Provincial Policy Dialogue and CSOs Conference conducted in Bagmati Province

NGO Federation of Nepal organized a policy dialogue and CSO conference in Hetauda to address the challenges faced by civil society organizations (CSOs). Bahadur Singh Lama, the chief minister of Bagmati province, Lakshmi Shrestha, a Member of the Bagmati Provincial Assembly, Lalit Bahadur Ghalan, Head of the Makwanpur District Coordination Committee, Ram Prasad Subedi, President of NFN Center, as well as officials and representatives from various agencies and civil society organizations participated in the conference. Representatives from civil organizations across all districts of Bagmati Province also took part in the discussions. During the morning session, participants delved into the challenges faced by civil society organizations and civic space. Outcome so of the discussion was presented at the conference in the afternoon, urging the provincial government to take notice and commit to action. In his remarks, Chief Minister Bahadur Singh Lama acknowledged that while the constitution outlines the role of three levels of government, implementation needs improvement. He pledged to address the concerns of civil organizations through policy reforms based on factual evidence and active participation, promising to compile a list of organizations operating in Bagmati Province to foster a collaborative approach with CSOs. The discussions highlighted the need to enhance the partnership environment and promote democratic practices related to Civil Society Organizations. Participants pointed out that despite the establishment of a federal system, the political and institutional climate has not fundamentally improved the status of civil society organizations within society. Ram Prasad Subedi, president of the NGO Federation of Nepal, emphasized the critical role civil organizations play in partnership and vigilance, expressing concern over local authorities becoming arbitrary and disregarding citizens' voices. He also expressed disappointment over the government's slow progress in securing and utilizing foreign grants and aid, despite its intentions to seek foreign loans.