Geneva: Nepal’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, emphasized the country’s proactive stance in promoting human rights at the 58th Session of the Human Rights Council (HRC) High-Level Segment at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland. Dr. Deuba highlighted Nepal’s ongoing efforts to fulfill its human rights obligations, including the preparation of its Sixth National Human Rights Action Plan.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Dr. Deuba asserted that Nepal has initiated the ratification process for the ILO Convention on Freedom of Association and recently presented its 7th periodic report to the CEDAW Committee. The country is also implementing recommendations from the third cycle of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR). She emphasized Nepal’s commitment to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the independence of the National Human Rights Commission, which has maintained an ‘A’ category accreditation since its inception.
Dr. Deuba noted the vibrant role of civil society, media, and human rights defenders in Nepal’s human rights landscape. She also highlighted the comprehensive scope of fundamental rights enshrined in Nepal’s Constitution, which includes economic, social, cultural, civil, and political rights, and allows the judiciary extraordinary jurisdiction in enforcing these rights.
The Foreign Minister pointed out the significant constitutional advancement guaranteeing one-third representation of women in federal and provincial parliaments, and forty percent at the local government level. This, she said, has increased access to justice through judicial committees led by elected deputy mayors, predominantly women. The inclusion of minority groups in political bodies has further strengthened human rights for all in Nepal.
Discussing Nepal’s peace process, Dr. Deuba remarked on its role in ending a decade-long conflict and its contribution to human rights and peace. She assured that the government remains committed to concluding transitional justice, having passed relevant laws in August 2024 with a victim-centric approach.
Dr. Deuba acknowledged new human rights challenges posed by climate change and digital technology. She announced Nepal’s commitment to climate justice and the upcoming Sagarmatha Sambad dialogue in Kathmandu, inviting attendees to discuss “Climate Change, Mountains, and the Future of Humanity.”
In her concluding remarks, Dr. Deuba announced Nepal’s candidacy for membership of the Human Rights Council for the 2027 to 2029 term, seeking support from the council members.