Katmandu, Nepal: The “3rd International Indigenous Language Journalism Conference 2026” is scheduled to be held in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, from August 9 to 12, 2026. Preparations for this grand international event are in full swing, organized by the Federation of Nepalese Indigenous Nationalities Journalists (FoNIJ) in coordination with the Newa National Forum of Journalists.
The preliminary plans and event schedules were announced during a recent preparatory meeting held in Nayabazar, Kathmandu. At the meeting, FoNIJ General Secretary Samir Balami presented a detailed action plan for the upcoming conference.
Participation of Journalists from 40 Countries
The organizing committee has announced that journalists practicing indigenous language journalism from approximately 40 countries across the globe will participate in this year’s conference. The event will feature in-depth discussions on the current status, challenges, and the future roadmap of indigenous language journalism on a global scale.
A Grand Four-Day Event
The itinerary of this four-day international conference includes:
Panel Discussions & Paper Presentations: Featuring insights and research papers presented by global experts.
Cultural Procession: A vibrant showcase blending the diverse local cultures of Nepal with those of the participating nations.
Tourism & Traditional Cuisine: Alongside visits to various historical and tourist landmarks of Nepal, delegates will be treated to traditional Nepalese cuisines to promote local culture and heritage globally.
Key Objectives of the Conference
According to the organizers, the primary objective of this conference is to develop and professionalize indigenous language journalism. It also aims to advocate for the recognition and integration of mother-tongue journalism into government policies, while showcasing Nepal’s achievements in this sector to the world.
Furthermore, the conference is expected to significantly contribute to the preservation, study, and research of indigenous languages, scripts, cultures, traditions, and heritage.
Past Experience and Collaboration
Previously, the Newa National Forum of Journalists successfully hosted the first two editions of the International Indigenous Language Journalism Conference. Continuing this rich legacy, the SAARC Journalist Forum (SJF) and FoNIJ are actively collaborating for this year’s landmark event.
Leaders Present at the Preparatory Meeting
The crucial preparatory meeting in Nayabazar was attended by Nripendra Lal Shrestha, Sunil Maharjan, Surendra Bhakta Shrestha, KK Manandhar, Raju Napit, Prajit Shakya, and Tej Narayan Maharjan on behalf of the Newa National Forum of Journalists.
Representing FoNIJ were Lucky Chaudhary, Samir Balami, Arjun Bahadur Tamang, Prabin Shrestha, Pradeep Lekhi, Amir Lama, Raju Rajdev Bajracharya, and Prabin Kirati, alongside other central leaders of both organizations.
