KATHMANDU, June 3: Over 30 federations and networks of civil society and social organisations have called for the restructuring of the Social Welfare Council and the establishment of an autonomous “Social Development Board” in line with Nepal’s federal democratic system.
At a joint press conference held on Wednesday, representatives of the organisations expressed serious concern over recent government proposals suggesting the possible dissolution of the Social Welfare Council under planned governance reforms and policy changes.
Reading out a joint statement, Non-Governmental Organization Federation Nepal Chair Arjun Bhattarai said any decision involving restructuring or abolition of key public institutions must be based on thorough study, research, stakeholder consultation, and public dialogue.
'Social Welfare Act' to be amended as an umbrella act
The organisations urged the government to replace the current council with a legally empowered, independent, inclusive, and representative Social Development Board. They stressed that the new structure should include balanced participation from government, civil society, private sector, cooperatives, experts, and development partners.
They also called for full implementation of constitutional rights under Article 17(c), ensuring freedom to form and operate organisations, as well as protection of civil liberties guaranteed by international human rights treaties to which Nepal is a party.
The joint appeal emphasized safeguarding the independence of civil society organisations in managing resources, implementing development programmes, and participating in publicly funded or foreign-assisted projects.
The groups further urged the government to ensure transparency, accountability, and digitalisation in the regulation and monitoring of foreign aid and social development programmes.
They also demanded greater participation of civil society in national development processes and recognition of the social sector as a key partner in employment generation, social justice, human rights, and sustainable development.
The joint appeal was signed by a wide range of organisations, including the NGO Federation of Nepal, Nepal Bar Association, Federation of Nepali Journalists, and other national federations representing human rights, indigenous communities, women, youth, disability rights, cooperatives, and sectoral networks.
