A Grass-Roots Movement for Change in Nepal
Nepal, a nation with a rich cultural heritage, has a complex history with human rights. For over 240 years, Nepal was ruled by a monarchy. However, its people yearned for the ability to choose their own leaders and have a say in the governance of their nation. This yearning resulted in a 10-year-long civil war with thousands of casualties, disappearances and relocations. Even today, there are approximately 3,000 unresolved cases of disappearances, reminding us that justice remains elusive for many.
The civil war in Nepal led to a mass migration of people to urban centers. These individuals faced a lack of safety and employment opportunities and were often subjected to the rigid caste system, resulting in widespread suffering. This dire situation motivated Rahul KC, President of Youth for Human Rights (YHR) Nepal, to become a young human rights activist, advocating for change at a grass-roots level.
After completing his high school education, Rahul joined forces with Rishi Gautam, Director of Human Rights Nepal, and Guna Raj Pyakurel, General Secretary of Youth for Human Rights Nepal. Guna Raj had personally experienced the loss of two brothers to untreated illnesses, which inspired him to become a scoutmaster and dedicate his life to helping others, beginning with a campaign to bring human rights awareness to all Scouts across Nepal.
The trio embarked on a mission to create a grass-roots human rights movement, aiming to educate and empower individuals across Nepal. They began by educating women about domestic violence and other community issues through lectures and booklets, informing them of their rights. The impact was profound, as women realized the extent of their rights and the importance of speaking up.
In villages where child marriage was a deeply ingrained tradition, YHR Nepal’s program served as a source of inspiration. Girls who had been married by the time they were five years old began to understand their rights and the importance of their own autonomy.
As this movement gained momentum, the founders of YHR Nepal recognized that when women suffer, children suffer. They were determined to teach these rights as quickly as possible to create a ripple effect of change. The organization expanded its reach to schools across Nepal, educating students about human rights—the right to education, food, shelter and the elimination of discrimination.
By visiting various educational institutions, from primary schools to high schools and colleges, YHR Nepal aimed to connect students with the idea that their studies could help them improve society. The results were promising, with students not only standing up for their rights, but also encouraging others to do the same.
To date, YHR Nepal has reached over 800 schools, empowering children to claim their human rights. Through Guna Raj’s contacts, they brought the program to Scouts across Nepal, who are destined to become the future leaders of the country.
They worked on enlightening the Nepalese population about their human rights, extending their reach to security forces who play a crucial role in maintaining law and order. A workshop conducted at the Armed Police Force Training Center successfully trained 35,000 officers in human rights–friendly policing.
Recognizing that the government has the ultimate responsibility to protect human rights, YHR Nepal visited various government officials and introduced the YHR materials to the National Human Rights Commission of Nepal.
As a result of all this work, a new Constitution for Nepal came into effect, which forwards the protection and promotion of human rights.
Through grass-roots efforts and widespread education, Rahul KC, Rishi Gautam and Guna Raj Pyakurel have created a positive impact on the mind-set of young people in Nepal, fostering a belief that human rights can truly change society. As Rahul says, “Nothing is impossible if we are passionate and love the cause.” The tireless work of these human rights activists is paving the way for a more inclusive, equitable and just Nepal.
Watch the full story of Rahul KC and his team at scientology.tv/rahulkc.
