Technology and behavioural change important to end gender-based violence: PM Karki

Kathmandu, Nov 25: Prime Minister Sushila Karki has said that effective use of technology and social behavioural change are essential prerequisites for ending gender-based violence.

Inaugurating this year's 16-day activism against gender-based violence, which began with the national slogan 'Use technology correctly: end gender-based violence', here today, she said that violence in any pretext does not benefit anyone. "This year's slogan is relevant as the use of technology can spread awareness, improve access to information and strengthen the reporting system."

Stating that no religion, culture or tradition supports violence against women, and although the constitution and legal framework provide equal rights to women there are challenges in their practical implementation. She stressed the need to increase women's representation in decision-making levels and for that, parties should give priority to female candidates, to increase women's participation in elections.

Similarly, Prime Minister Karki said that since violence inflicts psychological and multifaceted harm to women's lives the protection, relief and rehabilitation of survivors is a priority of the state. "The 16-day campaign should bring about visible changes every year, the legal bases are sufficient, implementation is the key. Everyone should be involved in this," she said.

The Prime Minister also urged all sides to end gender-based violence through the proper use of technology, strong implementation of the law and positive behavioural changes. (RSS)