Kathmandu: Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak has emphasized the importance of prioritizing survivors’ concerns in addressing transitional justice issues. Speaking at a discussion program on the progress of the second National Action Plan (2079 BS-2081/82 BS) regarding the implementation of UN Security Council Resolutions 1325 and 1820, Minister Lekhak highlighted transitional justice as a top priority for both the Ministry and the federal government.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the Minister pointed out the completion of relevant laws previously hindered by legal gaps that affected efforts to address survivors’ concerns. He stated that survivors of sexual violence should not be compelled into arbitration, and asserted the government’s commitment to delivering justice to them as a matter of urgency.
The Minister also mentioned that a recommendation committee is working on appointments for two commissions related to transitional justice. He highlighted the establishment of a Survivors’ Coordination Unit in the newly amended Act, aiming to ensure the justice process incorporates the survivors’ perspective. He stressed the necessity of their participation for a comprehensive approach to transitional justice.
Minister Lekhak reiterated Nepal’s dedication to implementing UN Security Council Resolutions 1325 and 1820, which focus on protecting and involving conflict-affected women at all governance levels. He acknowledged the deep suffering endured by Nepal and its people during the conflict and expressed the government’s commitment to addressing post-conflict issues as a priority.
Acting Home Ministry Secretary Jay Narayan Acharya announced plans for formulating and implementing policies to protect the rights of women affected by conflict, emphasizing the need for coordination across all government tiers.
NHRC Secretary Murari Prasad Kharel urged the Home Ministry to support the effective implementation of Resolutions 1325 and 1820, assuring that the NHRC will continue efforts toward the repatriation and rehabilitation of conflict survivors.
Bina Kumari Bhattarai, Deputy Mayor of Thakurbaba Municipality, Bardiya, noted the local government’s focus on capacity-building for employees and representatives, identifying community needs, and implementing programs to address survivors’ concerns as part of enforcing Resolutions 1325 and 1820.
Gita Rasaili, Chair of the Conflict-Hit Women National Network, emphasized the need for incorporating survivors’ presence in implementing the UN Resolutions, while also expressing concerns about the lack of effective service delivery to target groups.