Towards a life free of violence for women Home-Based Workers (HBWs) in South Asia

Women home-based workers (HBWs), working in the informal sector, often face numerous challenges, including low wages, gender-based violence, lack of labour recognition, absence of social security, and limited legal protection. In response to these problems, Women for Human Rights (WHR) initiated a project with the objectives of enhancing the capacities of women workers, strengthening group structures, and contributing to the building of a violence-free environment for women HBWs.

A. 3-day training on group formation and expansion

From 21 - 23 January, 2026, 30 home-based workers from around the Kathmandu Valley gathered at the WHR Central Office in Hattigauda to participate in a training program on leadership and group formation. The program covered topics such as leadership development, local resource mapping, and collaboration strategies. By the end of the 3-day session, participants developed preliminary action plans for group expansion, reported increased confidence in collective decision-making, and expressed commitment to coordinate with local government authorities.

B. 2-day training on addressing Violence Against Women (VAW)

Two 2-day training programs on VAW were organised on 26-27 January, 2026 and 29-30 January, 2026 in Sunakothi and Chandragiri, respectively. A total of 60 participants were engaged in key discussions on the types of gender-based violence, legal rights and complaint procedures, local support mechanisms, and self-protection strategies. The program helped participants develop a stronger understanding that violence should not be tolerated and supported them in preparing a preliminary list of local referral services for responding to cases of violence.

C. Monthly group meetings

On 13 and 18 January, 2026, group meetings were held in Sunakothi and Chandragiri. 30 HBWs reviewed group activities, discussed membership expansion, and identified challenges that were being experienced in their communities. By the end, an agreement was made to organise an interaction program with the local government in the next month, to get them more involved in HBW issues. 

Conclusion

The project laid a strong foundation for the empowerment, leadership development, and promotion of a violence-free environment for women HBWs. Participants demonstrated increased knowledge, skills, and confidence, and expressed a strong dedication to moving forward collectively.