KATHMANDU, Dec 3: Nepal is home to over 936,000 households with at least one single woman, according to data from the National Population and Housing Census 2021. These women—defined as widows, divorced, separated, or never-married women aged 35 and above—represent a growing demographic. However, this increase has not translated into improved living conditions for many, as data reveals significant social, economic, and regional challenges.
Data show that widows make up the majority of single women, accounting for 6.6 percent of the female population. Over the past two decades, the percentage of widows has doubled—a trend influenced by longer life expectancy and increased rates of separation and divorce. These statistics represent a demographic shift in Nepal, reflecting evolving social dynamics, particularly in urban areas where divorce rates are comparatively higher. Yet, the growing numbers also expose gaps in societal and policy responses to the unique needs of these groups. This paradox reflects the dual-edged reality of increased life spans for single women, whose prolonged years are often spent contending with the vulnerabilities compounded by societal neglect as well as policy gaps.
Lengthening period of singlehood
The data highlights a significant reality: the observed mean age for entering singlehood is 62.03 years, while widowhood begins at an average age of 64.97 years. Women aged 15-19 are expected to live approximately 48-51 years without experiencing singlehood or widowhood, underscoring the potential for decades spent in these statuses. Despite this extended period of singlehood, societal and policy responses remain inadequate, leaving many women vulnerable.
Housing disparities
Empowerment vs Commodification
The census indicates that most single women live in their own homes. This pattern is most prevalent in Karnali and Madhesh provinces. Around 38 percent of housing units occupied by single women are constructed with mud-bonded brick or stone foundations. These homes, especially in remote and mountainous regions, are highly vulnerable to natural disasters such as earthquakes and landslides. Provinces like Bagmati and Gandaki exhibit better housing standards, but rural regions such as Karnali continue to lag. In the mountain areas, poor infrastructure exposes single women to heightened risks, including limited protection against harsh weather conditions.
Sanitation and health gaps
Data suggest that there is also stark inequality between regions in terms of access to sanitation facilities. Taking an example of flush toilets access, in stark contrast to Bagmati and Manang, where over 95 percent of homes have flush toilets, only 13 percent of homes in Humla meet similar standards. Such gaps pose severe health risks associated with poor sanitation infrastructure such as waterborne diseases. Single women, particularly those living alone; face additional barriers in accessing healthcare, with many relying on underfunded and distant health posts.
Connectivity and access to technology
Connectivity, which is a critical factor for social and economic inclusion, remains uneven across the country, with access varying sharply, although data show that 70 percent of single-women households own smartphones. Bagmati Province, which benefits from urban infrastructure, leads in connectivity, whereas Karnali and Sudurpaschim report significant gaps, with nearly 10 percent of households lacking basic devices such as radios or mobile phones.
Single women in urban centers enjoy better access to technology, but the case is not the same for women in remote areas who are compelled to remain disconnected, limiting their opportunities for education, employment, and social interaction.
Energy and fuel usage
Over 55 percent of widowed households continue to rely on firewood for cooking, with this number rising in provinces like Karnali and Sudurpaschim. Only 39.8 percent of single-women households use LPG, a cleaner and more efficient fuel source. While LPG is the primary cooking fuel in the urban areas, the rural area relies heavily on firewood which contributes to indoor air pollution and associated health risks, particularly for older women.
Social and economic implications
The challenges faced by single women in Nepal go beyond economic hardships and limited educational opportunities. Available data highlights a broader societal issue, where these women encounter heightened social stigma, reduced economic independence, and limited access to healthcare. Widows, in particular, especially in regions like Madhesh and Karnali, often face societal exclusion and discrimination. This stigma further hinders their ability to access resources, education, and employment opportunities. Additionally, barriers to economic participation, such as low literacy rates and limited property ownership, make it difficult for many single women and widows to achieve financial stability, contributing to their ongoing vulnerability.
