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 hel
d 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.
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 hel
d 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.
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