve in their development activities.

Main focus of program activities is to strengthen institutional systems of: NGO-FONIN, its member organizations and district networks and Right-based empowerment and advocacy activities where launched. The year has become as historical year for Nepal. As a major mandate of 2nd popular people movement, 2006, the Constituent Assembly (CA) election has been concluded, which is the first time in the history of Nepal. As CA polls were taking place, major focus was made on people awareness and lobby, advocacy activities to ensure Adibasi Janajaties’ representation in CA. Together with the people awareness and CA campaigns, various meetings, workshops, trainings were organized under the organization development and capacity enhancement programs. Lobby, advocacy campaigns were organized on various issues (constituent assembly and Adibasi Janajaties’ representation, identification, access to resources, implementation of ILO convention 169, language/cultural issues). On the basis of organizational assessment and issue identification, an implementation scheme was drawn and implemented accordingly.

4.1. Organization Development Activities:

The activities carried out under organisational development and human resource development during the fiscal year 2064/65 can be classified as 1) organisational system development and 2) capacity enhancement programs, 3) Program review, orientation and sharing on different issues. During the period, the following major activities were carried out under organizational development:

4.1.1. Organisation and system development

a) Regular meeting activities:

With the objective of maintaining organisational system and proper management of program activities, NGO-FONIN has been organizing regular meeting, sharing/interaction programs. Under the meeting board meeting were held on a monthly basis as regular meeting. In addition, there were held different meetings as and when necessary. Staff meeting was held every week. Past program review and new decisions as well as action plan was made from the meeting. Similarly, sharing, and program review meetings were done. Program review, new plan development and other management aspects were discussed and decided in the meetings. These sharing, meetings have supported developing knowledge, skills and implementation of program activities properly as well as professional growth of the NGO-FONIN and member organizations.

b). General assembly:

As mandatory by constitution, NGO-FONIN general assembly was held in Falgun 2064. In the presence of representatives of member organisations past annual program progress reports and new plan for coming fiscal year were presented. With incorporating comments/feedbacks the plan and reports were endorsed by the assembly. Similarly, different policy papers were discussed and endorsed by the assembly.

c) Renewal of Federation:

According to government administration rule and Non-government organization act, NGO-FONIN was renewed to Kathmandu administration office. Before to this, it has performed necessary administrative process as: financial audit, tax clearance, annual progress reports and submitted to concerns (DDC, Tax office, and District administration).

d) Physical facility:
NGO-FONIN has been continuously making effort to well equip its office with daily needs equipments. Though it has well equipped with equipments of computers, printer, scanner, fax machine, OHP, LCD projector have been arranged for the office. These facilities have been very much useful to produce documents in time. Similarly one set of, a have also been arranged. Telephone and internet facilities are arranged.

e) Good governance workshop:

With the aim to enhance knowledge and skills and develop good governance policy of NGO-FONIN member organisations three workshops were held with 3 member organizations: Sudhar Nepal, Bahing Mulukhim, and COSFONAD. Members from respective organizations (24, 21, 18 members respectively) were involved in the workshops. After the workshop, the member organizations have developed good governance policy in their respective organizations and brought into practice. by the workshop, and practicing of the policy, members have felt clarity and while taking decision or implementing any program activities, they are making attention towards good governance policy. Members are also raising questions over the implemented activities and decisions whether they are within good governance or not.

f). Strategic Plan Review:

Strategic plan of NGO-FONIN, which was for 5 years (2006-2010), has been reviewed. The review has been made keeping in view the present situation and based on NGO-FONIN's learning/experiences. In the process, a three-day workshop (6-8, March) was organised in which representatives of member organisations of NGO-FONIN took part. A total of 46 participants were present in the workshop. New strategic plan will be for 5 years starting from 2009 to 2013 (2065 to 2070 BS). The Strategic plan has given clear picture for the future program direction for five years. The annual plan will be developed on the basis of the strategic plan. By the reviewing of the earlier plan and developing new one has supported on making clarity about the plan and enhanced experience in members, staff of NGO-FONIN.

d). Strategic Plan Development:

With the aim to strengthen member organisations’ organisational planning system, strategic plan development support was provided to 10 member organisations. The organisations organised workshop within their organisation and developed strategic plan for the respective organisations. Before organising workshop and developing strategic plan, three day training was held for the representatives of member organisations. With the exercises in developing strategic plan, it has supported members to become clear on developing strategic plan as well as enhanced their capacity on the subject. Member organisations are exercising for the implementation of the Strategic plan.

4.1.2. Capacity enhancement activities:

Human resource development activities are another important part of organisational development. With-out human resources, smooth organisational development activities cannot be run. Accordingly, JEIP has given emphasis to develop human resources through enhancing knowledge, skills, attitude of staff, members of NGO-FONIN, and member organisations. During the period, various training, orientations were organised on various areas. Specifically, trainings were organised on leadership development, proposal writing, and human rights. The training activities are described as below:
a). Leadership Development Training:

A phase-wise training on Leadership Development started in March 2007 and concluded in March 2008. This was a three-phase training. The first phase training was held in March (22-26), 2007 with five day classes and a project work by each participant. The second and third phase classes were held in September (4-7), 2007 and in March (25-28), 2008. This training was conducted by the trainer of ODC. A total of 21 participants from NGO-FONIN, member organisations and staff took part in the training. The objective of the training was to support in human resource development, which could help in strengthening NGO-FONIN and its member organisations. After the training, the participants have expressed that, they have got confident on the subject as they have gained knowledge and skills from the training. They have also shared the learning of training with others after completion of the training. Some of the trainees conducted similar training for district networks

b). Proposal Writing Training:

As there was strong demand from member organisations and district networks, three trainings on proposal writing were organized in Khotang, Ilam and Bhojpur districts. The purpose of the training was to enhance proposal writing skills in the participants. A total of 70 participants were involved in the training. By the training, participants were encouraged to write proposal and some of them (participants) have been using the skills by developing proposals. Similarly, past trainees have developed and submitted project proposal to different agencies.

c). Follow up of financial management training:

With the aim to follow up of financial management training and internalisation financial policy of NGO-FONIN, a one day workshop was held, in which a total of --- participants from staff, board members and member organisations took part. The workshop has supported to be clear on financial policy as well as to have refreshment on the past workshop/training. After the workshop, the participants have maintained the account system adopting financial rules and regulations in their respective organisations.

This report has been prepared based on regular program monitoring, consultation of NGO-FONIN team, respective membe

2009-06-06T05:10:00.000-07:00

1. INTRODUCTION

This is an annual report of fiscal year 2063/64 (i.e. from Shrawan 2063 to Ashad 2064) of Non-Governmental Organizational - Federation of Nepalese Indigenous Nationalities (NGO-FONIN). During the last fiscal year, NGO-FONIN organized different program activities. Its approach is to work through partnership, network, and alliances, which has been promoted accordingly. This report highlights the achievements made against plan objectives during the period of 2063/64 along with the learning, recommendations for the future programs. In this report, both the qualitative and quantitative achievements have been presented.
This report has been prepared based on regular program monitoring, consultation of NGO-FONIN team, respective member organisations, district networks and time to time interaction with the partner's organisations. To make the report much in line with NGO-FONIN's program activities, outputs and findings of interactions of different events have been placed as appropriately as possible and special attention has been given to review and reflections from members, and communities.

2. SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL SITUATIONS:

Past fiscal year - 2063/64 was a memorable year in the history of Nepal. The year 2063/2064 is marked by Peoples' Movement II. In the past 10 years, the country was suffering from armed conflicts. During the arm and conflicts, parties in the government were not able to handle the problem and the conflicts became more intense. Mr. Sher Bahadur Deuba was appointed Prime Minister and was not able to do parliamentary election. King Gyanendra overthrew him and took all state's power. During his rule, Prime Ministers were changed several times. On Magh 19, 2061, (1 February, 2005), the King appointed two Vice-President of the Cabinet and the Ministers. People at that time were not happy with his rule. It became more went intense when his ministers started to deny the basic human rights such as freedom of speech, freedom of association and freedom of information. This situation pushed political parties to be united and create an alliance with Maoist. Seven Party Alliance (SPA) and Maoist signed 12 point agreement in Delhi on Mangsir 7, 2062 to fight against the king’s rule. After the 12 point agreement, Maoist stopped some of its activities and supported SPA activities. When the SPA wanted to organize mass meeting in Katmandu Valley on Chaitra 24, 2062, the Government announced curfew and shut-down communication channels in order to fail the mass meeting organized by the SPA. This made public wild and started to come down in the streets and defied the curfew. In this way, the Peoples' Movement II was started and this movement was supported by peoples from all walks of life. This included members of Civil Society, women, children, disabled, Adivasi/Janajati (INs), Madheshi, Dalits, farmers, civil servants, academicians, teachers, journalists and many others. After 19 days of struggle, the King was forced to hand over state's power to the people on Baishak 11, 2063. Girija Prasad Koirila was made Prime Minister of democratic Nepal. With this, cease-fire occurred between the government and Maoists and armed conflict stopped. Then Nepal became a politically different country. His Majesty's Government was changed into Nepal's Government and similarly, Royal Nepalese Army was changed into Nepal Army on 4th Jestha by the parliament. However, political and social imbalance is still continued. Civil Society, Adivasi/Janajati and different other groups have not stopped their movement.

Due to the political situation, economic condition of the country was also hampered. Similarly, global economy also affected the nation. For instance price hike in petroleum products affected every household in the county. Cost of transportation, foods and other staple products increased due to the increase in petroleum price. But the price of labour did not increase according to the need, so the life has become hard for poor. Similarly, price of gold also increased. It affected rich as well as poor families. Gold in Nepalese society plays vital role because it has high liquidity over all other materials. Gold is used as an ornament as well as saving. In a society where people do not have a banking habit or doing insurance, investment in gold is like opening a bank account. Price hike in gold prevent people, especially women, from saving.

Indigenous peoples are becoming conscious of their socio-political rights than before in the Panchayat era and coming together, for collective bargaining, into organizations for their rights, the pace seems to be slow, however it is taking a kind of grip. Grass roots level committees (local organisations) are being formed and they are establishing their network. The people’s group formed in the area have started claiming their rights on local resources with local governments and social institutions. The landless people, Kamaiya, raised their voices for land rights at different places within the country.

As people observed different religious, cultures, festivals and functions and practices them in their own way, the Nepalese Indigenous peoples also started to observe their festivals and cultural practices with their respective communities. As Hindu people observed Dashain, Tihar and many other festivals, the Tamang, Gurung, Sherpa Communities observed Loshar festival. Tharu community observed Maghe Sakranti. Tarai community observed Chot Parba, Kiratee community observed Udhauli, Ubhauli and Maghe Sakranti festivals. Muslims observed Ed Bakrat.
As monsoon was started on time, agriculture production was found satisfactory this year. Prices of fuel oil, electricity, chemical fertilizers increased more as compared to farmers' products price, which caused negative effects on their agriculture products even the monsoon was timely.

3. ORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT/HRD:

Though Nepal is a multi-ethnic, multi-lingual, multi cultural nation all of these races/castes and ethnicities are not getting equal opportunities or spaces in their development process. Indigenous Nationalities (INs) are one of the marginalized groups from the mainstream of national development process who are deprived of rights for the last two and half a centuries. INs are lagged behind in all spheres of development. As they were deprived of opportunities from centuries, they lack knowledge, skills, experiences in terms of organisation systems development and management aspects. Keeping in view of the facts, NGO-FONIN has given priority to INs organisational development process. During the period 2063/64, it has conducted various activities under organisational development process. In the year 2063/64 a lot of progresses were made in terms of organizational devolvement and capacity building aspects. Specifically, achievements made under organisational development can be classified as 1) Increase in size of the organisation, 2) human resource 3) physical facility 4) organisational system development and 5) capacity enhancement programs.

1) Incensement size of Organisation:
During the year, number of FONIN affiliated member organizations increased from 13 to 53. NGO-FONIN was established in 2003 with 11 member organisations and formally registered to Nepal government administration in 2004. Though it was conducting various activities related to INs right issues, due to the lack of resources, it was not able to give effective program till 2006. So, the federation was not making progress as expected. When it got access to small resource in 2006, it has taken its program activities effectively. Accordingly number of member organisations is also increasing rapidly. INs are seen keen to be organised have established organisation and affiliated to NGO-FONIN.

2) Human resource:

Due to the constraint of resources, NGO-FONIN was not able to arrange its regular human resources in the past. Most of the program activities were run by its committee members on volunteer basis. From the year 2006 (2063/64), it has managed regular staffs for implementing its program activities. As a result, the program activities have been run smoothly and effectively. Currently, a total of 5 regular staffs are involved in its regular program. There are also part time staffs and volunteers, who have been involved in various activities.

3) Physical facility:

NGO-FONIN has managed well in the field of resource mobilization this year. Office has been arranged with six rooms including one meeting room. All office and meeting rooms are well equipped with necessary furniture and equipments. Four sets of computer with two sets of printer, one scanner have been arranged for the office. These facilities have been very much useful to produce documents in time. Similarly one set of OHP, LCD projector, a fax machine have also been arranged. Telephone and internet facilities are arranged.

4) Organisational system development:

There are different activities under organisational system development as a) regular meeting, monitoring activities and b) Renewal of organisation c) Policy/guide line development.

Regular meeting/monitoring activities:

NGO-FONIN has been organizing various meetings like board meeting monthly basis and staff meeting weekly and various sharing, reviewing of program meetings were organised during the period. Generally, program review, new plan development and other management aspects were discussed and decided in the meeting. These events have supported the professional growth of the NGO-FONIN and its staff, member organizations to be effective in program application and carry out the regular work.

Renewal of organisation:

NGO-FONIN has maintained all legal process by adhering to its legal documents. It has performed all auditing process of fiscal year 2063/64 from external auditor and all kinds of taxes were cleared. In the process of maintaining a scientific account keeping system and procedures, auditor was selected by G.A. to get the account system audited. A separate bank account is opened for JEIP Project with a view to maintaining good governance policy. NGO-FONIN's registration was been renewed timely. An Annual General Meeting (AGM) was held in the year 2063. The General Assembly fulfilled the two board members vacant places through election, which was vacant from 7 months. Both of them were elected from among women members.

Policy/guideline papers development:
With a view to systematizing NGO-FONIN's management system, various policies and guideline papers were prepared in order to describe the policies and procedures that relate to the operation of NGO-FONIN's programme. These are for an easy reference and interpretation of program policies and procedures. The staff/members and other concerned parties have to follow the policies and procedures in the implementation process. The policies and procedures are: 1) Financial Policy Manual, 2) Human Resource Policy 3) Good governance policy 4) Monitoring and Evaluation guideline 5) Advocacy guideline and 6) Long Term Plan. The intention of these policies is to maintain systematic discipline, to have an appropriate and effective control over utilization of resources within the federation and practice of accountability and efficiency. These were prepared by adopting participatory approaches, like organizing meetings with the member organizations and board members, management team and also collecting comments/feedbacks from various quaters. During the preparation of these policies and procedures attention was given towards the NGO-FONIN's objectives/strategies, and country's rules and regulations. Under the organisational development and system development process the following activities were carried out:

Organisational Situation Analysis:

With the aim to analysis the existing situation of NGO-FONIN, a two-day workshop was organised on 28/29 August, 2006. A total to 27 participants from NGO-FONIN board members, staffs and member organisations took part in the workshop. A detail exercise was held on NGO-FONIN’s aim, objective, future strategy, its strength, weakness and required improvement areas. A detail plan has been developed from the workshop and this has been implemented for improving organisational system and development.

Organisational Situation Analysis of member organisations:
Ten member organisations 1) Society for People in Needs, 2) Lohorung Yakkhawa Yuyong 3) Kirat Radu Nachhiring Sakham 4) Pewa Nepal 5) Bahing Kirat Mulukhim 6) Association of Nepal Kirat Kulung Language Culture Development 7) COSFONAD Nepal 8) Association of Kirat Chamling Language Culture Development 9) Sudhar Nepal 10) Chulachuli UNESCO Club were collaborating in the implementation of Janajati Empowerment and Inclusion Project, supported by DanidaHUGOU, organisational situation analysis was held with them as well. After the situation analysis, the member organisations have produced plan for implementation of various activities for further improvement.

Good governance workshop:

To make the NGO-FONIN board members, staff, and member organisations clear on Good governance and role and responsibility to be performed by them, a two day workshop was organised on 19/20 Feb. A total of 27 participants from NGO-FONIN, staff, member organisations took part in the workshop. An action plan for developing a good governance policy was drawn in the workshop. On the basis of the action plan Good Governance Policy for NGO-FONIN has been developed. With the aim to share and collect feedback as well as to internalise/familiarise the policy, a two day workshop was held. A total of 28 participants took part in the workshop.

Financial Policy development workshop:

With the aim to review financial policy of NGO-FONIN, a one day workshop was held on 7th June 2007, in which a total of 17 participants from staff, board members and member organisations took part. On the basis of feed back of the workshop, the financial policy was revised.

Similarly, to support in developing financial policy for member organisations, workshops were organised with them. Guide lines for developing the policy were developed and accordingly 10 member organisations have produced their financial policy papers.

5) Capacity enhancement programs:

Fiscal year 2063/64 can be taken as training year of NGO-FONIN. A lot of trainings on various fields were organised during the year. These trainings has supported to enhance knowledge, and skills of NGO-FONIN members, staffs and member organisations. Many of the trainees are developed as trainers as well. Major trainings conducted during the year are as follows:

Financial management Training:

To enhance knowledge and skills on Finance management, a three-day training was organised (Nov 13-15, 2006). A total of 24 participants from NGO-FONIN, staffs and member organisations took part in the training. After the training, the participants have maintained the account system in their respective organisations. Similarly a follow up workshop of the previous training was held on 25 and 26 May 2007 in which a total of 22 participants were present.

Training on Right based approach and Advocacy:

Training on Rights based approach and Advocacy was organised from 19-23 November, 2006. The purpose of the training was to impart knowledge and skills to the participants on the right based approach and advocacy. A total of 23 participants participated in the training.

INs and Human rights training:

To develop resource person on Indigenous peoples' rights and human rights, a TOT was organised from 4-9 December, 2006. A total of 35 participants took part in the training. The participants were from NGO-FONIN, and its member organisations.

Leadership Development Training:

A phase-wise training (for one year period) on Leadership Development is going on. This training started in March 2007 and ends in January 2008. The training is being held under JEIP, supported by DanidaHUGOU and facilitated by ODC. A total of 21 participants from NGO-FONIN, member organisations and staff are taking part in the training. This will include three phase wise classes, project work and visit. So far two phases of class and one project works have been completed. In the fist phase a five day classes were held in March (22-26), 2007 and a project work by each participant were done. The second phase classes were held in September (4-7), 2007. The plan for the last phase of the training is to be made soon.

There was also short training on leadership development. A training was held in January (21-22), 2007, in which a total of 23 participants took part. The purpose of the training was to develop leadership on INs issues. Specifically, the training was focussed to leadership on INs issues. Similarly, Leadership training for women was organised from 28-31 May 2007. A total of 17 participants took part in the training. The purpose of the training was to enhance leadership capacity in INs women.

Social inclusion training:

With the objective of enhancing knowledge on social inclusion and make equal understanding among the members, a three-day training was organised in February (14-16), 2007. A total of 38 participants were present in the workshop. An extensive sharing and interaction was made on social exclusion, and inclusion, which brought more clarity in participants on the subject.

M and E training:
A two-day Monitoring and evaluation training was organised in June (3-4) 2007, in which a total of 27 participants took part from NGO-FONIN and member organisations. The purpose of the training was to enhance knowledge and skills in the participants, so that they can involve in monitoring process in their respective organisational program.

Orientation on HIV/AIDS:

With an objective to sensitise the members and staff who were not aware about the HIV/AIDS and rights of PLWHA a one day orientation was held on 16 April 2007. The facilitator was also from HIV infected. A total of 12 participants took part in the orientation.

Orientation on Dalits Issue and their movement:

One day sharing and interaction was made on Dalit issue and their rights movement. The objective of the sharing was to aware participants (INs) on the Dalit issues, their rights movement and learn from them, which could be useful in INs right movement. Mr. Tirtha Barma, Director of Dalit NGO-Federation was as resource person for the sharing program. This sharing has brought clearity in participants on the issue as well as supported in relation building between DNF and NGO-FONIN.

Orientation on Gender issue:
A one-day orientation and interaction program was held with NGO-FONIN members, staff, member organisations’ representatives on gender issue. Very hot discussion was taken place between women and men groups in the orientation. It was felt that, INs had less opportunity for sharing, discussion or learning about such issues. By the end of the sharing and discussion, the participants were clearer on the issue.

Sharing and orientation on UNPFII/OHCHR:

A one day sharing meeting was held on United Nation Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII) and Office of High Commission on Human Rights (OHCHR) was held on 9th May 2007. The purpose of the orientation was to exchange the experiences from those who had participated or are going to participated in the permanent forum and different working groups meeting and other people those were not aware about the UNPFII, would be aware about the forum. OHCHR representatives were also present in the sharing meeting who shared about OHCHR and the permanent forum. A total of 24 participants were present in the sharing meeting.

Proposal Writing Training:

As there was strong demand from member organisations, and individuals, a 3-day long proposal writing training was organised. The purpose of the training was to enhance writing skills of proposal in the participants. Training was given based on Logical Framework Approach (LFA) and with other technical aspects. There were 18 participants from various organizations of NGO-FONIN members. By the training, participants were encouraged to write proposal and some of them (participants) have been using the skill by developing proposals. Few proposals developed by some of the trainees are ready to be submitted.

Cooperative training:

With aiming to impart knowledge and encourage participants towards developing cooperative system, a two day training was organised. Most of the participants in the training were from new members, who had joined Sangam Saving and credit cooperative. The training was helpful to make the participants understand how Cooperative could be an instrumental to development. This knowledge of cooperation is hoped to help economic and social development of indigenous organizations as well.

Observation/Exposure visit:

To expose and learn from experience sharing from each other, two exposure visits were made. One program was held within the Kathmandu valley, where Dalit NGO Federation Office was visited by 11 members of NGO-FONIN and member organisations. They learned about the organisational management system and various activities under Dalits rights movement.
Similarly another visit was organised to visit western part of Nepal, where the program of Regional Dalit Network and Kamaya movement programs were visited. In the visit both NGO-FONIN and the host organisation's representatives had exchanged their experiences. NGO-FONIN board member, staff and member organisations' representatives were the visitors. This visit supported in confidence building in the participants about rights movement activities as well as in organisational management.

Others:

Brochure review and publication:

NGO-FONIN has reviewed and published it's brochure. This brochure has brought NGO-FONIN’s introduction very clearly than ever before. It will support in introducing NGO-FONIN to other organisations and individuals. Similarly, member organisations have also developed and published their brochure. Many of the members are now in the early stage of institutional development and still struggling to have their organizations well established. In this process, some of the organizations found it important to make introductory brochures of their organization. So, NGO-FONIN extended its help to 4 member organizations to write and develop their brochures.

Concept Paper/Proposal Submission:

Enough resources or funds are a must in order to run various programs and activities on issues of Aadivasi/Janajati. For this purpose of getting funds, project proposals were submitted to various organizations, such as EUC, IFAD, APFED, Action Aid, ESP, and FHI.

4. Programs:

Together with the organisational development activities, NGO-FONIN implemented various program activities during the fiscal year 2063/64. Specifically the program was focussed on indigenous peoples’ rights movement. Under the rights movement, indigenous people empowerment and policy influencing activities were launched. Organisation development, establishing networks and enhancing their capacity were some of the major program activities under the empowerment at district level and Advocacy campaigns for policy influencing at national level.

Empowerment Activities at NGO-FONIN and Member

organisations level:

Organisational development of NGO-FONIN and its member organisations was one of the major activities. Various activities on organisational development and capacity enhancement activities were organised, (already explained under organisational development). After having empowered, national level advocacy activities and district level activities were carried out.

National level advocacy campaigns:

Before organising advocacy campaigns, NGO-FONIN had carried out issue identification activities and on the basis of issues, it had organised its advocacy campaigns. During the period, NGO-FONIN organised three different workshops on Issue Identification.

The first workshop was held on 18 and 19 October, 2006. A total of 25 participants took part in the workshop and major issues were identified as 1) constituent assembly and establishment of federal democratic republic state, 2) enlistment of INs those who were not enlisted under NFDIN act 2058, 3) issue of access to and control over resources. The second workshop on Issue identification was organised on 27 January, 2007. A total of 46 participants were present in the program. Issues were identified in the same way as in the first workshop. In addition, ILO convention 169, and Madheshi issues came up as serious issues.

An orientation and interaction on Interim constitution was held for NGO-FONIN board members, staff, and member organisations on 5 Jan , 2007. The objective of the orientation was to understand about the Constituent Assembly (CA), so that the advocacy campaign could be taken properly. A total of 27 participants took part in the program. Similarly, an interaction on Role of Indigenous peoples in the CA was held on 29 Jan, 2007. A total of 34 participants took part in the interaction.

On the issues identified, various interaction and advocacy campaigns were organised. On 2 March 2007, an interaction on Federal Republic system and rights of Self determination was organised. The purpose of the interaction was to be clear on the issue and make proper concept through common understanding. A total of 25 participants took part in the interaction.

To have clear understanding about the ILO convention 169 by the NGO-FONIN board members and, its member organisations, a discussion was held on April 6, 2007. A total of 17 participants were present in the program. This had decided to advocate on the issue in a joint collaboration with other like minded organisation, and INs organisations.

Cases to support advocacy campaign on the issue of INs

enlistment under NFDIN act:

Demonstration demanding INs enlistment under NFDIN Act 2058There are more than 29 Kiratee groups and other different groups like Karmarong, Ninwha, Tuchulung, Ghale, etc who have their separate identity with language, culture and history, are not recognised as indigenous nationalities. These groups are continuously fighting for their identity and INs rights. As NGO-FONIN has identified the enlistment issue as one of the major issues, it provided support for the issue. The groups had appealed to different political parties, concern authorities with their evidence and legal documents. NGO-FONIN supported with producing the legal documents and organising advocacy campaigns.

International Indigenous Day Celebration:

On the occasion of International Indigenous Peoples day, 9 August 2006, NGO-FONIN also organized a one day interaction program to observe the Day. Review of the past program/progress and sharing and interactions were also held on indigenous people issues including various Kiratees groups issues (who are not enlisted under the NFDIN Act 2058). Various political parity leaders, intellectuals, journalists, and indigenous peoples took part in the program.

District level program:

Interaction program in Okhaldhunga district under district networkNGO-FONIN has been implementing its program through partnership, network, alliances with its member organizations and sister organisations. At present NGO-FONIN has 53 member organizations and various sister organizations (District, village committees and groups). Program activities are taken through them. NGO-FONIN has maintained a good team spirit with its member organisations. It has made efforts towards the members' capacity enhancement and understanding building between partners. The formal forum for coordination and program management meeting, workshops, program monitoring, & evaluation and several program review and reflection, informal meetings and communication helped to make the partnership spirit live.

NGO-FONIN has been implementing JEIP in 10 districts through 10 member organisations. Under the project major focus has been made on establishing and strengthening of district based INs organisations network and organise advocacy campaigns for increasing of INs access to resources. As per the objective of the project, a total of 10 district networks have been established (one in each district) and various interaction and knowledge, skill sharing activities have been organised to enhance their capacity (district level network list is given in annex). Similarly, various lobby and advocacy campaigns are being organised by the networks. Specifically interactions, lobby, appeal to the respective authorities are being made in districts. The networks are also being involved on people awareness and their organisation process at village level.

Research:

Indigenous Peoples' Human Rights Report in Nepal: With the support of Asia Indigenous Peoples' Pact (AIPP) Foundation based in Thailand, NGO-FONIN conducted a research study on "Indigenous Peoples' Human Rights Situation in Nepal”. This study was started on 20 June 2006. Data and information were collected from primary as well as secondary sources. This report shows that the INs human rights have become a neglected area of concern for the government in Nepal. The report corroborates it with some genuine case studies of INs being threatened during in the time of conflict as they were charged as rebellious group of the Nepalese social system.

F.M Radio Program:

Radio is taken as one of the media resource effective for advocacy. So NGO-FONIN started radio program called "Aadivasi Gunjan" (i.e. voice of indigenous peoples) from Times F.M. in Kathmandu Valley. This radio program started from 1st December 2005, and running continuously, which airs its program once a week from 8 to 8:30 in the morning. Through the program, various information about INs right issues were aired. Specifically, Adivasi Gunjan is broadcasting news, information on indigenous peoples culture, religion, history and their situation and discussions on various issues of indigenous peoples. It is gaining experiences and popularity day by day.
To start the radio program, two individuals were selected from member organizations of NGO-FONIN, who were then sent to a training organised by the time FM management. The training equipped them with basic knowledge and skills on how to run a radio program.

Program review meeting/workshops:

During the period, various meetings, workshops were organised to review and develop new plans and strategy of the programs. In the process, past implemented programs were reviewed and on the basis of learning, new strategies were developed. These types of reviews were done on 4 January, 2007 for reviewing of program implemented during the period of August 2006 to December 2006. A total of 25 participants from NGO-FONIN board, member organisations, staffs were present in the review meeting. Similarly, field program sharing meeting was held on 6 February 2007 in which a total of 25 participants were present. A visit sharing was held on 15 April, 2007, after the exposure visit by NGO-FONIN board members, representatives of member organisations and staffs. A total of 24 participants were present in the sharing. The representatives of member organisations had also shared the experiences/learning in their respective organisations.

Sharing and interaction program on natural resources:
One day interaction program on natural resources and INs rights and Community conserved areas: t0 review status and needs was organised on 7th May, 2007. A total of 18 participants took part in the program. A sharing of a workshop learning, which was held in Guhati, Assam and a working paper on the issue was also shared and discussed in the interaction program.

Publication:
Adibasi Gunjan bulletin was published, which included the program activities conducted by NGO-FONIN, various information related to INs and their issues and constituent assembly. Individual's articles, views, learning experiences were also included. The publication has supported in introducing NGO-FONIN to others and also disseminate the information about INs issues.

Coordination, relation, alliance building:

Participation in different advocacy campaigns organised by other organisations:
NGO-FONIN also participated in the Jana-Andolan II (Peoples' Movement II). It produced press-release relating to solidarity on peoples’ movement. It also participated in various procession, protest rallies organised by NEFIN and other organizations, political parties and civil society.
NGO-FONIN also took part in last year NGOs movement against government because government produced a Code of Conduct for NGOs without seeking their prior and informed consent. It produced one press-release criticizing government action and asking to dismiss the Code of Conduct for NGOs.
Similarly, support and solidarity was express to Kamaya, and Dalits rights movement. While Kamayas were organising campaign/demonstration at Tinkune, Kathmandu with the aim of pressurising the government, demanding their proper rehabilitation, NGO-FONIN had shown solidarity and moral support. Similarly, Dalits were beaten in western Nepal and a rape case against Dalit women had taken place in terai, NGO-FONIN had given press statement against the violation of rights and inhumane activities against the Dalit people.

Participation in International Forum:
Our program adviser, Mr. Dammar Lohorung, who is also the President of Lohorung Yakkhaba Yuyong, a member organization of NGO-FONIN, participated in UN High Commission on Human Rights meeting in order to brief about NGO-FONIN and issues of indigenous peoples in Nepal. Similarly, various interactions, consultation meetings, workshops organised by UNDP, OHCHR, Action Aid, VSO, and other organisations were participated by NGO-FONIN representatives.

Affiliation with APACHA:
With the objective of combating HIV/AIDS collectively in Asia Region, a network “Asia People Alliance for Combating HIV/AIDS (APACHA)” has been established. NGO-FONIN has become an executive committee member of the alliance. This alliance has been organising various activities related to HIV/AIDS issue. In May 2007, it organised an advocacy campaign with the aim of influencing SARC People forum, which was held in Nepal. In the program, NGO-FONIN had made active participation. At the same time, an interaction on Multiple discrimination against Dalit, Ethnicity and AIDS program, was organised on 21 May 2007, in NGO-FONIN office. A total of 30 participants were present in the interaction program.

Efforts for affiliation to AIPP
Asia Indigenous Peoples Pact (AIPP) is an alliance of Indigenous People Organisations in Asia. It was established to fight collectively on INs rights issue and accordingly has been working on the issue. NGO-FONIN is making effort to receive membership from AIPP. An application has been submitted for membership. Before this, NGO-FONIN has conducted a study on INs human rights situation in Nepal and organised a six day training on INs and human rights TOT with the support of AIPP.

5. Problem faced during the period:

Resource Constraint:
Resource constraint is one of the major obstacles for NGO-FONIN and its member organizations. NGO-FONIN and its member-organizations do not have enough financial and human resources. Most of the member organizations lack capable personnel within the organization which means they are not capable in raising funds, doing studies and their regular work in an effective way.

Not adequate follow up of implemented program activities:
Due to lack of human resources, the program activities implemented could not have proper follow up. Specifically, training, workshops were not followed up properly. The members, district networks did not adequate support.

Political Conflict/Agitations:
Though the Seven Party Alliance is in power, people are not fully secure to enjoy peace. Due to the high expectations from the democratic government various unions and interest groups are fighting for their rights. These groups started blockade of roads, transportation and services as the tool for their advocacy. So, people could not do their regular work in time. On the other hand, there are other new groups coming up with their demand with the State and organizing protest against the present interim democratic government. This also posed a threat to a peaceful regular work of NGO-FONIN.

Not able to cash the opportunities:
There are ample opportunity to work on INs issues and a lot of resources are available. But the resources could not be received due to lack of human resources.

Lacked support to new member organisations:
Many of the member organisations are affiliated with NGO-FONIN are new. But, NGO-FONIN is not able to arrange any kind of program with them. Even a meeting or interactions has not been possible with them.

Lacking to connect INs in western part of the country:
Most of the member organisations are from eastern part of Nepal, and a very few are from the western part. NGO-FONIN was not able to reach western part during the period 2063/64.

Establishment of organisation as institution
As INs had fewer opportunities to work with organisations/institutions specifically in management positions, they lack leadership and management experiences. The INs led organisations are coming up in a slow pace, which take time in getting experiences. Accordingly, it is challenge to develop system in the organisations as an institution.

Not equal understanding of issues:
Though the INs are raising voices of rights, all levels of INs are not aware about the issues and there is not equal understanding on the strategic approach of solution. For an example, all INs are pronouncing that, each groups of INs should be represented in CA process. But, the process of involvement of INs in CA process is not clear. As the INs are influenced by political parties, they are depending on the respective political parties, from which the groups will be represented. Other INs groups who are advocating as INs representation should be through respective groups' decision, are not assured that INs representation will be ensured by political parties. Even there is deferring the INs aspiration and provision of interim constitution.

Delay on implementing JEIP program:
As most of the member organisations were new, who did not have working experiences in implementing project, the program implementation was not in time and systematic. There was also lacking in orientation, guidance in the process.

6. Recommendation/Future Plan:
1. Effort to be made on access to resources: Effort to be made on access to resources, so that programs could be launched effectively. Linkage, coordination with support agencies to be made. Priority should be given towards human resource development for resource generation. Specifically, efforts to be made on developing manpower on proposal writing, exploring other resource generation sources.
2. Member organisation expansion to western part: As most of the member organisations are from eastern part of the country and a very few from western part, efforts to be made on member organisation expansion to western part.
3. Extension of district network and strengthening them: During the fiscal year 2063/64, a total of 11 district networks have been established and being involved in various program activities. In the days to come efforts should be make to extend the networks in other districts and strengthening them.
4. Equip NGO-FONIN: NGO-FONIN needs to equip with human resource, physical facilities (office equipments), so that proper support/services could be provided to members and others.
5. Support members: As majority of member organisations are newly established, which lack experiences, they need support for enhancing their capacity, access to resources.
6. Follow up of existing program: The program activities which have been implemented in the past, needs to be followed up and support to be made as per their need. Many people have got opportunity of training, exposures during the fiscal year of 2063/64. Trained peoples (trainees) from past program should be mobilised. This will support in developing and sharpening human resources, which will support in enhancing INs organisations.
7. INs women participation: As there is less members and member organisations from INs women, priority to be given towards including women members.
8. Make equal understanding of issues: Though the INs are raising voices of rights, all levels of INs are not aware about the issues and there is not equal understanding on the strategic approach of solution. So, efforts need to make through various interaction/meetings towards making equal understanding.
9. Strengthening of document/information sharing: Though NGO FONIN is conducting various program activities, it lacks documents of the learning. Limited documents are also not able to share in INs circle. So, efforts to be made to producing learning documents and sharing to others.

Executive summary

2009-06-06T04:29:00.000-07:00

This annual progress report of NGO-FONIN intends to cover the past one year program activities of the year 2006/7 (2063/64). During the period, different program activates were undertaken through collaboration with its member organisations. This report has been prepared based on regular program monitoring, and consultations with NGO-FONIN team, member organizations, district networks. To make the report much in line with NGO-FONIN's program activities, outputs and findings of interactions have been placed as appropriately as possible and special attention given to reflections from members, district networks and communities, as well. The report has been presented in five parts that include executive summary of the whole program achievements.

The Second Popular peoples' movement brought remarkable changes in the country in 2063. The movement has re-instated democracy by displacing the active monarch and Nepalese peoples have become sovereign. It has also succeeded in mainstreaming the rebellions (Maoist) group into national political mainstream.

The daily unexpected Mass Meetings, Banda programs organized by political parties and interest groups are making the daily lives of general mass more complicated. Due to the political situation, economic condition of the country was also hampered. Similarly, global economy also affected the nation.

Indigenous peoples are becoming conscious of their socio-political rights and coming into organizations to raise collective voice of rights. The landless people, Kamaiya, raised their voices for land rights. As Hindu religions observed different religious, cultures, festivals and functions and practices, the Nepalese Indigenous peoples also started to observe their festivals and cultural practices.

As monsoon was started on time, agriculture production is found satisfactory this year. Prices of fuel oil, electricity, chemical fertilizers increased more as compared to farmers' products price, which caused negative effects on their agriculture products even the monsoon was timely.

Programs and achievements:
The year of 2063/64 was a very progressive year of NGO-FONIN. It succeeded to get access to resource first time. Agreement between DanidaHUGOU and NGO-FONIN has made possible for conducting Janajati Empowerment and Inclusion Project (JEIP), a 21 month project. The objective of the program is to mainstreaming of IPs in national development process. The program include 1) support in organisational development process of NGO-FONIN, its member organisations, 2) launch advocacy activities and 3) support in strengthening good governance.

Organisational Development:
NGO-FONIN conducted various activities under organisational development and capacity building aspects. The achievements made under organisational development can be classified as 1) Increase in size of the organisation, 2) human resource 3) physical facility 4) organisational system development and 5) capacity enhancement programs.

Number of FONIN affiliated member organizations increased from 13 to 53. IPs are seen keen to be organised have established organisation and affiliated to NGO-FONIN. Office has been equipped with necessary furniture and equipments including communication facilities. From the year 2006 it has managed five regular staff for implementing its program activities. There are also part time staff and volunteers.

Various activities were carried out under organisational system development as a) regular meeting, monitoring activities and b) Renewal of organisation c) Policy/guide line like good governance, financial policy; human resource policy, etc were developed. Similarly various workshops related to organisation development were organised. Publications like Adibasi Gunjan (bulletin), NGO-FONIN broachers were also published.

Fiscal year 2063/64 can be taken as training year of NGO-FONIN. A lot of trainings on various fields were organised which has supported to enhance knowledge, and skills of NGO-FONIN members, staffs and member organisations. Financial management, rights based approach and advocacy, IPs' rights and human rights, leadership development, social inclusion, monitoring and evaluation, proposal writing, cooperative etc were major trainings conducted during the year. These events have supported the professional growth of the NGO-FONIN and its member organizations to be effective in program application and carry out the regular work. Likewise with aiming to learn from other organisations/programs, two exposure visits were organised for its members and staff, as well. Orientation on HIV/AIDS, Gender, Dalit issues and various sharing, were also organised.

Programs:
NGO-FONIN implemented various program activities during the fiscal year 2063/64. The program was focussed on indigenous peoples’ rights movement as indigenous people empowerment and policy influencing activities. Organisation development, establishing networks and enhancing their capacity were some of the major program activities under the empowerment and various interaction, workshops, demonstrations/ Advocacy campaigns were under policy influencing. Various awareness activities with IPs were organised at district level. By these awareness activities, the IPs are becoming aware about the cause of marginalization and their rights. Because of these awareness campaigns, district and village level IPs committees were formed and involved in their development activities.

Before organising advocacy campaigns, NGO-FONIN had carried out issue identification activities and on the basis of issues, it had organised its advocacy campaigns. During the period, NGO-FONIN organised three different workshops on Issue Identification, which identified as 1) constituent assembly and establishment of federal democratic republic state, 2) enlistment of IPs those who were not enlisted under NFDIN act 2058, 3) issue of access to and control over resources, 4) ILO convention 169 as major issues.

Various orientation and interaction on the issues were held with NGO-FONIN board members, staff, and member organisations before to held advocacy campaigns. Similarly, on the issues identified, various lobbies, interactions, demonstration activities were carried out with aiming to influencing respective authorities. Various interaction programs were organized on biodiversity and IPs right issues. Various IPs organizations, people, respective authorities, NGOs took part in the program. NGO-FONIN conducting "Aadivasi Gunjan" (i.e. voice of indigenous peoples) from Times F.M. from which various information about IPs right issues were aired. It is broadcasting news, information on indigenous peoples culture, religion, history and their situation and discussions on various issues of indigenous peoples. On the occasion of International Indigenous Peoples day, 9 August 2006, NGO-FONIN also organized a one day interaction program to observe the Day.

NGO-FONIN has been implementing its program through partnership, network, alliances with its member organizations. It has given attention towards people organisation and their organisational development. Organisations were established at local and district level and efforts were made on establishing and enhancing of networks and alliance. As Janajati Empowerment and Inclusion Project (JEIP) has been implementing in 10 districts through 10 member organisations under the project major focus has been made on establishing and strengthening of district based IPs organisations network and organise advocacy campaigns for increasing of IPs access to resources. A total of 10 district networks have been established and various interaction and knowledge, skill sharing activities have been organised to enhance their capacity. Similarly, various lobby and advocacy campaigns are being organised by the networks.

NGO-FONIN carried out a research on Indigenous Peoples' Human Rights Report in Nepal With the support of Asia Indigenous Peoples' Pact (AIPP) Foundation. This report shows that the IPs human rights have become a neglected area of concern for the government in Nepal.

Various meetings, workshops were organised to review and develop new plans and strategy of the programs. In the process, past implemented programs were reviewed and on the basis of learning, new strategies were developed. Similarly learning sharing programs were also organise with the aim to impart knowledge, experiences. Internal and external visitors and observers from different organizations and places visited NGO-FONIN and its member organisations' program, which provided an opportunity of sharing ideas, learning experiences between visitors and NGO-FONIN.
With the aim to share experience and information Adibasi Gunjan a bulletin was published, which included the program activities conducted by NGO-FONIN, various information related to IPs and their issues.

For maintaining relation and making collective efforts towards achieving common goals, NGO-FONIN has made effort towards coordination, linkage, networking with individuals, organizations, institutions at local and national levels. During the period, NGO-FONIN participated various forums and interaction program activities organised by different national and international organisations like UN High Commission on Human Rights, UNDP, ActionAid, VSO, NEFIN, and other organisations. These has supported in relation building with the respective organisations/agencies.

NGO-FONIN has affiliated to “Asia People Alliance for Combating HIV/AIDS (APACHA)” and involved various activities conducted by the alliance. It has also making effort to receive membership from AIPP. An application has been submitted for membership.

NGO-FONIN felt various problems and threats as 1) resource constraint (financial and professional human resources) is one of the major obstacles in reaching the program to large area, 2) the program activities implemented could not have proper follow up; 3) unstable political situation was also another obstacle during the program implementation. As various unions and interest groups are fighting for their rights, they blockade of roads, transportation and services as the tool for their advocacy, 4) not able to cash the opportunities, 5) lacked support to new member organisations 6) lacking to connect IPs in western part of Nepal, 7) establishment of organisations as institution, 8) making equal understanding of issues 9) delay on implementing JEIP program.

NGO-FONIN will make efforts towards people organisation and institution development, for which efforts will be made for arranging and managing resources. It will also make effort to explore partners or support organisations and building networks for achieving its objectives. NGO-FONIN’s program will focus towards capacity building of its member organisations as well as of district based organisations. To influence policy makers and responsible authorities, right advocacy campaigns will be conducted. Specifically attention will be given towards improving the lacking as a) Effort to be made on access to resources, b) Member organisation expansion to western part c) Extension of district network and strengthening them, d) Equip NGO-FONIN with human resource, physical facilities e) Support member organisations to strengthen them f) Follow up of existing program g) IPs women participation, h) Make equal understanding of issues among IPs i) Strengthening of document/information sharing.

This report provides data on the NGO-FONIN Program achievements for the period of Shrawan 2062 to Ashad 2063 (July

2009-06-06T04:10:00.000-07:00

1. INTRODUCTION:

This report provides data on the NGO-FONIN Program achievements for the period of Shrawan 2062 to Ashad 2063 (July 17, 2005 to 16 July 2006). NGO-FONIN organized different program activities within the past one year. The NGO-FONIN's approach is to work through partnership, net work, alliances programs which have been promoted accordingly. This report highlights the achievements made against plan objectives during the period of 2062/63 along with the learning, recommendations for the future programs. In the report, both the qualitative and quantitative achievements have been presented.

This report has been prepared based on regular program monitoring, consulting respective member organisations, time to time interaction with the partner's organisations. To make the report much in line with NGO-FONIN's program activities, outputs and findings of interactions during different events has been placed as appropriate and special attention given to review and reflections from members, and Communities.

2. SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL SITUATIONS:

The 10 years long political conflict between government and the rebel (Maoist) is going on with some stop and go sign for the last several years. The situation is deteriorating day by day instead of improvement in the intensity of conflict. The development activities are almost completely stopped in the rural areas where the rebel claims to have their hold. A little hope is coming in after the recent popular political upheaval in the country. Still people are very much sceptical to the future of conflicting situation and people are making claim from various quarters or walk of life feeling themselves as excluded from the mainstream of development processes and want to re-structure the old regime in a new way so that they are included as Aadibasi/Janajati, Dalit, Women and Disabled, Children so forth and so on.

Indigenous peoples' unity and organizations are coming up at a very slow pace and becoming stronger than the previous days. In many places grass root level committees/organizations have been formed and established their network. The people’s groups formed in the area started claiming their rights (on the provisions and commitments made with them by different stakeholders) with local governments, social institutions and civil societies functioning in the country.

Landless people, Kamaiya raised their voices of land right in different places. landholder people were receiving land in the name of landless people, whereas the real landless people were excluded from getting the land. Similarly, in different places the squatter people demonstrated, organized protest rally against administration and violations were noticed when the local administration decided and implemented the squatter eviction from their settlement in public land. Later on the problem settled through all parties meeting.

People observed different religious, cultural festivals, function as per their culture and practices in the same way Indigenous peoples also observed their festivals & cultural practices as per their cultures in the last year time.

Monsoon was started on timely and heavy rainfall was noted during the monsoon. The farming took place in time as a result, many farmers succeeded to farm in time. So, monsoon farming production is found satisfactory the past year. The fruit production was also reported to be satisfactory this year. Price of fuel oil, electricity increased in the comparisons to farmers' product commodities price, agriculture inputs (production support materials: chemical fertilizer, pesticide) cost was also high. Therefore, farmers were not benefited from their agriculture product this year even the monsoon was timely. This can be ascribed to the India–Nepal border policy because the Indian products are entering Nepal in cheap cost, as result Nepali framers/producers are not getting market benefits.

Maoist insurgency activities affected different parts in different ways and as a whole the nation was impacted negatively in developmental activities. Many insurgencies activities took place like Physical actions, bank looting, bomb explosion, firing. VDC offices and other service centres shut down in different places. Schools, particularly private schools were closed for a long times which created uncertain situation for children's education as well. Mass meeting, demonstration, Banda programs were organized by political parties making the daily life of general mass more complicated.

3. ORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT/HRD:

3.1. Office and equipment:

NGO-FONIN office has been managed well in terms of function and resource mobilization. With maintaining existing assets and properties in well conditions, two sets of computer with one set of scanner, has been arranged. Now NGO-FONIN can carry out its basic work with the computer for its human resource. This computer facility has supported to produce documents in time and also staffs skill enhancement.

During the period, NGO-FONIN financial activities (Income and expenditure) were audited with arranging auditors. The auditors were found satisfied in general and gave feed back for necessary improvements.

3.2. Human Resource:

As an umbrella organization of IPs NGO-FONIN does not implement program activities directly. All program activities are operated through and by its member organisations. However, it has been organizing various routine works like holding meetings, workshops, and training for supporting member organizations. For such arrangements, NGO-FONIN has provision of One Program Coordinator and One Accountant–cum–secretary to manage daily activities in the office.

3.3. Training, Tour, Meeting, and Workshops:

In the past year, NGO-FONIN Committee Members, Member Organizations Members and staff participated in different training and workshops organized at local, national level as opportunities availed. Right-based Approach, Social Mobilization, Report writing, Proposal writing, Cooperative, Management etc were the major training conducted & participated by Organisational members, staff during the period. These training, workshops have supported in the professional growth of the NGO-FONIN as well as its members in program application and run regular work. The detail list of HR events participants list is attached in annex.

Cooperative

With the aim to provide knowledge to members of NGO-FONIN and member organisations, about Cooperative (saving and credit), orientation programs were organised. It is expected that the participants will be able to share the knowledge with other people.

Proposal writing

Keeping in view the present situation of fund raising and program running along the line of perceived goals of respective organizations affiliated to the NGO-FONIN's manpower. It was felt necessary to equip its member organization with some appropriate knowledge on proposal writing in Logical Framework Approach and propose genuine scheme as proposal and raise fund in their respective organisations, a proposal writing training was organized for 3 days in the month of Chaitra, 2062. There were 18 participants from various organizations of NGO-FONIN members. It was 3–day training on LFA format of proposal writing. Some of them (participants) have already submitting their proposal to various donor agencies, too.

3.4. Visitors and Observers:

Internal and external visitors and observers from different organizations and places visited NGO-FONIN and its member organisations' program. Various individuals and organisational members visited NGO-FONIN to share their approaches to development work or sectors live HIV-AIDS and RH Services to community. Such visits provided an opportunity of sharing ideas, learning experiences between visitors and NGO-FONIN.

3.5. Linkage and Coordination:

For the maintaining relation and making collective efforts towards achieving common goals, NGO-FONIN has made effort towards coordination, linkage, networking with individuals, organizations, institutions at local, national level. Good relation has been maintained with its members, Local Authorities, Local Organisations, Line Agencies, INGOs, NGOs. These relations have created good working environment and understanding, supporting each other in program intervention.

3.6. Partnership

NGO-FONIN is implementing its program through partnership, network, alliances with its member organizations, sister organisations. At present NGO-FONIN has 12 member organizations and various sister organizations (District, village committees and groups). Program activities are taken through them. NGO-FONIN has maintained a good team spirit with its member organisations.

NGO-FONIN have made efforts towards the members' capacity enhancement and understanding building between partners. The formal forum for Coordination and program Management meeting, workshops, Program monitoring, & evaluation and several program Review and Reflection, informal meetings and communications help to make the partnership spirit alive.

4. PROGRAMMES:

4.1. Local and District level Organisational Development:

NGO-FONIN has given attention towards people organisation and their organisational development. Accordingly, program focus was made towards people organising and organisational development. Various organisations were established at local and district level during the year. Likewise, efforts were made on establishment and enhancing of networks, alliance.

NGO-FONIN is ready to support and facilitate to its members to build their capacity as per their need. Accordingly NGO-FONIN is organizing the regular learning-sharing meeting, workshops with its partners and proactively shares feedback and comments to partners for their areas for improvements based on the audit observation, filed visit, interaction, planning and budgeting processes and so on. Members are also participating in different training programs, organized at different level.

4.2. Community Awareness and Organisation Program:

Indigenous ethnic community empowerment and upliftment Initiative is one of the innovative programmes by the member organisations considered as one of the issue based and right-based program. NGO-FONIN member organisations were involved in people awareness and organisation through organising various meeting, interaction program activities. By the program, IPs are come into organisation at different level as local, district level. Under this program ethnic communities organizations are come up strongly and raising voices against marginalisation as well claiming their rights.

The Member Organisations organized various awareness activities with IPs is different parts of the country. Meeting, workshops, trainings were organized for IPs awareness and organizations. With aiming to make aware Kulung Communities about IPs and their rights, Association of Nepal Kirat Kulung Language, Culture Development (ANKKLCD) organized meeting, workshops with Kulung Communities at Sunasari, Morang, Jhapa, Shakhuwasabha, Solukhumbu and Kathmandu. Through these awareness campaigns, Six district committees and 18 village level committees has been formed and involved in their development activities. Kirat Radu Natchhiring (KRN) organized various interaction programs with its communities at Kathmandu, in which people were made with IPs and their rights. Lohurung Yakkhawa Yuyoung (LYY) organized awareness program activities at Kathmandu and Sakhuwashabha district. Association of Kirat Chamling Language and Culture Development (AKCLCD) conducted awareness campaign in Khotang District and Kathmandu. Bahing Kirat Mulukhim (BKM) organised interaction about Bahing Community's right issue, impertinent of organisation.

By these awareness activities, the IPs are becoming aware about the cause of marginalization and their rights. They are coming into groups or organization. They have started to study and analysis of the state constitution, legal provisions, policies of state and the history. People are making active participation in different right based interaction programs and transferring the information to the community people.

4.3. Advocacy and Policy Influencing programe:

During the period various advocacy and policy influencing program activities were organized. In the joint organization of NGO-FONIN member organizations, various interaction programs were made about biodiversity and IPs right issues. In the interactions various IPs organizations, people, respective authorities, INGOs took part. Similarly, Kirat Radu Natchhiring, Association of Nepal Kirat Kulung Language Culture Development organized interaction program in the issue. Through these interaction programs, IPs are become aware about biodiversity and their right and the respective authorities, concerns are convinced on the issue. As result, the ministry of forest has prepared draft bill about the biodiversity.

In the coordination of NGO-FONIN, its member organizations were involved in various advocacy campaigns, demonstrations against marginalization and demanding equal rights. Specifically, Indigenous people day, Human right day, Indigenous people festivals were used as campaign demonstrations.

4.4. Economic Empowerment Program:

With the aim to support in economic activities of IPs, who are from poor, helpless, NGO-FONIN has been making effort towards supporting in their economic development activities through linking them to the support agencies, financial institutions. During the period, IPs were linked with NFDIN, National Indigenous Nationalities Women Forum from which, IPs received knowledge, skill development trainings. The trainings have supported in their employment. IPs from poor families were linked with Sangam Cooperative for lone facilities. From the lone, IPs have conducted various economic development activities like, piggery, Chicken farming, small hotels, retailer shop, electronic shop etc. These activities has supported in improving their economic condition.

Cooperative (Saving and credit) Training:

There is one Sangam Cooperative Forum of affiliated organizations which is thought to be an economic wing to run various social programs within the member organizations themselves. There are more than 300 members affiliated to it who are within a low level of economic bracket. Members are running some small schemes like piggary, small shops, small hotels, shoe making, handicraft producing & so on forwarded by themselves.
As an education program of cooperative forum, two orientation training were organized for the members of cooperative.

Two batches of orientation training were organized in the month of Chaitra, 8th and 9th of 2062 B.S. There were 12 participants in the first batch and 16 in the second batch. Participants were oriented to the present theme of cooperative movement along with the historical perspective of the movement. This training help participants to conceptualize the movement and work together to maintain qualitative social life as a group in society. They understood the value of cooperation and the importance of economic wing of a forward moving group. This training is thought to be a regular activity of NGO-FONIN and organizing it regularly.

4.5. Program on HIV/AIDS Issue:

NGO-FONIN has also taken an initiative on HIV/AIDS and Anti-Trafficking programs. As HIV/AIDS is becoming sever problem in the world it has been spread in every nook and corner. IPs are living with poverty, illiteracy and even in remote places. So they do lack information. Due to the poverty as well as many reasons, IP communities are compelled to migrate different places in the search of employment, treatment, education opportunity, etc. By the situation IPs are very vulnerable of HIV/AIDS infection, and this may affect the social, economic condition. Keeping view the fact, NGO-FONIN has given attention towards people awareness on the issue. Awareness programs have been launched through its member organizations, local organizations, groups under partnership.

4.6. Environment and biodiversity:

Various interactions were made on Environment and Biodiversity issues. Specifically, interactions were made on Biodiversity and IPs right issue. People awareness campaigns were organised at different level (Local, district level) and interactions were held with government line agencies, forestry department.

4.7. Program for Children

Extra curricular activities:

With the aim to protect and promote rights of children, NGO-FONIN had organised various activities. Various extra curricular activities like quiche contest, debate, sports, drawing competition, cultural program etc were held in joint venture of NGO-FONIN and its member organisations. This activity has supported in physical, mental development of children as well as organising for their rights.

Education support:

Due to the poverty, many children are deprived of education. With the aim to provide them education opportunity, NGO-FONIN is making effort toward searching supporters, donors. A total of 23 children were supported in their school education through arranging supporters. Specifically support were provided with providing tuition fee, examination fee, school dress, book, copy etc. Out of 23 children three are reading at private school and others are reading at public schools.

4.8. F.M. Conduction:

With the aim to support in awareness of IPs as well as impacting the policy makers, F. M. program has been conducted. IP issues, cultures, history, political issues etc are presented from the F.M. The program issues presented from Time F. M. once in a week.

4.9. Language Training:

With aiming to protection and promotion of Language and Culture, Association of Nepal Kirat Kulung Language, Culture Development Organised One month training on Kulung Language training for Kulung Community. Kulung community members, who were not known the language, took part in the training. Similarly, Radu Natchhiring Shakam organised grammar development in Natchhiring Language was organised for one month. Natchhiring community members were participated in the training.

4.10. Proposal submission:

NGO-FONIN’s program is depending on its own resources contributed its member organisations and individual personals. As it has not other dependable funding resources, not able to conduct program activities as required. So, with aiming to busting NGO-FONINs’ program through access to outside resources, proposals were submitted to world bank, UNDP. Likewise, program concept papers were submitted to different donor agencies. No any positive responses have been received so far from any organisations.

Similarly, proposal developing support was provided member organisations (Nepal, Kirat Kulung Language Culture Development, Janachetana Samajh Sewa Youwa Club and district committees). Out of theme, District Committee of Nepal Kirat Kulung Language Culture Development has got assurance from ECO Himal (an INGO) for small grant support for the documentation work of Kulung language and culture. No responses have been received against other proposals.

5. Problem faced during the year:

1. Political Conflict:

The political conflict between Maoist rebel and government, which is taking place for the last 10 years, took place as a major political activity in different part of the country. Fear and insecure situation occurred in the whole part of the country due to insurgency activities took place in different part during the year. These insurgencies also affected NGO-FONIN programs. There were several days bandha (strikes) organized by different political parties. Students, transportation workers also organized different demonstration function.
2. Resources Lacking:

NGO-FONIN program is depending on its member organisations’ contribution and individual donation. It has no access to any resources (Government and non-government agencies) so far. So, it could not conduct programme activities as required.

6. Recommendation for Future:
Efforts to be made towards people organisation through sensitising about their conditions and their rights. For this, NGO-FONIN should have more human and budget resources. NGO-FONIN should make effort to explore partners or support organisations in order to implement people organisation program.
As IPs are deprived of right since long and they do not have opportunity of gaining experiences, they need more training, exposures as well as practicing opportunity. So, NGO-FONIN’s program will focus towards capacity building of its member organisations as well as district based organisations.
For conducting IPs rights campaign in an effective way, efforts to be made towards establishing network alliances at district, regional level. Similarly, lobby, interaction should be done with responsible authority for making them accountable towards IPs and maintaining good governance.