Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda,' emphasized the prioritization of vulnerable communities for climate change compensation in Nepal. During a meeting with a delegation from the Sathsathai foundation, he stressed the importance of directing assistance towards women, children, tribal groups, and other high-risk communities affected by climate change.
Highlighting Nepal's vulnerability to climate change, Prime Minister Prachanda emphasized the significance of allocating internationally received grants to support these vulnerable groups. He reiterated his longstanding advocacy for empowering women, tribes, minorities, and marginalized communities, acknowledging the progress made in empowering women and their increased leadership roles within the country.
Chairperson of Sathsathai, Prajita Karki, handed a letter of recommendation to PM Prachanda, advocating that 50% of climate change compensation opportunities should be guaranteed for women, children, senior citizens, tribal groups, disabled individuals, minorities, and other high-risk communities.
During the meeting, Chairperson Karki informed that Sathsathai would host two simultaneous 'side events' at Nepal's pavilion during COP-28. She also informed PM Dahal that Princess Sheikh Ashma Al Thani of Qatar would be the chief guest on December 4. Prime Minister Dahal assured coordination and support through Nepal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Princess Al Thani's visit to Nepal Pavilion.
Foreign Minister NP Saud expressed Nepal's delight in having Princess Al Thani as a guest at the Nepal Pavilion, emphasizing the significance of her presence. He also assured that the Nepal Embassies in Doha and Abu Dhabi would coordinate for the Princess's visit to Nepal Pavilion.
Saru Joshi Shrestha, an expert on women and climate issues, highlighted the impact of climate change on the Himalayan and Terai regions, citing a 6% decrease in the Himalayan population and a 54% increase in the Terai due to climate change. She also pointed out negative population growth in 34 districts and a 6% rise in women's workload as a result of climate change.
A recommendation letter submitted to Prime Minister Prachanda emphasized the accelerated melting of Himalayan snow and the heightened risk of natural disasters. It also highlighted the severe impact of climate-related disasters on local communities' livelihoods, health, education, and employment. Through the letter, Sathsathai urged government to strongly advocate for climate justice on international platforms.
The meeting was attended by Foreign Minister Saud, Prime Minister's Climate Advisor Dr. Popular Gentle, the Sathsathai team led by Chairperson Karki, along with Tasi Lhamu Sherpa, Vice President of Khumbu Pasanglhamu Rural Municipality, Badri Sigdel, Executive Member of the International Federation of Journalists, expert Saru Joshi Shrestha, advisor Sareetashri Gyawali, and treasurer Prada Karki Joshi.
