History and Overview

The National Federation of Women Living with HIV and AIDS (NFWLHA) is a woman-led organization that emerged from a discourse on the need for gender equality within the People Living with HIV (PLHIV) community in 2006, through an informal network called the Women Network Against HIV and AIDS in Nepal. Since its formal establishment in 2007, NFWLHA has achieved tangible changes in the lives of women living with HIV and AIDS (WLHA), particularly in terms of empowerment.

Many women who previously could not speak out or advocate for themselves now address public gatherings, lead local and national organizations, and disclose their HIV status openly, although full societal acceptance remains a work in progress. As an organization run by and for WLHA, NFWLHA has successfully united women across Nepal at the national level, though challenges remain. WLHA continues to face multiple layers of stigma, discrimination, and social disadvantage. Most are already economically marginalized, and the virus often exacerbates their vulnerability.

NFWLHA strongly believes that without economic and social empowerment, interventions in treatment, care, and support, though essential, cannot achieve their full impact. Breaking the cycle of poverty is a fundamental step toward ensuring the well-being and rights of WLHA.

Today, NFWLHA’s network extends to 35 districts, covering nearly all provinces, with over 28 member organizations all led by WLHA. More than 51% of the executive board and general members are WLHA. While this may be seen as a gender-focused approach, it is a necessary affirmative measure to ensure that WLHA, who have historically been excluded from accessing services and resources, are empowered and represented.

Member organization