Demand For Equal Representation

The National Women’s Commission has demanded that there be 50 per cent women’s representation in the Constituent Assembly to be formed after the November 19 election. The demand has direct relation with the global call for gender equality. As Nepal’s slow development can be attributed to the practices that have denied equal representation of women in the political process, it has now been realised that women who constitute half of the population must be given equal representation at all levels of decision-making and the political process. If half of the population is deprived of due representation, the society and country cannot make much headway in any front. The issue concerning gender equality has, therefore, direct bearing on the social, political and cultural development of the country. Despite their huge contribution to the household economy and other sectors, their contribution is hardly recognised. As a result, women are backward compared to their male counterparts. As women are backward, so are the societies.

In theory, Nepal has adequate provisions for gender equality and women's rights. It has ratified the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women. The constitution has strictly prohibited any forms of discrimination on the ground of sex, colour and caste. At the same time, it has enacted several laws for ensuring equal rights for women. However, the reality is different. Majority of the women in Nepal are still backward and know nothing about the opportunities available or about representation. A limited number of women, who are educated and live in the urban areas, have taken advantage on behalf of all the Nepali women. That a large number of women living in the rural areas are still deprived of their basic rights stems largely from their ignorance about the rights and legal provisions concerning women’s rights and representation.

As far as representation of women in Nepal’s political process is concerned, the Interim Constitution has a mandatory provision to allocate at least 33 per cent of the seats to women in all spheres, including the Constituent Assembly. This provision has been made to ensure women’s dignified representation in the constitution-making and legislative process. However, the women don’t seem very happy with the provision of 33 per cent and are demanding more representation based on the percentage of their population. Against this background, the Women’s Commission’s demand for 50 per cent representation in the upcoming election should be analysed and due attention must be given to this just demand. But one must also understand that merely increasing women’s representation in the CA is not going to bring out a better constitution. A constitution goes much beyond women’s rights. You need people who have knowledge about writing a constitution and the long-term impact it has for the country’s future.