KATHMANDU: Torun Dramdal, Norwegian Ambassador to Nepal, delivered a strong message on gender equality during the International Women’s Day 2025 event at ICIMOD, emphasizing the urgent need for decisive action to tackle gender inequality in the Hindu Kush Himalaya region.
While acknowledging incremental progress, the Ambassador pointed out that women, particularly those in rural and marginalized communities, continue to face significant barriers across critical sectors, including agriculture, forestry, energy, and water governance.
Ambassador Dramdal made it clear that achieving gender equality requires more than just policy statements—it demands concrete, measurable change.
She highlighted the importance of amplifying women’s voices in decision-making processes and ensuring that resources, opportunities, and benefits are shared equitably among all members of society.
Her comments called for immediate action to create real, sustainable change for women in the region.
As a long-time partner of ICIMOD, Norway reaffirmed its support for the organization’s ongoing work to integrate gender equality and social inclusion into its climate resilience, sustainable development, and economic empowerment initiatives.
The Ambassador’s address reinforced Norway’s commitment to ensuring that gender equality remains a central focus in regional development strategies, contributing to lasting, inclusive progress across the Hindu Kush Himalaya.
This renewed commitment highlights the critical role of international cooperation in addressing gender disparities and fostering a more equitable future for women in the region.
