Breaking the Cycle. A Rights-based Community Intervention to Address Menstrual Discrimination in Bajura, Nepal

Abstract

Menstruation, despite being a biological process, is treated with shame and taboo, and menstruators are discriminated against because they menstruate. Menstrual discrimination pertains in various forms, and Chhaupadi is one such form in Bajura, Nepal. It isolates menstruating women in menstrual huts and infringes upon their rights. It is criminalized, and different legal reforms are in place; nonetheless, it persists. Thus, to address deeply rooted Chhaupadi, this project aims to educate communities about menstruation as a biological process, shift norms surrounding associated taboos, and highlight violations of fundamental rights.

Through programs in two phases: a one-day educational program to promote Menstrual Health Management and a four-day Training of Trainers Program, to build the capacity of local trainers in Menstruation and Women’s Rights, and have them make their own reusable pads, the project seeks to inform menstruation as a natural process. Ultimately, the project aims to foster individual and collective behavioral change, especially among mothers, to create a ripple effect, reduce gender barriers, promote gender equality, and foster a healthier, more inclusive environment for all menstruators. The project expects to continue its impact through local trainers who will replicate the 4-day Women’s Rights Program in their own communities.