Strengthening social protection for Indigenous Peoples in Nepal: FAO project kicks off

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has initiated a project in Nepal aimed at informing policymaking on strengthening the resilience of Indigenous Peoples through social protection.

“Access to social protection programmes is instrumental for Indigenous Peoples to sustain and participate in their food and knowledge systems, especially during shock and stresses and in the framework of a changing climate ” explained Federico Spano, FAO Social Policy Officer. However, he noted that a lack of evidence and disaggregated data often leads to missed opportunities to understand how to maximize the benefits of social protection investments.

This project aims to bridge this gap by ensuring that support and services are not only available and accessible, but also culturally appropriate, meeting the rights of Indigenous Peoples.

To achieve this, an in-depth assessment will be conducted to document Indigenous Peoples‘ experiences in accessing social protection.

The collected data will identify barriers and successes, as well as evaluate how formal social protection systems compliment or conflict with Indigenous Peoples’ informal safety nets mechanisms. The study will also explore how their needs are reflected in finance, governance and coordination structures.

Building on these findings, policy and programme levels recommendations will be developed to support the Government of Nepal, Indigenous Peoples networks and other non-government stakeholders, in formulating national policies with lasting impact on inclusive rural development.

Nepal´s efforts in social protection for Indigenous Peoples

Nepal is home to 140 ethnicities, although only 59 ethnic groups are officially recognized - who represent 35 percent of the national population. Among these, ten groups qualify for government support through the Endangered Ethnicity Grant. This programme provides unconditional cash transfer of 3 990 rupees per month and is part of a broader social protection legal framework outlined in the Social Security Act, 2075.

Despite actions taken by the Government of Nepal towards the socio-economic inclusion of Indigenous Peoples and other marginalized groups, there remains a lack of comprehensive data on social protection coverage for these communities. Additionally, research on the accessibility, adequacy, and impact of social protection assistance for these populations is limited.

Bringing the project to life

FAO will leverage its extensive experience and knowledge and will facilitate a multi-sector dialogue process at national and sub-national levels in Nepal, with particular attention to the participation of Indigenous Peoples.

FAO is uniquely positioned to lead this process due to its established relationships with key national stakeholders working with Indigenous Peoples, and on social protection, development, and natural resource management sectors.

This project is funded by the Flexible Voluntary Contribution (FVC).