Kathmandu - The breathtaking Karnali region, with its towering mountains and rich ecological diversity, stood as both a symbol of natural beauty and a testament to the pressing challenges of climate change. However, the province is experiencing threats like mountain thundering, GLOFs, declined crop productivity, global warming and other climate crisis.  In an effort to address these challenges and champion climate justice, the Karnali Conclave 2024 emerged as a pivotal platform for dialogue and action. Organized by Sathsathai in collaboration with the Ministry of Forest and Environment, this transformative event brought together stakeholders from diverse backgrounds to chart a path toward sustainable development and ecological resilience.

A Focus on Climate Justice for Women, Children and Vulnerable Communities

At the heart of the Karnali Conclave 2024 was the commitment to amplify the voices of those most affected by climate change, the mountain communities, women, children, and marginalized groups of Karnali. These populations bore the brunt of environmental degradation, yet their perspectives were often overlooked in mainstream climate discourse. By centering their experiences and aspirations, the conclave sought to ensure that solutions were equitable and inclusive. Karnali’s untapped potential for nature-based tourism served as a beacon of hope for sustainable economic growth. The conclave explored how eco-tourism could be harnessed to promote conservation while creating livelihood opportunities for local communities. This approach aligned with Karnali’s broader economic aspirations, emphasizing the balance between development and environmental stewardship.

Key discussions revolved around:

• Understanding localized climate impacts on agriculture, water resources, and livelihoods.
• Empowering women and children as change agents in climate resilience.
• Identifying barriers faced by marginalized groups in accessing resources and opportunities.
• Addressing Root Causes Through Collaboration

One of the defining features of the Karnali Conclave 2024 was its emphasis on collaboration. By blending local knowledge with expert insights, the event aspired to uncover the root causes of climate challenges and devise actionable solutions. Partnerships among policymakers, community leaders, researchers, and activists were pivotal in translating ideas into impactful actions.

The event’s agenda included:

• Facilitating dialogues between stakeholders and locals for cohesive decision-making.
• Showcasing innovative practices for climate adaptation and mitigation.
• Highlighting the role of youth and grassroots organizations in fostering change.

GLOBAL RESONANCE: FROM KARNALI TO THE WORLD STAGE

The outcomes of the Karnali Conclave 2024 reverberated far beyond the region. Insights gathered during the event contributed to international climate discussions, including the UN Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC COP 29). By elevating the priorities of Karnali on the global stage, the conclave sought to advocate for climate resilience and sustainable development at an international scale. 

Key aspirations included:

• Influencing global policies with localized success stories.
• Building alliances with international organizations to amplify impact.
• Establishing Karnali as a model for climate justice and sustainabilityfor women, children and youth.

Igniting Meaningful Change

The Karnali Conclave 2024 was more than an event, it was a movement toward a future where communities thrived in harmony with nature. By fostering meaningful conversations and collaborations, the conclave aimed to ignite actionable change, not only for Karnali but for mountain regions and vulnerable communities worldwide. Together, the participants envisioned a world that valued equity, resilience, and sustainability, ensuring a brighter tomorrow for all.

Celebrating Sathsathai's Efforts and Building Momentum

The remarkable strides made by SathSathai in addressing climate challenges in Karnali deserved recognition. Their persistent efforts in organizing workshops and empowering hidden mountain communities illuminated paths toward resilience and hope. From educating locals about sustainable practices to driving climate-conscious initiatives, Sathsathai became a beacon of change in the region.

However, their journey was far from over. The hidden voices of Karnali’s mountain dwellers, those most vulnerable to the climate crisis, still needed platforms to be heard and supported. To sustain and expand these critical efforts, support was essential. By contributing to initiatives led by Sathsathai, individuals could help organize more workshops, amplify local stories, and bring lasting solutions to those who needed them most.

The Karnali Conclave 2024 proved that collective action could champion climate justice and ensure a brighter, more sustainable future for the hidden gems of the mountains. 

Aastika bhujel   Kathmandu, Nepal.