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
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
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.
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.
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