HURFON (current)

Human Rights Forum Nepal (HURFON) is a website presenting links to articles on Nepal's human rights issues as well as important background information. The link collection has been started in September 2016.

HURFON is a subsite of Nepal Research. Its name goes back to an organisation that had been founded in Germany in 1990 but that had to be dissolved some years later. Issues of the periodical of this earlier organisation that had been published under the name Nepal Forum have been archived on this website.

Nepal’s queer couples caught in red tape : Nearly two years after the Supreme Court allowed same-sex marriage registration, queer couples in the country still face discrimination and inconsistent enforcement, by Aarati Ray (kp 28/05/2025)

Government ‘boycotts’ human rights commission’s anniversary celebration : PM’s secretariat says Oli was not ready for the morning event. NHRC doesn’t buy the logic, by Binod Ghimire (kp 28/05/2025)

Child killers : The prevention of drowning deaths, the result of systemic inaction, must be a national priority (kp 28/05/2025)

High Court acquits former NC MP Aftab Alam (rep 28/05/2025) [???]

Ending caste discrimination: Can this be done in a decade?, by Simone Galimberti (ht 27/05/2025)

TRC faces backlash over public call for sexual violence complaints, by Bhasha Sharma (rep 26/05/2025)

Traffickers continue sending Nepali women to Gulf countries as domestic workers despite ban (rep 26/05/2025)

Former DSP exposes political pressure in human trafficking probe at TIA (kh 23/05/2025), Complaint filed against Home Minister over human trafficking allegations (kh 23/05/2025)

Insurgency-era victims turn down call to register new complaints : Say newly formed commissions didn’t consult them before putting out notice, warn civil commission could be set up, by Binod Ghimire (kp 22/05/2025)

SC takes firm stance on habeas corpus, detainees released (rep 22/05/2025)

MP urges immediate rescue of landslide-hit families in Humla (kh 19/05/2025)

Shaping clay, shaping lives : In Bhaktapur’s Pottery Square, women quietly transform a male-dominated craft—preserving tradition, and finding independence, by Reeva Khanal (kp 18/05/2025)

TJ faces turmoil as victims reject commission appointments, by Bhasha Sharma (rep 18/05/2025)

Transitional justice panels get leadership. Victims cry foul : Mahesh Thapa to head truth commission, Lila Devi Gadtaula disappearance commission, by Binod Ghimire (kp 15/05/2025), Victims first, always : If the new TJ appointees too fail, the country’s image and stability could both take a hit (kp 16/05/2025), Nepal conflict victims reject transitional justice appointments as arbitrary, insulting : They call for talks with government and parties to restart the appointment process anew (kp 17/05/2025)

Plight of Nepal’s Dalits (rep 15/05/2025)

Transitional justice process: Political interference in selections is jeopardizing the process (ae 14/05/2025)

Nepal overhauling outdated intellectual property law : A stronger law is in the works to tackle rampant imitation of popular brands and protect original creations, by Krishana Prasain (kp 13/05/2025), Whither IP rights? Even as intellectual property rights violations put off investors, they also often harm Nepali consumers (kp 14/05/2025)

Echoes of injustice in Soti incident : The violent death of six innocent men on the Bheri River was caused by caste hate, by Mitra Pariyar (kp 13/05/2025)

Corruption and inequality in Nepal: A growing crisis, by Kamal Raj Dhungel (ae 13/05/2025)

Panel forwards transitional justice picks. Victims decry : Former joint attorney general Thapa and ex-chief secretary Gadtaula nominated as chiefs of TRC, CIEDP, respectively, by Ghanashyam Khadka (kp 12/05/2025), [Justice is impossible to achieve without adequate participation of the victims' side and simultaneous exclusion of the perpetrators' side!], Will a 'Civil Commission' Shape  Nepal’s Stalled Transitional Justice System?, by Rajendra Senchurey (rep 12/05/2025), Recommendation committee proposes leadership for TRC and CIEDP despite victims’ objections, by Bhash Sharma (rep 12/05/2025) [What else? This is the interest of the ruling male high caste oligarchy!]

Nepali judiciary is not sensitised on caste-based discrimination : Just as in rape cases where the victims are the most crucial evidence, in caste-based discrimination too, the victims should be considered the most vital evidence, interview with Kunjani Pariyar Pyasi (kp 12/05/2025)

Lesbian couple went to register marriage. Law enforcement separated them : Case shows court’s ruling to allow same-sex marriage has yet to get social acceptance, by Aarati Ray (kp 12/05/2025)

Govt urged to rescue 469 Nepalis held hostage in Saudi Arabia (kh 11/05/2025)

40 days of rage as microfinance victims demand justice (Pics) (kh 08/05/2025)

Transitional justice selection to proceed ignoring victims’ calls : Despite assurances, no victim is on the shortlist. Panel cites missing documents, says ‘pocket picks’ rejected, by Binod Ghimire (kp 07/05/2025) [This will not change as long as this so-called peace process is controlled by representatives of the same forces that were responsible for the crimes committed during the Maoist insurgency!], Conflict victims' groups withdraw recommendations, Condemn politicized TJ process (rep 07/05/2025), TRC: Verdict on Search Committee dissolution to be issued on May 8 (rep), HoR session: Lawmakers urge govt action on pressing issues (kh 07/05/2025), Survivors' needs will be focused in transitional justice process: Home Minister Lekhak (rn 08/05/2025) [Without involving them in any way in this attempt at a solution? This is not only ridiculous, but also shows that the representatives of the perpetrators are not seeking justice for the victims at all!]

A roadmap to ending landlessness, by Jagat Deuja (rep 07/05/2025)

Status of press freedom in Nepal : Last year revealed cracks as laws intended for freedom turned into tools of control, by Umesh Pokharel (kp 05/05/2025)

Nepal: Political wrangling stalls TJ process, by Bhasha Sharma (rep 05/05/2025)

War victims ask rights body to recall member from selection panel : Unhappy with the shortlist of candidates for transitional justice commissions, they want to forestall nominations, by Binod Ghimire (kp 04/05/2025)) [There are representatives of the perpetrators, but not of the victims. And the ultimate decision is still exclusively in the hands of people who potentially have to bear responsibility!], Conflict survivor organisations call for appointing officials in the TJ bodies acceptable to the victims (rn 04/05/2025), PM Oli asserts no forgiveness for conflict-era rape cases (kh 04/05/2025)

Safeguarding Press Freedom with Urgency and Conviction (rep 04/05/2025)

The high cost of studying abroad: How many more must die before we listen?, by Chandra K Panjiyar (rep 04/05/2025)

A system breaking down : The ones responsible for violating the principles of the rule of law are those obliged to uphold it, by Ajaya Bhadra Khanal (kp 04/05/2025)

Nepal’s billion-dollar smog : Despite the escalating costs, Nepal’s approach to air pollution remains underpowered, by Yanki Ukyab (kp 04/05/2025)

Press freedom in Nepal deteriorates: 88 journalists affected, two killed in line of duty (rep 03/05/2025)

Victims reject transitional justice shortlist, demand new selection panel : 36 victims’ groups slam list for lack of transparency, clear criteria, and right candidates, by Binod Ghimire (kp 02/05/2025)

97 Percent of Women in Bajhang and Bajura Break Free from Chhaupadi Practice (rep 02/05/2025), Community campaign helps reduce menstrual discrimination, by Pabitra Sunar (rep 02/05/2025)

Budget cap threatens years of Nepal’s healthcare gains, officials warn : Cuts may jeopardise major programmes on maternal and child health, immunisation, nutrition, HIV, TB, mental health, and epidemic control, among others (kp 02/05/2025)

29% of firms in Nepal violate minimum wage rule of Rs 17,300 a month: GEFONT (rep 02/05/2025)

Rising Threats, Deepening Impunity: Media Action Nepal’s report warns of crisis in Nepali media (rep 02/05/2025) [see report], NHRC urges protection of journalists and press freedom (kh 03/05/2025)

Achham shamans join push to stop forcing women into huts during periods : Officials have engaged shamans to help end Chhaupadi tradition and related gender-based superstitions, by Menuka Dhungana (kp 01/05/2025)

Amnesty International flags Nepal’s declining human rights amid global trends of repression, impunity : Report calls out government for using excessive force to suppress peaceful protests, citing arbitrary arrests, detentions, and violence (kp 01/05/2025) [see report chapter on Nepal 2024]

Conflict victims skeptical, call for a new public selection process (rep 01/05/2025), Make TRC Effective In Its New Setup, by Mukti Rijal (rn 01/05/2025)

Labor Day and women’s struggle for fair wages, by Shreya Shrestha (ae 01/05/2025)

Abandoned Abroad: Who Fights for Nepali Workers in Foreign Jails?, by Khastila Shreem Rizal (rep 01/05/2025)

Ensure Physical Safety Of Journalists, by Namrata Sharma (rn 30/04/2025)

Fighting Human Trafficking, by Krishna Raman Adhikari (rn 30/04/2025

Breaking Vicious Cycle Of Street Life, by Uttam Maharjan (rn 29/04/2025)

Women’s service organization urges inclusive reforms in Political Parties Act (kh 29/04/2025) [Discrimination against women can already be found in serious ways in the constitution, for example with regard to citizenship regulations. The provisions of the constitution and subordinate laws on the appropriate inclusion of all social groups are generally disregarded by politicians! The Political Parties Act further strengthens the authoritarian exercise of power by top politicians.]

Calls grow for proper vetting of transitional justice candidates : As panel shortlists 34 individuals for 10 positions, conflict victims and rights groups warn of partisan influence, by Binod Ghimire (kp 28/04/2025)

Injured Journalist Karki's vision improves, uncertainty over complete recovery (rep 28/04/2025) [A crime against a journalist, committed by the police on the orders of the Oli government?]

Girls in Matihani learn Mithila painting to fight child marriage and foster self-reliance (kh 27/02/2025)

Journalist summoned after report on NC leader’s son’s involvement in Bhatbhateni looting (kh 26/04/2025)

Children demand child-centered climate change policies (rep 24/04/2025)

Enact Law On The Right To Be Forgotten, by Prabin Kumar Yadav (rn 24/04/2025)

Poverty forces father to chain disabled teen at home : The 16-year-old boy’s condition has worsened in lack of treatment. Activists call for government help, by Rakesh Nepali (kp 24/04/2025)

‘Disheartening’: Cooperatives victims say Nepali Congress has let them down : The party had obstructed Parliament last year demanding justice for cooperative victims (kp 24/04/2025)

It’s time to abolish child marriage, by Chanda Chaudhary (ae 22/04/2025)

Never complete : The under-construction highways compromise people’s right to safe and affordable travel (kp 22/04/2025)

Revisiting secularism is not off the table in Congress, interview with Finance Minister Prakash Sharan Mahat (kp 21/04/2025) [What the 2015 constitution calls secularism is merely the freedom of people to practise their ancestral religion, but not a strict separation of state and religion. The problem lies in the lack of social inclusion. A small minority of male Khas Arya dominates politics and all areas of public life and identifies the nation with its own culture and religion. This is an affront to the ethnic and cultural diversity of Nepalese society.]

110 seek positions in transitional justice commissions : Judges, rights activists and victims are among applicants, by Binod Ghimire (kp 21/04/2025)

Provincial police office finally takes up Anandi Devi Sadaya death case : Siraha police had allegedly sided with accused, put pressure on victim’s family to settle, by Binay Aazad (kp 21/04/2025)

Dalit community leaders stage sit-in remanding revival of upliftment committees (kh 20/04/2025)

Illegal female infanticide on rise in Kalikot, by Lalit Bista (rep 19/04/2025) [This is also a consequence of the arch-patriarchal mindset, especially of the ruling minority elite, which categorises women as inferior.]

Siblings denied citizenship file contempt case, demand justice in mother’s name (kh 19/04/2025) [Nepal's citizenship law is extremely discriminatory against women. Only men have an unrestricted right, women are only tolerated under certain circumstances. Children of a male Nepali have an automatic right to Nepalese citizenship. Children of Nepali women only have this right if the father is/was also a proven Nepali citizen. Foreign husbands of Nepali women are categorised like all foreigners, while wives of Nepali men have little problems. Long live the patriarchy!]

UN experts call for release of long-held political prisoners in Bhutan : They express deep concern at reports of detainees being severely tortured, both to extract confessions and to punish them (kp 18/04/2025) [This is called Gross National Happiness!]

Supreme Court stays deportation of four Bhutanese refugees : Nepali authorities arrested three of them from Beldangi refugee camp and the fourth one from Bahundangi last month, by Parbat Portel (kp 18/04/2025)

APF ‘brutality’ leaves deep scars on Pathibhara trail traders (rep 17/04/2025)

Patan High Court verdict: Traffic police cannot seize vehicle keys (rep 17/04/2025)

NHRC urges swift resolution of teachers’ protest : Following an on-site observation of the protests, the NHRC issued a press release on Tuesday urging the government to respond to the teachers’ demands without delay (kp 16/04/2025)

Three generations without citizenship in Saptari : Statelessness continues to marginalise an entire Dalit family, leaving them without access to education, healthcare, or state recognition, by Bidyanand Ram (kp 15/04/2025)

Ambedkarism with a Nepali flavour : Hindu religious reformation is a must, as conversion doesn’t necessarily liberate Dalits, by Mitra Pariyar (kp 15/04/2025)

The Increased Vulnerability of Survivors: The Struggle of Recounting Trauma, by Nisha Shrestha (rep 13/04/2025)

The Last Opportunity: The Imperative for Peace and Transitional Justice in Nepal : More than 63,000 complaints remain unopened and unprocessed, with substantial evidence still requiring verification and application, by Surya Dhungel (sp 11/04/2025)

As Bhutan disowns, Nepal in a fix over 4 US-deported refugees : Nepal’s home ministry asks foreign ministry to take up the issue with Thimphu through diplomatic channels, by Anil Giri (kp 11/04/2025)

Government asked to respond to the plight of victims of Nepal conflict-era sexual violence : Twelve organisations working on human rights have pointed out flaws in the transitional justice process and called for making it gender-friendly (kp 05/04/2025)

Kathmandu’s air quality ‘unhealthy’ as it ranks most polluted city : Public advised to stay indoors (kh 05/04/2025)

Rural Nepalis fight cable car project on sacred himalayan mountain, by Sunita Neupane (rep 05/04/2025)

NHRC’s plan to form a judge-headed panel to probe Tinkune riots hits a snag : All the high court judges the rights watchdog approached to lead the panel turn down the proposal (kp 04/04/2025)

Sexual violence survivors seek redress with confidentiality (rep 03/04/2025)

‘Second-class’ victims : The long indifference to the plight of victims of conflict-related sexual violence is unjustifiable (kp 01/04/2025) [In any case, women are considered second class citizens at best, again with an internal differentiation according to caste, ethnicity, religion and region!]

Why Dalits hate kingship : The only alternative to the republic is a more responsible one free from Brahmanism, by Mitra Pariyar (kp 01/04/2025) [The current male Bahunbad does not mean democracy! It's an oligarchy!]

New panel to begin fresh selection for transitional justice officials : Congress, UML and Maoist party chiefs pledge to ensure justice to conflict victims (kp 31/03/2025)

Conflict-era victims of sexual violence still ignored : They have not been listed as recipients of interim relief available to victims of other insurgency-era crimes, by Binod Ghimire (kp 30/03/2025)

Water crisis makes life difficult for Musahars in Saptari : As many as 90 impoverished Dalit families rely on a single tube well in the settlement, by Bidyanand Ram (kp 30/03/2025) [Such discrimination against Dalits may be typical of a Hindu monarchy wished back by a small minority, but it does not fit a democratic republic at all! The perpetuation of casteism and social non-inclusion are among the major failures of political parties and their leaders! They would definitely not be eradicated with a return to Hindu monarchy!]

Towards A Gender Equal World, by Devendra Gautam (rn 28/03/2025)

Ensure Constitutional Rights Of Dalits, by Prabin Kumar Yadav (rn) (rn 28/03/2025)

No relief : The politicisation of reparations and their selective nature does grave injustice to victims (kp 28/03/2025)

Nepal human rights body set to retain its ‘A’ global ranking : Global alliance urges rights watchdog to align with global standards, ensure one-third commissioners are women, by Binod Ghimire (kp 27/03/2025)

Conflict victims seek reparations based on need, consultations : Allegations of political favouritism rise as arbitrary handouts disappoint Nepal conflict victims, by Binod Ghimire (kp 26/03/2025)

Impure justice : Removal of a Dalit family for a religious rite in Siraha is one of innumerable cases of discrimination (kp 25/03/2025)

Govt moves forward with formation of committee for Truth and Reconciliation Commission (kh 24/03/2025) [After six months and still without the participation of the victims' side: What's the point? The committee should be independent of possible perpetrators!], Government revives Mishra-led committee to recommend officials for two TJ commissions : A Cabinet meeting on Monday evening makes the decision following agreement among top three parties (kp 25/03/2025) [Sounds like yet another mumbo-jumbo by the top politicians of three parties!]

Dalit family files complaint against eviction in Siraha : Family accused Mahayagya organisers of displacing them stating that Dalits’ presence near the site would make it impure, by Binay Aazad (kp 23/03/2025)

Jajarkot earthquake reconstruction delayed due to budget, manpower shortages : Victims have spent a second winter in temporary shelters and now face another monsoon under leaking roofs, by Krishna Prasad Gautam (kp 23/03/2025)

Say No to Racial, Caste Discrimination (rep 22/03/2025)

Detainees in dire straits in Bhutan’s prisons : UN experts find political prisoners held illegally in Bhutan, call for immediate release (nt 21/03/2025)

Nepalis in ‘scam camps’ escape to tell the tale : Trafficked and forced by the Chinese mafia in Burma to defraud victims online, by Man Bahadur Basnet (nt 21/03/2025)

Long wait for the truth : Victims of human rights violations, fed up with empty promises, are demanding tangible results, by Suman Adhikari (kp 21/03/2025)

Dalit activists stage demonstration in Capital, by Dipesh Darsandhari (rep 21/03/2025)

Dalit family displaced for Mahayagya in Siraha, rights activists demand justice (kh 20/03/2025), Mahayagya controversy: Siraha’s CDO transferred to Home Ministry (kh 21/03/2025) [Caste discrimination, by the minority of the so-called high Hindu castes is still firmly anchored in thought and action!], Rights body, MPs take up case of Dalit home demolition : Three people involved abscond. Lawmakers demand House probe as human rights commission launches investigation, by Binay Aazad (kp 21/03/2025), Lawmakers draw govt’s attention over demolition of Dalit's house for Mahayagya (rep 21/03/2025), Two, including rural municipality chair, in police custody (kh 22/03/2025)

18 years since Gaur Massacre: Hope amid the specter of uncertainty, by Madan Thakur (rep 20/03/2025)

Prime minister’s transitional justice advisor intensifies meetings to break deadlock : Oli and Deuba eye Om Prakash Mishra or Hari Krishna Karki to lead nomination panel on transitional justice appointments, Dahal still undecided (kp 20/03/2025) [There will never be justice for the victims as long as those potentially responsible have a decisive say!]

PAC on pause : Dysfunctionality of bodies to hold state officials accountable is a threat to the republic (kp 20/03/2025)

Laying Down a Heavy Burden : 794 women seek justice for conflict-era sexual violence, by Guna Raj Luitel (rep 19/03/2025)

UNESCO slams social media bill for overreach, ambiguity : The UN body has raised red flags over arbitrary content restrictions, lack of independent regulation, and called for revision (kp 19/03/2025)

Govt, private sector and civil society join hands to promote human rights in business (rep 19/03/2025)

Implementation of rights body’s recommendations hits historic low : Commission issued 444 directives in four years. Not one has been fully implemented, by Binod Ghimire (kp 17/03/2025) [Do we need any further proof that KP Oli and his government have no interest whatsoever in upholding human rights and the rule of law?]

Female land ownership rises in urban areas, by Bhuwan Sharma (rep 16/03/2025)

NHRC faces challenge in staff retention : Most employees are dissatisfied with the perks they receive, by Binod Ghimire (kp 16/03/2025)

A case for sexual and reproductive health : Although Nepal has committed to protecting women, many lack access to SRH rights, by Ojaswi KC (kp 16/03/2025)

RPP leader arrested for burning Prachanda’s photo (kh 16/03/2025) [The RPP's political stance is completely misguided, but is it really a crime that justifies arrest if someone burns the photo of the otherwise dysfunctional leader of another political party?], Prachanda opposes arrest over photo burning, says protests are part of democracy (kh 16/03/2025), RPP youth leader who burned the photo of Maoist leader Dahal released (rep 17/03/2025)

Compensate Victims Of Miscarriage Of Justice, by Baliram Kumar Chauhan (rn 14/03/2025)

Consumer courts necessary across the country, by Jivesh Jha (ae 13/03/2025), A Milestone for Consumer Rights (rep 14/03/2025)

Sobita Gautam criticizes Oli-led govt for being ‘control-oriented’ (kh 12/03/2025) [!!]

Rape of 14-year-old girl revealed only after she gave birth : The 58-year-old alleged perpetrator, a distant relative of the victim, is now in police custody, by Menuka Dhungana (kp 11/03/2025)

Amid reform delays, rights body braces for status review : NHRC member Surya Dhungel claims they are in a stronger position to defend the commission’s ‘A’ status, by Binod Ghimire (kp 10/03/2025)

An analysis of social media bill, by Krishna Raman Adhikari (ae 10/03/2025)

Social media bill needs to be revised to uphold global human rights principles : Freedom of expression protects all forms of information, regardless of the truth or falsehood of the content, interview with  Ana Cristina Ruelas, Senior Programme Specialist on Freedom of Expression at UNESCO (kp 10/03/2025)

Presumption of Guilt Until Proven Innocent: The Erosion of a Fundamental Right in Nepal, by Ankit Raj Pandey (rep 10/03/2025)

Work Towards Empowering Women, by Ballav Dahal (rn 10/03/2025)

Enforcement of domestic workers’ rights: Out of the shadows to the light, by Manish Lamichhane (ae 10/03/2025)

Warrants issued against 10 activists supporting the Mukkumlung movement in Taplejung (kh 07/03/2025)

Machhapuchhre Bank freezes account of activist Saru Limbu over Pathibhara cable car protest (kh 07/03/2025) [An incredibly authoritarian approach against a person who is exercising her right to freedom of expression!]

Bridging the Gender Equality Gap: A Call for Action in Nepal, by Gita Subedi (kh 04/03/2025)

Women face intimidation and violence amid Pathibhara protests (kh 04/03/2025)

Experts stress menstruation as a public health and gender discrimination issue, by Pabitra Sunar (rep 04/03/2025)

Govt indifferent to Transitional Justice implementation (rep 03/03/2025)

The Civic Space Severely Under Threat : The use of internet services and social media accounts is inevitable for individuals in a democratic world, by Charan Prasai (rep 02/03/2025)

Need for the Right to Anonymity, by Bivek Chaudhary (kh 02/03/2025)

Rastriya Mukti Party demands justice for Rinku Kumari Sada (kh 01/03/2025)

Experts call for revisions in Social Media Bill (kh 01/03/2025)

Enslaved Nepali migrant worker rebuilds her life : “No one knows what I had been through in Lebanon. The troubles are mine to keep.”, by Sajita Lama (nt 28/02/2025)

Data shows low participation of Dalit women in decision-making levels (kh 28/02/2025)

Human rights body to recommend revisions to Social Media Bill : Social media needs regulation, not control, NHRC chair Magar says, at an interaction held to discuss proposed legal provisions (kp 28/02/2025)

Familiar faces, unfamiliar fear: Rape survivors speak out, by Saskanda Khadka (rep 27/02/2025)

Nepal seeks support for UN Human Rights Council membership (kh 27/02/2025) [A country with so many human rights shortcomings of its own like Nepal is not really qualified for membership in the UN Human Rights Council!]

Impoverished family seeks justice after 12-year-old daughter raped and impregnated by relative : Legal and medical barriers prevent abortion as the victim, who is still unaware of her pregnancy, has already reached 30 weeks, by Menuka Dhungana (kp 26/02/2025)

Four people arrested for posting statuses to protest PM’s program (rep 25/02/2025) [The basic democratic right to freedom of expression obviously does not apply when his majesty, Mr Oli, is criticised!]

Protect Essence of Free Speech (rep 25/02/2025)

Nepali Army cites TRC in Maina Sunuwar case (ae 25/02/2025)

Nepal reaffirms commitment to human rights at UN Human Rights Council : Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba highlights Nepal’s democratic progress, transitional justice, and climate concerns (kp 25/02/2025)) [But the reality looks different!]

KMC rescues 73 at-risk children (kh 25/02/2025)

KMC submits report on minor held against her will to NHRC (kh 24/02/2025)

Social Media Bill: A direct attack on the right to anonymity?, by Pratikshya Aganja (ae 24/02/2025)

FNJ decries manhandling and unnecessary pressure on journalists (rep 22/02/2025)

Transitional justice in limbo with process paused for two months : There seems to be no urgency in appointing commissioners even as conflict victims’ quest for justice drags on for years. Victims plan to hit the streets demanding a new committee (kp 21/02/2025) [As often mentioned on this website: Those who were once responsible are in leading positions and have no interest in justice for the victims!]

1,081 human rights violations recorded in Sudurpaschim Province in 2024 (kh 20/02/2025)

Government can enforce law to regulate free speech, top court rules : Constitutional Bench says that freedom of opinion and expression, despite being fundamental, is not absolute, by Binod Ghimire (kp 19/02/23025)

Devi Sunar asks UN to halt support to Army until daughter gets justice : Maina Sunar was tortured to death by Army soldiers 21 years ago over alleged Maoist ties, by Binod Ghimire (kp 19/02/2025)

Shandar Mo:Mo tragedy sheds light on Nepal’s poor work culture, by Pawan Mudbhari (kh 19/02/2025)

Don’t exonerate them : The home minister and the IGP must resign if they have abused power in the Sarlahi case, by Mitra Pariyar (kp 18/02/2025)

'Effective enforcement of law must to end child marriage', by Uma Sharma (rn 18/02/2025)

Noise, dust and fear. Bethanchok battles crusher plants : Unregulated stone quarries in Bethanchok and Panauti in Kavrepalanchok have put schools, homes, and lives at risk. Residents call for urgent action, by Jyoti Shrestha (kp 18/02/2025)

Limited slots at government daycare centres leave working mothers without support : The daycare at Singha Durbar prioritises permanent staff, leaving contractual civil servant mums at a disadvantage, by Aarati Ray (kp 16/02/2025)

Ban on female migrant workers to be lifted : Nepal must recognise and protect its undocumented female domestics in West Asia while legalising migration, by Ayushman Bhagat and Sunita Mainali (nt 14/02/2025)

Teacher accused of inflicting brutal punishment : Four children were allegedly hit with a heated metal spatula by a teacher at a Bhimad-based school. Teacher arrested and presented at court, by Samjhana Rasaili (kp 13/02/2025), Teacher arrested for scalding students with hot spatula in Tanahun (rep 13/02/2025)

Falling short : Even as women continue to suffer from violence, justice remains elusive (kp 12/02/2025)

Mayor Balen apologizes after child abuse case against UML lawmaker fails to proceed (rep 11/02/2025)

Protecting The Rights Of Consumers, by Uttam Maharjan (rn 11/02/2025)

No objection from opposition parties as government introduces Social Media Bill in Parliament : While the bill is widely criticised, including by leaders from ruling parties, opposition lawmakers didn’t register any rejection proposal (kp 10/02/2025) [?????]

TI Nepal raises concern over ordinances (kh 10/02/2025)

Malnutrition continues to afflict children in Nepal’s food basket : In Madhesh Province, babies suffer mainly due to poverty and lack of awareness, by Shankar Acharya (kp 09/02/2025)

Do not evict landless squatters, commission tells governments : Land problem resolution panel says removing them without proper arrangements breaches their constitutional rights (kp 09/02/2025)

Women Commission’s helpline struggles to meet demand amid rising cases : Survivors of gender-based violence in Nepal often face an uphill battle navigating the country’s complex support system, by Aarati Ray (kp 08/02/2025)

Int’l Human Rights Organizations urge Nepal to suspend Pathibhara Cable Car project (kh 08/02/2025)

Revisiting Transitional Justice (Reflections In The Shadow Of History), by Surya Dhungel (sp 07/02/2025), Lingering Peace Accord And Peacebuilding In Nepal, by Govind Prasad Thapa (sp 07/02/2025), Transitioning To Stalled Transitional Justice Process, by Shobhakar Budhathoki (sp 07/02/2025)

The Hidden Plight: Children In Agriculture And The Looming Shadow Of Hazardous Labor, by Suva BC (sp 07/02/2025)

No comment : The Nepal government is once more trying to suppress freedom of expression in instalments, and activists are crying foul, by Shristi Karki (nt 07/02/2025)

Artificial censorship : Air-brushing on DeepSeek is not that different from other models, but what does it mean for free expression?, by Voishad Raj Onta (nt 07/02/2025)

Divorce cases spike in Surkhet and other Karnali Province districts : Most divorce cases filed by women cite domestic violence as the main reason, by Jyotee Katuwal (kp 07/02/2025)

Mapping a child marriage-free future : The cost of delay in its eradication is measured in stolen childhoods and shattered futures, by Bhuwan Ribhu (kp 06/02/2025)

Nepali CSO submits shadow report before CEDAW Committee (rn 05/02/2025)

Experts highlight pressing issues of Nepal’s queer community, by Aarati Ray (kp 04/02/2025)

Collective failure : A troubling lack of consent awareness among Nepali boys points to a deeply flawed education system (kp 04/02/2025) [The reasons lie deeper. They are closely related to the patriarchal society and the extremely inferior position of women in the Hindu social hierarchy, which are also reflected in the current constitution and subordinate laws!]

Stricter rules, hefty fines and potential jail time, by Aishwarya Koirala (ae 03/02/2025)

SC tells govt: Protect citizens’ information (rep 02/02/2025)

Resolution motion on dignified menstruation registered in NA (kh 01/02/2025)

Khanikhola families reeling in the cold under tents for four months (kh 01/02/2025)

18 years on, Nepal insurgency victims are in continued hardships, new study says : Education, healthcare, and social support remain out of reach for those affected by the Maoist conflict, ICJ survey finds (kp 31/01/2025)

Silencing the critics : The social media bill must be revised through the broadest possible consultations (kp 31/01/2025)

Child marriage in Nepal: Challenges and opportunities, by Krishna Raman Adhikari (ht 31/01/2025), Urge to maintain legal age for marriage at 20 (rn 01/02/2025)

Resistance against social media bill continues to build : Free speech advocates say social media content may need regulation but bill seeks to criminalise minor offences too (kp 30/01/2025)

Flood victims trapped in tarp shelters since September : Several families in Chanaute village of Kavrepalanchok are left without help as local government passes the buck on resettlement to federal government, by Jyoti Shrestha (kp 30/01/2025) [A case of failure to provide assistance! But this is also a consequence of the Oli government's and the national party leaders' refusal to implement the federal state with clearly delineated responsibilities and means!]

From Intimidation to Impunity: Rising Threats against Media in Nepal. Report by Media Action Nepal, 1 May 2025

Nepal 2024. From the Amnesty International Report 2024/25. 29 April 2025

Challenges Persist on Nepal's Press Freedom : 'Year of inaction' on law and policy for free press, report by Freedom Forum, Kathmandu, 3 May 2024

Nepal 2023 Human Rights Report, by US Department of State, 25 March 2024

“No-one cares”: Descent-based discrimination against Dalits in Nepal, report by Amnesty International 2024

Nepal events of 2024. World Report 2024, pp. 449-454, by Human Rights Watch

Nepal Events of 2023, HRW world-report 2024, 12/01/2024

Note of Appreciation and Concern to the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. Kathmandu, 31 October 2023

Saudi Arabia: Migrants workers who toiled in Amazon warehouses were deceived and exploited, by Amnesty International, 10 October 2023

2022 Report on International Religious Freedom: Nepal, by US Department of State, 15 May 2023

Amnesty International Report 2022/23, Nepal, March 2023)

2022 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices: Nepal, by US Department of State, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor, March 2023

South Asia State of Minorities Report 2022 : Weakening Human Rights Commitments
and Its Impact on Minorities. The South Asia Collective, February 2023

Nepal’s Social Protection System Reinforces Inequality: Expand the Child Grant; Include Informal Workers, by HRW, 1 February 2023

Media, Elections and Human Rights : A Study on Media Coverage of Elections from Human Rights Perspectives, by Media Action Nepal, 2023

Nepal: Events of 2022, HRW World Report 2023

GLOBAL ALLIANCE OF NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS INSTITUTIONS (GANHRI). Report and Recommendations of the Session of the Sub-Committee on Accreditation (SCA)
Geneva, 03 - 07 October 2022

State of Gender Equality and Climate Change in South Asia and the Hindu Kush Himalaya, by ICIMOD et al., 29 September 2022

What German Football Can Do to Remedy Abuses in Qatar : Football Association Pledges to Press FIFA to Compensate Migrant Workers, by David Fischer, HRW (12 August 2022)

Nepal: Amend Transitional Justice Bill : New Draft Falls Short of Promised Reforms to Protect Victims’ Rights. Statement by AI, HRW, ICG and TRIAL, 22 July 2022

Custodial deaths in Nepal : Towards a Framework for
Investigation and Prevention, by Advocacy Forum-Nepal. Kathmandu, 26 June 2022

From Exclusion to Inclusion : Crafting a New Legal Regime in Nepal, by Bipin Adhikari et al. Kathmandu: Social Science Baha 2022

2021 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices: Nepal. US Department of State, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor, 12 April 2022

The State of the World's Human Rights. Amnesty International’s Annual Report 2021/22, Nepal chapter, March 2022

World Bank. Women, business and the law 2022. Nepal data.

World Report 2022 - Nepal chapter, by Human Rights Watch

Gender Sensitivity in Nepali Media, report by Media Action Nepal, 2022

World Justice Project: Rule of Law Index, Nepal 2021

2020 Civil Society Organization Sustainability Indey for Asia, by USAID, November 2021 (Nepal, pp. 38ff)

Media in Nepal : Safety of Journalists, Sustainability and Gender Inclusiveness, report by Media Action Nepal, 2021

Misleading News in Media : A study of newspapers and online news portals of Nepal, report by Media Action Nepal, 2021

Code of Conduct : Improving conflict sensitive reporting & journalist safety in South Asia, report by Media Action Nepal, 2021

Vulnerability to Human Trafficking in Nepal : From enhanced regional connectivity. World Bank Group, December 2021

COVID-19 pandemic worsens disparities in young children’s development and learning in Nepal : One out of five children developmentally off track, press release bi UNICEF, 19 December 2021 [see also Child and Family Tracker, ECDI Survey, UNICEF, August 2021]

Impacts of protecting life in global health assistance policy in Nepal. Report by CREJHPA, September 2021

Unprepared and Unlawful: Nepal’s Continued Failure to realize the right to health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Briefing paper by International Commission of Jurists, 13 September 2021

Nepal Multidimensional Poverty Index 2021, by NPC et al., 18 August 2021

Violations in the name of conservation : "What crime had I committed by putting my feet on the Land that I own?" Amnesty International, 9 August 2021

Challenges for Dalits in South Asia’s Legal Community. Chapter I: Dalit Justice Defenders in Nepal, by American Bar Association - Center for Human Rights (18/06/2021)

Nepal: "Struggling to breathe".  The second wave of Covid-19 in Nepal, by Amnesty International (14/06/2021)

HRW report “I Must Work to Eat” - Covid-19, Poverty, and Child labor in Ghana, Nepal, and Uganda, by Human Rights Watch (26/05/2021)

South Asia: Urgent action needed to combat deadly COVID-19 surge across region (Amnesty International 13/05/2021)

Youth Anxiety, Aspiration, and Activism: Survey Report, by Niti Foundation and ILO, April 2021

Nepal Child Labour Report 2021, by International Labour Organisation and Central Bureau of Statistics, Nepal

Nepal 2020. Excerpt from Amnesty International Report 2020/21 (07/04/021)

2020 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices: Nepal. US Department of State, 30 March 2021

Nepal: Human Rights Commission’s Integrity in Jeopardy : Lack of Transparency in Appointments Undermine Effectiveness, Public Confidence, common statement by Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch and International Commission of Jurists, 1 March 2021

World Report 2021 : Nepal - Events of 2020, by Human Rights Watch, January 2021

Report on Employment Relationship Survey in Nepal. UNICEF, January 2021

Nepal Human Development Report 2020, UNDP and NPC, 13/12/2020

The Government of Nepal has been using the Covid-19 Pandemic to Exercise Control, to Commit Human Rights Violations and to Deny Justice to Victims of Human Rights Abuses, by AHRC, 09/12/2020

No Law, No Justice, No State for Victims : The Culture of Impunity in Post-Conflict Nepal. Report by Human Rights Watch. 20/11/2020

Nepal : Justice stalled for conflict victims. Amnesty International submission for the UN universal periodic review, 37th session of the UPR working group, January 2021 (Amnesty International 23/10/2020)

आयोगको २० वर्ष आयोगका सिफारिशहरु र कार्यान्वयन अवस्था (२०५७ जेठ–२०७७ असार), National Human Rights Commission, 15/10/2020

Child & Family Tracker: Tracking the Socio-Economic Impact of COVID-19 on Children and Families in Nepal. Baseline Findings, by UNICEF Nepal and Sharecast, August 2020 (Powerpoint presentation)

Costing Study on Early Childhood Education and
Development (ECED) in Nepal: A Case for Investment in ECED, by UNICEF Nepal and The World Bank, 2020

Human Rights and the Rule of Law in a Federal Nepal: Recommendations from an ICJ High-Level Mission, by ICJ: Geneva, July 2020

Nepal’s Universal Periodic Review: Human Rights Review Should Address Broken Commitments, Impunity, by Human Rights Watch, 16/07/2020), see submission report by HRW (15/07/2020)

Lawyers at risk: Law Society submits joint UPR report on Nepal, by The Law Society of England and Wales, 13 July 2020 (see also factsheet and submission)

2019 Trafficking in Persons Report: Nepal, by US Department of State

2019 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices, by US Department of State, 11 March 2020

Rule of Law Index Nepal 2020, by World Justice Project, 11 March 2020

Nepal 2019. In: Human Rights in Asia-Pacific. Review of 2019. Amnesty International, 29 January 2020

Nepal: Recent Steps Undermine Transitional Justice, by ICJ, Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch and TRIAL International, 25 January 2020

Nepal: Events of 2019, by Human Rights Watch, January 2020, pp. 418-422

Lawyers’ Association for Human Rights of Nepalese Indigenous Peoples (LAHURNIP)

Human Development Report 2019: Inequalities in Human Development in the 21stCentury. Briefing note for countries on the 2019 Human Development Report: Nepal. New York: UNDP 2019

Nepal: 13 Years On, No Justice for Conflict Victims. Joint statement by ICJ, Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch (HRW) and TRIAL International, 25 November 2019

Nepal: New NGO Law Should Protect Rights
Government’s Recent Moves Have Restricted Activists, by Human Rughts Watch, 14 November 2019

Nepal: Release Report on 2015 Protest Violence: Suppressing Lal Commission Findings Denies Justice to Terai Victims, by Human Rights Watch, 1 October 2019

All work, no pay: The struggle of Qatar's migrant workers for justice, Amnesty International, 19 September 2019

Torture and forced child labour: UN experts find Nepal violated human rights, by OHCHR 27/08/2019,  including full text of the UN document]

On the Occasion of International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, by Advocacy Forum - Nepal, 26 June 2019

2019 Trafficking in Person Report: Nepal. by US Department of State, June 20, 2019

Regressive Laws, Mounting Violations, report by Freedom Forum, 3 May 2019

The Legal Stranglehold, by International Federation of Journalists, 3 May 2019

Nepal: To End Hunger, Strengthen and Implement Right to Food Law, Amnesty International, 04 April 2019

Nepal 2018 Human Rights Report, by US Department of State, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor

Fighting inequality in Nepal: The road to prosperity. OXFAM report, 11 January 2019

Media Freedom Deteriorating. Annual media freedom report 2018 by Freedom Forum

Preliminary Comments: Draft Bill to Amend the Act on Commission on Investigation of Disappeared Persons, Truth and Reconciliation, 2014], by Amnesty International, ICJ and TRIAL International, 20 July 2018

Preliminary Comments of Conflict Victims’ Common Platform (CVCP) on proposed TJ draft bill to amend Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances, Truth and Reconciliation Act, 2014, 17 July 2018

Nepal: Transitional Justice Reform an Urgent Need; Current Draft Law Does Not Meet International Standards on Prosecuting Worst Crimes, by Human Rights Watch, 7 July 2018

Rule of Law Index 2017-2018 - Nepal, by World Justice Project

Nepal 2017 Human Rights Report, by US Department of State, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor

Amnesty International Annual Report 2017/2018 on Nepal, 22 February 2018

Nepal: Events of 2017, by Human Rights Watch, January 2018

Nepal: Transitional Justice Proving Elusive Term Extensions do not Cure Act’s Fundamental Problems. Joint press statement by ICJ, HRW and AI, 13 February 2018

Nepal’s Transitional Justice Process: Challenges and Future Strategy. A Discussion Paper, by International Commission of Jurists, August 2017

Trafficking in persons. National report 2015/16, by NHRC, June 2017

Amnesty International. Turning people into profits: Abusive recruitment, trafficking and forced labour of Nepali migrant workers. London, 6 June 2017

New Fronts, Brave Voices: Press Freedom in South Asia 2016-17, by International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), 3 May 2017 [Nepal on pages 72-77]

“Building inequality": The failure of the Nepali government to protect the marginalised in post-earthquake reconstruction efforts (Amnesty International 25/04/2017)

"What I want is for the government to help". Nepal: Ensure the right to adequate housing for the marginalised in post-earthquake Nepal (Amnesty International 25/04/2017)

Serious Crimes in Nepal’s Criminal Code Bill, 2014. A Briefing Paper by International Commission of Jurists (ICJ), March 2017

National Human Rights Commission Nepal (NHRC)

Nepal 2016 Human Rights Report, by US Department of State, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor, 3 March 2017

Nepal 206/17, report by Amnesty International, 22 February 2017

Nepal: extending transitional justice commissions without granting real powers betrays trust of victims, by International Commission of Jurists (10 February 2017)

NHRC. Varshik Prativedhan 2072/73 (yearly report), 13 January 2017 (in Nepali)

Human Rights Watch, World report 2017, Nepal chapter (January 2017)

Nepal: Decade After Peace, Scant Progress On Justice; Political Parties Fail to Deliver on Promises, by Human Rights Watch, 18 October 2016

Global Gender Gap Report 2016 - Nepal data, by World Economic Forum, Geneva, October 2016

Statement on the CIAA and reports on investigation of Social Science Baha (SSB) and Alliance for Social Dialogue (ASD) (BNAC 01/10/2016)

“Our Time to Sing and Play”: Child Marriage in Nepal, by Human Rights Watch, 7 September 2016 [see also video]

Nepal - Torture and Coerced Confessions, by Amnesty International, 19 July 2016

The Torture and Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment (Control) Bill, 2014. A Briefing Paper by International Commission of Jurists (ICJ), June 2016

Nepal 2015 Human Rights Report, by Department of State • Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor, Washington, 14 April 2016

Nepal 2015/16, by Amnesty International, 24 February 2016

Nepal’s police in Madhesi-hunting spree (Asian Human Rights Commission, 24 February 2016)

INSEC Yearbook 2016 (19 February 2016)

Earthquake Recovery Must Safeguard Human Rights, by Amnesty International 1 June 2015

Human Rights Watch: Silenced and Forgotten  Survivors of Nepal’s Conflict-Era Sexual Violence. September 23, 2014

International Commission of Jurists (ICJ): Justice denied: The 2014 Commission on Investigation of Disappeared Persons, Truth and Reconciliation Act. Geneva, May 2014

U.S. Department of State: Nepal 2013 Human Rights Report

Human Rights Watch. Under China’s Shadow: Mistreatment of Tibetans in Nepal. 1 April 2014

THRD Alliance. Continuing extra-judicial executions in the Terai (March 2014)

Amnesty International. The dark side of migration: Spotlight on Qatar's construction sector ahead of the world cup, London: AI, 18 November 2013

Nepal: Is the Government Unable or Unwilling to Prevent and Investigate Torture?, report by Advocacy Forum (26/06/2013)

Human Rights Watch: World Report 2013, Nepal chapter (01/02/2013)

Asian Human Rights Commission (AHRC): The State of Human Rights in Nepal in 2012 (10/12/2012)

Torture of Women: Nepal’s Duplicity Continues, rebort by Advocacy Forum (26/06/2012

Torture of Women in Detention: Nepal’s Failure to Prevent and Protect, by Advocy Forum (26/06/2011)

Right to Information Rules, 2065 (2009)

Right to Information Act, 2064 (2007)