UN Welcomes Nepal’s New Transitional Justice Law as Key Step Toward Accountability

The United Nations has praised the adoption of Nepal’s new transitional justice law, calling it a significant milestone in the country’s ongoing journey toward accountability and reconciliation. The law, formally titled the Investigation of Enforced Disappeared Persons, Truth, and Reconciliation Commission Act, was recently passed by Nepal’s House of Representatives and National Assembly.

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk stated on Thursday that the new legislation is crucial for addressing serious human rights violations committed by all parties during Nepal’s decade-long civil war. “Eighteen years since the end of the conflict, and after several previous attempts to finalize such legislation, victims of human rights violations are now closer to knowing the truth, accessing justice, and obtaining reparations,” Türk said in a statement from Geneva.

Türk also emphasized that his office is ready to assist Nepal in this critical phase of its peace process. He commended Nepal for becoming “a regional and global example of a successful peaceful transition towards democratic, constitutional, and federal governance.”

Highlighting the importance of transitional justice, Türk noted that it serves as a powerful tool to break cycles of violence and impunity. He also suggested that the new law offers a unique opportunity to address some of the deep-seated inequalities and discrimination that contributed to the conflict.

The bill, which originated in the House of Representatives, was passed by the House on August 14 and subsequently by the National Assembly on Thursday. It will now be sent to President Ram Chandra Poudel for authentication. Upon the President’s approval, the bill will become law and come into force, marking a crucial step in Nepal’s long path toward justice and reconciliation.