CIVIL-MILITARY RELATIONS
A popular uprising in 2006 overthrew the government of King Gyanendra and cleared the way for a formal peace process with the Maoist rebels and mainstream political parties. For the first time in 238 years of Nepal's history, the interim constitution brought the army under civilian control. To assist political parties and the Nepal Army in institutionalizing civilian control of the military, the Foundation facilitated a three-day civil-military relations retreat that provided a forum for senior political party and military leaders to share institutional views on the way forward, and to build personal relationships enabling them to work more cooperatively.
INNOVATIVE OPPORTUNITIES FOR TRAFFICKING SURVIVORS
Each year, thousands of young women are trafficked within and outside of Nepal and forced into exploitative labor situations, including prostitution. Factors such as extreme poverty, illiteracy, and internal conflict contribute to this illegal practice. The Foundation has provided more than 2,300 young women trafficking survivors, and those at risk of being trafficked, with non-formal education and vocational training, enabling them to become economically self-reliant. Many of these young women have been trained and employed in vocations normally reserved for men, such as drivers and mechanics. With support from Give2Asia, the Foundation helps program graduates establish “one-stop shops” where customers come for motorcycle and electronic repairs. The program challenges stereotypical gender roles, while providing the young women with gainful employment that reduces their risk of being trafficked.