Exploring and Addressing Sexual Violence of Boys in Nepal’, a research book has been launched by Honorable Minister for Women, Children and Social Welfare, Mr. Parwat Gurung on a special event organized by Voice of Children (VOC) on 23^rd December 2019.  Gracing the book launch and distribution event, Honorable Minister for Women Children and Social Welfare, Mr. Parwat Gurung delightfully expressed his gratitude and appreciated for the initiative from VOC in such crucial as well as sensitive issue. He claimed that it would be a good source for developing program and projects by the Nepal Government and the ministry to combat against child sexual violence. He stated that the book has enough evidences to shed lights on a taboo of Nepalese society that boys aren’t and cannot be the victim of sexual violence. Other speaker Prof. Dr. Govinda Subedi from Tribhuwan University presented his review on the book where he appreciated the significance of research, in understanding basic knowledge and ideas on children abuse primarily on boys.

The Director of VOC, Mr. Krishna Kumar Thapa had shared the main ideas and findings of the research to the present audiences in the book launch program. The research was conducted by VOC in 2018 with the support of Family for Every Child. It focused on existing sexual abuse on boys, the hidden and bitter fact of Nepal. Family for Every Child is an international alliance of 33 civil society organizations working to mobilize knowledge, skills and resources around children’s care. This study was proposed by five member organizations of the alliance. The aim of this qualitative study was to understand the influence of social norms on gender role and caring and protecting pattern of boys affected by sexual violence. The purpose of this initiative was to identify and share how understanding and addressing boys’ care and support needs can help prevent sexual violence and its negative effects.

The program was witnessed by well recognized participation representing Bar Association, Tribhuwan University, Lalitpur Municipality along with concerned stakeholders. 60 participants from NGOs, Government Bodies were present in the program.