Mohna Ansari stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration in Nepal, a country navigating its journey toward inclusivity and equality. Renowned as Nepal’s first female attorney from the Muslim community, she has broken countless barriers, making her an iconic figure in the realms of human rights, legal advocacy, and gender equity. Appointed to the National Human Rights Commission in 2014, Ansari’s work reflects unwavering commitment to the ideals of justice and social progress.
Early Life of Mohna Ansari: A Foundation Built on Resilience
Born in Nepalgunj, Banke, into a lower-middle-class Muslim family, Mohna Ansari’s childhood was a mix of challenges and hope. Her family lived on ailani land—public land informally occupied—until government reforms allowed ownership through taxation. However, a legal dispute over their land left her father disheartened, but it ignited a spark in young Mohna. Watching her family’s struggle with the legal system motivated her to pursue a career in law, determined to be an advocate for justice.
Despite financial constraints, her parents valued education. While her brothers attended English medium schools, Mohna attended a government school, receiving both modern and Islamic education. This dual foundation nurtured her intellect and resilience, shaping her determination to break societal barriers.
Her pursuit of higher education faced significant hurdles. Financial difficulties forced her to pause her college studies after the first year. However, with a scholarship and sheer perseverance, she returned to complete her bachelor’s degree in law at Mahendra Multiple Campus in 2003. Alongside her studies, she worked as a tutor and journalist, penning articles on women and children’s issues.
A Career Forged in Advocacy
Mohna Ansari’s professional journey began as a journalist, focusing on issues affecting women and children. Her early involvement with organizations like Amnesty International Nepal and INSEC provided a platform for her advocacy.
In 2003, she joined the Nepal Bar Association Banke, managing legal assistance programs for vulnerable women and children. Her dedication expanded her reach to national and international organizations, including UNDP and Action Aid Nepal, where she championed causes like gender equity, social inclusion, and conflict resolution.
Her role as a master trainer in “Gender and Equity Concerns” highlights her impact on capacity-building initiatives, where she has empowered hundreds of individuals. In 2010, her expertise led her to author a significant paper on the social inclusion of Muslims in Nepal for the National Inclusion Commission.
Appointed as a commissioner for the National Women Commission (NWC) of Nepal from 2010 to 2014, she played a pivotal role in addressing issues like gender-based violence and statelessness among women and children. Her representation at international forums underscored her leadership, presenting papers across Asia, Europe, and the United States.
Legacy at the National Human Rights Commission
In October 2014, Mohna Ansari became a member of the National Human Rights Commission of Nepal, a historic appointment that marked her as a trailblazer. Her tenure has been instrumental in amplifying the voices of marginalized communities, advocating for systemic reforms, and highlighting Nepal’s human rights challenges on global platforms.
Awards and Recognition
Mohna Ansari’s dedication has earned her numerous accolades:
- Suprabal Jana Sewa Shree Award (2012) – Conferred by Nepal’s president for her exemplary public service.
- Nava Devi Award (2012) – Recognizing her as a real-life hero for her contributions to women’s empowerment.
- Portraits of Leadership (2008) – Named one of 10 Asian women leaders by The Asia Foundation.
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