Samata Foundation

Samata Foundation is the only Dalit-led independent think tank in Nepal,exclusively conducting research and evidence-based policy advocacy within the core context of caste-based discrimination and Dalit community. Samata Foundation was officially registered under the Company Act, 2063 BS as a profit-not-sharing organization in 2009. Samata Foundation provides concrete and scientific information to bring positive change in the society, helps to formulate new policies and amend the existing policies concerning the welfare of Dalit communities. It engages in empirical research and evidence-based policy advocacy for the rights of marginalized people, especially Dalit social groups, both from Hill and Madhesh. Samata’s core priorities are mainly focused to conduct various studies, compilation of Dalit related data, its analysis and publication of advocacy tools. Samala provides necessary support to lawmakers from both Dalit and non-Dalit communities with research-based information, publications, review of existing government policies and laws on Dalit issues. In order to achieve its intended goals and ensure long-term sustainability, Samata Foundation is investing in building capacity of young Dalit researchers and transforming the in-house resource center into a Dalit Knowledge Bank. As it nears its tenth anniversary, Samata Foundation has launched a nationwide mega-campaign to build a critical mass of Dalits and non Dalits, particularly youth, who believe in its vision of a society free of caste-based discrimination.