Nepal's Climate Justice Landscape Study is prepared in order to strengthen disability-inclusive climate justice initiatives in Nepal. The Study provides critical evidence and strategic direction necessary to advance the disability-inclusive climate justice movement in Nepal, and it is expected that it serves as a foundational resource for OPD leaders, government agencies, relevant civil society organizations, policymakers, and advocacy coalitions dedicated to achieving equitable climate action. This is based on the fact that persons with disabilities suffer a disproportionate impact owing to existing barriers in mobility and communication, limited access to resources, and insufficient representation in vital decision-making forums of climate change actions. Compounding this challenge, systemic exclusion and social stigma exacerbate their vulnerability, hindering their effective participation in preparedness, adaptation, and recovery efforts.
The report produced by BYAN which provided critical evidence and strategic direction necessary for engaging stakeholders to advance disability-inclusive climate justice in Nepal. The main objective of the study was to identify and assess stakeholders engaged in climate change, justice, and inclusion in Nepal, and to generate actionable recommendations for strategic engagement of stakeholders to advance disability-inclusive climate justice in Nepal. The findings of the report are intended to serve as a foundational resource for OPD leaders, government agencies, civil society organizations, policymakers, and advocacy coalitions dedicated to working towards equitable climate action and social inclusion.
The Blind Youth Association Nepal (BYAN) has carried out a research study under the UNESCO Youth Grant Scheme as part of the project “Climate Change Resilience and Inclusive Futures: Empowering Persons with Disabilities for Dealing with the Social Impact of Climate Change.” The study explores how climate change is affecting young persons with disabilities in Nepal, their level of awareness, and the barriers they face in accessing information, services, and decision-making spaces. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research gathered evidence from 92 young persons with disabilities across the country along with insights from key stakeholders.
Findings show that young persons with disabilities have low access to climate information, face heightened risks during disasters, and experience impacts on health, mobility, education, livelihoods, and safety. Despite their vulnerability, their participation in climate policy processes remains extremely limited, often tokenistic. The study highlights the urgent need for accessible communication, inclusive early warning systems, capacity-building opportunities, and stronger collaboration between government, OPDs, and development partners. Centering their lived experiences and ensuring “Nothing About Us Without Us” is essential to building disability-inclusive climate resilience in Nepal.