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As a feminist activist, in the past 25 years Rita is recognized for her groundbreaking work in founding Tewa, - the Nepal Women's Fund. Currently she is engaged in peace-building work through Nagarik Aawaz, which she founded in 2001 and works in founding and strengthening women's networks for peace.Rita served on the Board of the Global Fund for Women/USA for 6 years. She is a current Board member of the Urgent Action Fund/USA, and also serves on the Asia Center for Policy Studies (SACEPS). Rita was the Dame Nita Barrow Distinguished Visitor 2002 at the University of Toronto, and is an Ashoka Fellow.

What is the general Status of women in Nepal in your opinion?

It is difficult to categorize all women under a single blanket. The status of women varies depending on their geographical location, ethnicity, age, religion, caste and class. A woman from Kathmandu may have better opportunity and status than a woman from Karnali, because of the differences in opportunities and access. But compared to the past, the status of women has over time to some extent changed and improved. Women today have become more aware and educated. The Jana Aandolan I and II also have helped in making women more aware politically making a direct link with economics and education. But politically speaking, women still lack the space that is required for them in decision-making. It is said that 33% representation is now mandatory, but woman still have to protest and demonstrate to claim for their rightful space.

What are the major women issues in Nepal?

Patriarchal structures and how this impacts on our lives, and women’s reproductive role that is undervalued and over used, are the two major concerns. Men are over valued in our societies and have more opportunities, than women. Women have been deprived from various opportunities simply because of their roles as a child bearer although biological difference is limited to the ability to bear children and breast-feed the baby. Our society believes that the prime responsibility of any woman is looking after their children and home.As long as this thinking prevails in our society, it will be a hinderance for women’s overall upliftment and empowerment.

What is the relation between women empowerment and role of NGO?

There are different kinds of NGOs in Nepal. Some work in a project oriented way while others work for social justice. There are some NGOs that claim to work for women, develop projects for women but actual work being done by such NGOs for women’s development has shown little results so far. However in cases where women as feminists and activists organize for the larger good, it has a better impact since they work from an analysis of patriarchy, and understand women’s issues.

How was Tewa started?

I started Tewa from a clear understanding that the costs of rapid social, economic and political transitions in Nepal would be very high and we needed to create safety nets to minimize the costs. On the other hand my professional experience informed me that development was increasingly job and project oriented and accordingly working from within aid structures I was a increasingly a part of a problem rather than a solution. Therefore, looking at the available opportunities of a rapidly deteriorating traditional philanthropy inherent in religious and cultural giving; and the nationwide organizing of women particularly post 1990, but their inability to access small grants owing to their restricted mobility and voice (ability to write proposals in English for example), Tewa initiated and popularized modern philanthropy where we can begin to give for health, education or women’s empowerment, thus at the same time creating a basis for self-reliant development. Besides I was also keen to demonstrate an organization culture that reflected what it meant to do and a transition of leadership where second line leadership can be groomed in an ongoing way.

What is your opinion towards the political changes and its impact on the status of woman?

The political changes have helped to improve women’s status to some extent. The federal system has committed to women equitable participation by devolving responsibilities at the district levels. Also, women themselves have broadened their horizon. They have become more educated and aware. Eleven years of civil war in Nepal, has impacted most negatively on women. Many are young widows, others have lost their children and their safety net is gone, leaving them vulnerable with little support. If these issues are tackled and the roots of patriarchy is uprooted from the society, then there is a good opportunity and hope for the development of women.

What is your assessment towards NGO that is run by women for women?

Although in lesser numbers, there are organizations where women are working for women’s development and upliftment. There is no recognition or support for such women hence we see very few women and men who are willing to work for this cause. To work for woman issues, one should understand woman issue properly and realize the problem faced by women from within. Only women can understand women's issues. Hence,woman have started working for women’s development since few others will work with required sincerity. Also it is better because feminists understand feminine problem and they can take it forward also. However feminist men need to be recognized and their work and presence is invaluable.Tewa has given out over 300 grants to rural women’s groups - which is phenomenal!

What is your suggestion for a NGO like Prerana?

The work being done by Prerana by mobilizing its own resources both human and financial, is not for women alone but for the larger community inclusive of children the aged which is appreciable. Such organizations need to be mindful of being service oriented. Organizations can learn from the experiences of those who have done similar work in the past so as not to have to start from scratch, engaging experts and professionals for will be helpful in the beginning. Introspective reflection on the basis of it work, analysis of critical and pertinent issues, and clarity of its vision and mission is critical. It is important to learn in a process oriented way. The working style of Prerana of being self-reliant by local resource mobilization is very commendable while being open for support from other feminist funds if so required. The challenge is to grow professionally as well as programmatically.

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