Children's Perspectives on Violence and Discrimination Against Girls in Nepal

Abstract

Violence against girls is a global problem with grave implications for girls and society at large. This paper details findings from field research that employed a child rights-based approach to explore Nepali children’s and young people’s views about violence and discrimination against girls. This research shows that in Nepal, violence and discrimination against girls encompass a wide range of harmful behaviours and treatment, including physical, sexual and emotional abuse, exploitation, menstrual discrimination, neglect, preferential treatment of boys and exposure to violence in the home. Participants expressed their views about endemic and structural discrimination against Nepali girls, and the prevalence and impact of men’s violence toward girls in Nepal, particularly in public places such as the community and on the streets. This research demonstrates children’s and young people’s comprehensive understandings of violence and discrimination against girls in their community, their knowledge about laws that deem this unlawful and their views about the widespread non-enforcement of these laws. The findings presented in this paper suggest that engaging children and young people in governmental efforts to combat violence and discrimination against girls presents a promising, yet often overlooked, opportunity to enhance girls’ citizenship rights.