Nepal

Nepal is among the poorest and least-developed countries in the world with almost one-third of its population living below the poverty line. Agriculture is the main source of employment for 75 percent of the population. In Nepal farmers have been involved mainly in subsistence farming which does not enable them to make significant economic gain.

Half the population of Nepal comprises of children below 18 years. Children are more vulnerable, particularly when combined with poverty, as they can fall prey to abuse, exploitation and neglect.

Infant and under-five mortality rates are 46 and 54 deaths per 1,000 live births, respectively.

Exposure to infectious diseases, malnutrition, and poor hygiene and sanitation and lack of a healthy environment affects the health of children. Still many primary school age children are not at school, and of these the majority are girls. Nepal is a disaster prone country and is subjected to annual floods and landslides. Slow onset disasters related to climate change are an increasing concern, particularly in the Western regions of Nepal.

World Vision is working to address the immediate poverty issues confronting children and vulnerable communities in Nepal integrating its work efforts in advocacy, development and humanitarian emergency affairs.