The evaluation workshop brought together union leaders and organisers to reflect on achievements, challenges, and the path forward in the struggle for recognition and regularisation of Female Community Health Workers (FCHWs) in Nepal.

Since 2022, unions have mobilised more than 1,350 new members, formed dozens of local committees, and submitted charters of demands to over 40 municipalities. Key breakthroughs include the registration of more than 500 FCHWs under the Social Security Fund and policy gains such as improved retirement benefits in several municipalities.

Despite these advances, participants lamented the continued lack of formal recognition of FCHWs as public sector workers. At the same time, they acknowledged the progress of taking their struggle to the highest political levels. As one participant reflected:

We’ve come from calling ourselves volunteers to demanding our rights as workers. This is only the beginning—we are committed to the fight.

The workshop prioritised participatory evaluation, with unions assessing their organising capacity, advocacy strategies, and gender equity goals. Group reflections highlighted notable progress while stressing the need for stronger data, sharper political strategy, and unified messaging. Power-mapping exercises also helped identify key allies and decision-makers, from local mayors to international bodies such as the ILO.

Looking ahead, affiliates committed to sharpening their organising approach, leveraging the Social Security Fund as a tool for mobilisation, and strengthening alliances with other health and education unions.