The North East of India is always perceived, despite its history of conflict and violence, as an evolved region with egalitarian thinking. The position of women, it is thought, is a very strong there, with their matrilineal societies and non-orthodox social norms. However, reality is a far cry from this.

North East Network (NEN), Founded by Monisha Behal in 1995 is an NGO that was one of the first to make inroads into gender violence and discrimination, both rife in the area. NEN’s vision is to build a society in the north east region that upholds gender justice, equality and respect for human rights.

NEN’s Mission is to take forward women’s human rights through collective action by:

• Creating a culture of peace, both inside and outside the homes, through women’s active and informed involvement
• Strengthening women’s collectives, collective action and their leadership
• Increasing women’s representation in political, public and community processes
• Addressing discrimination and violence against women in both public and domestic spheres, and ensuring safer spaces
• Protecting the environment and biodiversity through innovative initiatives, by engaging youth and women.

Crucial interventions have been made for over 20 years in the areas of gender injustice in the form of training programmes, workshops, advocacy, and research. NEN is a crusader for pro-women laws, collective action, and participation of women in local governance as far as it is possible. Because of the conflict-ridden nature of the states it works in, it helps in access to entitlements, rehabilitation of displaced women, and participation in peace and development process. The powerful Gender Responsive Budgeting is one of its very effective tools. Linkages with other non-profits add reach and sustainability. 

For more information please visit the Link.