19%
Of girls are forced into marriage
Child marriage
Nepal has the 16th highest rate of child marriages in the world. This means that 40% of women in Nepal were married before the age of 18.
Child marriage is a violation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the emotional damage a child suffers from a forced union is profound. There is also an increased risk of child pregnancy and domestic violence.
In the province of Bagmati specifically, where Kavre is located, 19% of girls were married as a child. The national target to end child marriage by 2030 will require a major push from the government.
12,000
Girls are trafficked to Kathmandu
Trafficked and exploited
Children in Nepal are at high risk of becoming victims of human trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation. Nepal continues to be a source, transit and destination country for human trafficking. This has worsened after the devastating earthquake of 2015.
An estimated 12,000 girls from rural areas are trafficked to the Kathmandu Valley to work in so-called dance restaurants or massage parlours, where they are sexually exploited.
Young people, and especially girls, are also the most vulnerable group when it comes to international trafficking: they are often promised employment and a good salary abroad, but often end up in exploitative working conditions.
Your support makes a difference for children in Kavre
SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities to offer a wide range of support that is adapted to the local context. We always work in the best interest of the children, young people and families.
Are supported in the community
Learn at our kindergartens and schools
120
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
Are supported on their way to independence
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Siblings having fun together. They grow up with each other, and often form bonds that last a lifetime (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Nepal).
How your support helps in Kavre
Strengthening families and communities
When parents face hardships, they can sometimes struggle to give children the care they need. SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities. Each family needs different support so that they can stay together. This support can include workshops on parenting and children’s rights. We also run trainings so that parents can get the skills they need to get a job or start businesses. Likewise, we ensure that children can get medical help and go to school.
Providing quality education
SOS Children’s Villages ensures that children and young people have access to high-quality education. We help them learn and develop in a safe and supportive environment. We train teachers on children’s rights and child-centered learning, so that each child can get the most out of their education. Young children spend time playing and learning at kindergarten. This prepares them for primary school.
Caring for children who cannot live with their families
Some children cannot stay with their families, even with additional support. When this happens, they can find a new home in SOS Children’s Villages. Here the children can build safe and lasting relationships. All the children in our care have access to education and healthcare. Wherever possible, we work closely with the children’s family of origin. If children can return to live with their families, we help them adapt to this change.
Supporting young people to become independent
To help young people become confident and independent, our local team works closely with each young person to develop a plan for their future. We support young people and also help them prepare for the labour market and increase their employment prospects. For example, young people can attend workshops and trainings run by SOS Children’s Villages. They also improve their skills through taking part in different projects with local mentors and businesses.