Governance

Governance & Participation

Inclusive • Accountable • Participatory • Rights-based • Gender-responsive

The Challenge
Despite Nepal’s ongoing federalization and decentralization reforms, many local governments - particularly in underserved areas like Madhesh Province face significant capacity gaps in delivering services effectively, transparently, and equitably. Citizen’s participation in governance remains limited, especially among women, Dalits, indigenous groups, and other marginalized communities, who often lack access to decision-making spaces and knowledge of their rights.
Weak coordination between citizens and authorities, inadequate planning and budgeting practices, and limited use of digital tools hinder inclusive development. Moreover, the absence of strong accountability mechanisms contributes to public mistrust and inefficient resource use.

Our Approach
BWSN promotes inclusive, accountable, and participatory governance rooted in a rights-based and gender-responsive framework. We work closely with local governments, civil society, and communities to build institutional capacity and empower citizens - particularly women and marginalized groups to actively engage in local development processes.
 
Key elements of our approach include:
• Training local government officials and community groups on participatory planning, budgeting, and monitoring

• Supporting the formation and capacity-building of Ward Citizens Forums, Health Facility Operation and Management Committees (HFOMCs), and other grassroots structures

• Facilitating public hearings, social audits, and participatory planning to promote transparency and public voice

• Promoting digital governance tools, including e-reporting and open data systems for improved accountability

• Raising awareness on civic rights, gender equity, and social inclusion, enabling communities to claim their entitlements

• Supporting advocacy and policy dialogue at local and district levels to strengthen governance systems

 
• Our work is guided by evidence-based programming, drawing from both primary and secondary data to align initiatives with real community needs. By applying a multisectoral approach especially in programs like nutrition, we address interconnected issues through coordinated strategies.
Above all, we ensure that women, children, and socially excluded groups are not just beneficiaries, but active participants in shaping the decisions that affect their lives.

Your Impact
With your support, we can strengthen local democracy ensuring the government works with and for its people. You help build systems where voices are heard, rights are respected, and communities lead their own development.
Together, we can foster transparent, inclusive, and accountable governance in Madhesh and beyond.