Annual Report 2023-2024
Media Advocacy Group (MAG)
Introduction
Since its inception in 2008, Media Advocacy Group (MAG) has been one of the strong voices for democracy, gender equality, and social inclusion. Committed to empowering people at the grassroots level and working relentlessly for policy reforms, the organization remains committed to securing all rights and opportunities for every member of society. This annual report presents major achievements and ongoing initiatives of this organization during the financial year 2023-2024.
Key Achievements
1. Advocacy and Policy Reform
MAG reviewed a number of policies and laws at the national level from a GESI perspective, hence advocating for the same inclusive reforms. Significant gains have been achieved in the lobbying for policies that provide equal opportunities for women and socially excluded groups.
2. Empowering Communities
MAG undertook focused programs to ensure that women and marginalised communities were empowered to lead and take part in decision-making. The programs ensured the amplification of their voices in the local governance and community development aspects.
3. Safer Migration and Right to Information
MAG conducted awareness campaigns and training on safer migration practices and the right to information, thus enabling people to make informed decisions and have access to vital resources.
4. Strengthening Collaboration
MAG aimed at trust and collaboration building between CSOs and the media for better mutual understanding and effective partnership in creating social change.
5. Disaster Preparedness and Recovery
As a member of the WFDM network, MAG played an important role in mainstreaming GEEW principles into disaster risk reduction and preparedness efforts. Our work in earthquake-affected areas focused on building resilience and ensuring equitable recovery efforts.
Programs and Activities
A. United States (US) Embassy Supported Program
– Project Title: Sustainable Pathways for Women Journalists
– Project Duration: 1st October 2022 – 20th September 2023
– Upcoming Duration: May 15, 2024 – May 15, 2026
B. Article 19 Supported Program
– Project Title: Internet Freedom Initiative (IFI) Project
– Duration: 2021 – 2023
C. FWLD Supported Program
– Activity 1: Status of the Implementation of the Nepal Citizenship Act, A Media Interaction Program
– Event Details:
– Venue: Yak Palace, Lalitpur
– Date: 9th August, 2023
D. FES Supported Program
– Program Title: Stakeholder Consultation on Addressing Digital Violence: Exploring Policy Challenges and Solutions
– Date: 24th August, 2023
– Venue: Yak Palace, Lalitpur
E. Individual Donor Supported Program
– Program Title: Leadership Development in Women Politicians
– Duration: January 2023 – September 2024
– Activity 1: Podcast with prominent and aspiring leaders and motivational speakers
F. TEWA Supported Program
– Project Title: Cyber-Security Training for Women Politicians
– Duration: July 2023 – April 2024
– Event Details:
– Date: 2nd & 7th April, 2024
– Venue: Alfa House and Yak Palace
G. RUTGERS University Journalism Initiative on Gender-Based Violence (JiG) Supported Program
– Project Title: Basic Journalism and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) for LGBTQI
– Duration: May 15 – July 15, 2024
– Event Details:
– Date: 9th & 10th May, 2024
– Venue: Media Advocacy Group, Thapathali Height, Kathmandu
H. Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) Supported Program
– Project Title: Two-Day Panel Discussion Program on Visibility of Women Leadership in Media
– Duration: June – July, 2024
– Event Details:
– Date: 11th & 13th June, 2024
– Venue: Yak Palace
I. Ministry of Communication and Information Technology Supported Program
– Project Title: Digital and Media Literacy for Women Politicians
– Duration: July 2024
– Event Details:
– Date: 2nd July, 2024
– Venue: Yak Palace, Lalitpur
J. RBC Trustees (Jersey) Limited Wealth Management Supported Program
– Project Title: Effective Communication for Women Politicians
Financial Highlight
MAG had a budget of NPR 25 million in this fiscal year, sourced from international donors, national partners, and individual contributors. The detailed financial statements are annexed.
Way Forward
Going forward, MAG is committed to scaling up its advocacy of inclusive policy reforms, intensifying grassroots engagements, and enhancing disaster resilience programs. We continue to pledge to help create a just and equal society through our work in continuous media advocacy, policy engagement, and capacity building.
Acknowledgments
We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our donors, partners, and community stakeholders for their unwavering support. Your contributions have been instrumental in driving our mission forward.
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Contact Us
Media Advocacy Group (MAG)
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.mag.org.np
Let us continue to strive together for a society that enshrines democracy, equality, and inclusion for all.