Ratify the Rome Statute

On the occasion of International Justice Day, commemorated globally on July 17th, the establishment of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court is remembered. On this significant day, the International Society for Social Justice (ISSJ) strongly calls upon political parties, members of parliament, and the government to deliver justice for victims by eradicating impunity. Despite eighteen years having passed since the Comprehensive Peace Agreement, the transitional justice process remains incomplete. In the context of Nepal, the imperative to end impunity is more urgent than ever.

The day serves to inspire every supporter of human rights and humanitarian law to remind the government of its international human rights commitments and to advocate for the ratification of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court. This international mechanism is crucial for prosecuting individuals involved in activities against human rights and humanity. On this occasion, concerns are also expressed regarding past efforts and future steps to seek justice for incidents of serious human rights violations.
The Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court was opened for accession on July 17, 1998. It has been ratified by 124 countries worldwide. In Asia, 19 countries including Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and the Maldives in South Asia have become parties to the Rome Statute.

In the context of the global periodic review of human rights, Nepal has disregarded suggestions from various countries to ratify the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court. We urge the Government of Nepal to promptly ratify the Rome Statute to address this issue.

 

Dr Kundan Aryal Chairperson
Dr Kundan Aryal
Chairperson