Kathmandu, June 11 -- Women leaders, entrepreneurs, lawmakers and activists gathered in Kathmandu on Wednesday to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing women in leadership, politics and public life, with speakers emphasising that representation alone is not enough without economic independence, institutional support and meaningful participation in decision-making.

The discussions took place during the sixth edition of Nirbhik Nari, an annual conclave organised by Nari Magazine, a co-publication of the Kantipur Media Group, bringing together voices from business, politics, civil society and advocacy to examine issues surrounding gender equality and women's empowerment.

The day-long event featured sessions on leadership, harassm...