KATHMANDU, SEPTEMBER 3

UNFPA, the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency, and Yeti Airlines signed a cooperation agreement to advance gender equality and end gender-based violence through innovative advocacy and joint action.

The partnership leverages Yeti Airlines' nationwide presence and community reach to provide an estimated 3000 passengers daily with critical awareness on gender-based violence, sexual and reproductive health and rights, and the protection of women and young people.

As part of the agreement, Yeti Airlines will introduce advocacy initiatives such as placing hotline numbers and referral information on boarding passes, distributing awareness leaflets in seat pockets, and publishing features in its in-flight magazine Parikrama, reaching approximately 1 million passengers annually. These efforts will help ensure that life-saving information travels with every passenger across Nepal.

'It is a commendable initiative by UNFPA and Yeti Airlines to place essential information on gender-based violence inside the aircraft,' said Mr. Rajesh Shrestha, an avid traveller. 'This effort not only raises awareness about what constitutes violence but also ensures travellers know what services are available and how to access them.'

The partnership also includes capacity-building for Yeti Airlines staff on Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA). Training sessions delivered by UNFPA will strengthen staff knowledge on safeguarding principles, reporting mechanisms, and creating a respectful environment for passengers.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Sriram Haridass, UNFPA Representative a.i. in Nepal, said, 'Every flight is more than a journey. It is also a chance to share messages of dignity, equality, and safety. Together with Yeti Airlines, we are ensuring that critical information travels with every passenger across Nepal.'

Yubraj Bista, Chief Business Officer from Yeti Airlines, added, 'As a company rooted in Nepal and committed to corporate social responsibility, Yeti Airlines is proud to collaborate with UNFPA. By bringing advocacy into our operations, we aim to play our part in building a society free from violence and discrimination.'

The agreement will remain in effect until September 2027, marking a long-term commitment by both parties to work jointly in advancing gender equality, promoting women's empowerment, and ensuring that survivors of violence can access the support and dignity they deserve.

UNFPA, the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency, works in over 150 countries and territories to ensure every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. In Nepal, UNFPA partners with government, civil society, and the private sector to advance gender equality, reproductive health, and the rights of women and young people.

Yeti Airlines is one of Nepal's leading domestic carriers, dedicated to providing safe, reliable, and affordable air services. As part of its corporate social responsibility, Yeti Airlines is committed to contributing to social development and sustainability in Nepal.