Survivors' needs will be focused in transitional justice process: Home Minister Lekhak

Patan (Lalitpur), May 8:  Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak has echoed the need for prioritizing the concerns of survivors in resolving issues related to transitional justice.

Speaking at a discussion programme 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, the Minister stated that transitional justice is a top priority for both the Ministry and the federal government.

"Transitional justice is a deeply significant and sensitive issue. We have now finalized the relevant laws. Previously, legal gaps hindered efforts to address the concerns of survivors," he said. "Survivors of sexual violence must not be forced into arbitration. The government is fully committed to delivering justice to them and addressing their issues as a matter of urgency."

The Minister further added the recommendation committee is currently working on appointments for two transitional justice-related commissions. He highlighted the provision about the establishment of Survivors’ Coordination Unit in the newly amended Act, which aims to ensure the justice process is viewed through the lens of survivors. He stressed that transitional justice cannot be complete without their participation.

The Minister also reiterated Nepal’s commitment to implementing UN Security Council Resolutions 1325 and 1820, which focus on the protection and participation of conflict-affected women at all levels of governance.

"Nepal and its people suffered deeply during the conflict. We have yet to fully address the post-conflict issues.  But now, these issues will be dealt with utmost priority," he added.

He also commended the contributions of civil society organizations and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in advocating for the rights of conflict-affected people. 

Acting Home Ministry Secretary Jay Narayan Acharya said the government would formulate and implement sequential plans and policies to protect the rights of women affected by conflict. He emphasized the need for coordination and collaboration across all three tiers of government.

NHRC Secretary Murari Prasad Kharel urged the Home Ministry to support the effective implementation of Resolutions 1325 and 1820. He assured that the NHRC would continue working toward the repatriation and rehabilitation of conflict survivors.

Bina Kumari Bhattarai, Deputy Mayor of Thakurbaba Municipality, Bardiya, shared that the local government has prioritized capacity-building for employees and people's representatives, identifying community needs, and implementing programmess to address the concerns of survivors as part of enforcing Resolutions 1325 and 1820.

Gita Rasaili, Chair of the Conflict-Hit Women National Network, stressed the need for incorporating the presence of survivors in the implementation of the UN Resolutions. However, she also voiced concerns that effective service delivery to target groups is still lacking. (RSS)