Safe Motherhood in Nepal

Traditional dominance of Nepali society by high caste males significantly limits the opportunities of women and people from ethnic groups and lower castes, trapping them in a endless cycle of poverty and exclusion. This has particular effects on the health of women and excluded groups, and strategic action is needed to break this mould and directly address gender and social inclusion issues related to health and safe motherhood. Establishment and strengthening of a Gender and Social Inclusion Unit (GSIU) is required within the Ministry of Health and Population, as a first step in the process of making access to health services more inclusive.