Eighteen Years of Peace Agreement: Renewed Hope for Transitional Justice After Legal Amendments

  November 20, 2024 By: INSEC

The Informal Sector Service Centre (INSEC) has stated that the authentication of the Bill to Amend the Enforced Disappearances Enquiry, Truth and Reconciliation Commission Act (Third Amendment) has regenerated hope regarding transitional justice. The bill received majority approval in the House of Representatives on August 14 and in the National Assembly on August 22, before the President certified it on August 29. On the 18th anniversary of the Peace Agreement, INSEC Chairperson Dr. Kundan Aryal issued a press release on November 20, stating that Nepal’s transitional justice process, which had been hindered for 18 years, has renewed hope.

The press release states, “Addressing human rights violations and holding those responsible accountable is the main goal of the transitional justice system. A thorough hearing of these violations will make the process smoother. Right now, the focus is on the recommendation committee formed by the Nepal government to select the commission’s officials. It is important to appoint officials who can support the peace process, rather than getting caught in political divisions. Additionally, the peace process of Nepal will be meaningful if it includes the prosecution of perpetrators through proper procedures, provides victims with compensation respectfully, and incorporates a pardon process with the victims’ consent, ensuring that their self-esteem is not harmed. Moreover, if lessons from the past are not learned and a clear path forward is not set, the issues of justice and reparation will remain unresolved. INSEC has started monitoring and raising awareness about this process.


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