About GMRL
The Governance and Media Research Lab (GMRL) is a research-oriented organization working at the intersection of governance, public policy, and media engagement. The Lab is dedicated to generating evidence-based knowledge, translating research into accessible and impactful media content, and influencing policy discourse through strategic communication.
GMRL’s core mission is to strengthen democratic governance by creating meaningful connections between researchers, media professionals, and policy actors. Through rigorous studies on critical social and governance issues, the organization facilitates dialogue with policymakers while using media platforms to amplify evidence, marginalized voices, and reform-oriented narratives.
Actively engaged at the policy level, GMRL works closely with parliamentarians, government institutions, development partners, and civil society organizations. By combining research, policy dialogue, and media production, the Lab contributes to informed decision-making and inclusive governance processes in Nepal.
Our Key Engagements
Policy Engagement
GMRL has played an active role in policy-level discussions with Members of Parliament and parliamentary bodies, offering research insights and facilitating dialogue on governance and accountability issues. In collaboration with UNDP, the Lab has supported policy discussions and knowledge exchange initiatives aimed at strengthening democratic institutions and promoting evidence-based policymaking.
Research and Media Work on Sanitation with WaterAid
In partnership with WaterAid, GMRL has worked extensively in the sanitation sector, focusing on research and media engagement related to inclusive and citywide sanitation. This collaboration emphasized translating technical research into media-friendly narratives, strengthening public discourse, and amplifying the voices of sanitation workers and affected communities to ensure more inclusive policy conversations.
Work on Menstrual Discrimination and Dignified Menstruation
GMRL has collaborated with the Global South Coalition for Dignified Menstruation and the Radha Paudel Foundation to address issues of menstrual discrimination and dignified menstruation. This work involved research, advocacy-oriented communication, and media content development aimed at challenging harmful social norms and influencing both policy frameworks and public understanding.
Research and Media Production on Transgender Men’s Issues
In collaboration with Unity for Change, GMRL conducted research and produced video programs highlighting the rights, lived experiences, and social challenges of transgender men. This initiative sought to generate evidence, increase visibility, and support inclusive policy and media narratives around gender diversity in Nepal.
Television and Radio Programs with CWIS Nepal
GMRL has also partnered with CWIS Nepal to produce television and radio programs that integrate research insights into broadcast media. These programs focused on governance, urban services, and inclusive sanitation, using mass media as a powerful tool to inform public debate and engage policymakers, practitioners, and the wider public.
Conclusion
Through its multidisciplinary approach—combining research, policy engagement, and media production—the Governance and Media Research Lab continues to play a vital role in shaping informed public discourse and strengthening inclusive governance in Nepal. By centering evidence and marginalized voices, GMRL remains committed to fostering accountable institutions and meaningful democratic participation.