| NEPAL Nepal Nepal Joined United Nations: 14 December 1955 Human Rights as assured by their constitution Click here Updated 09/16/10 |
| CAPITAL |
| POPULATION |
| CHIEF OF STATE |
| SELECTION PROCESS |
Kathmandu
28,951,852 (July 2010 est.)
Ram Baran Yadav
President since 23 July 2008
President since 23 July 2008
Following power-sharing discussions that lasted several months,
Prachanda was elected as Prime Minister by the Constituent
Assembly on August 15, 2008.
Next elections: TBD
Prachanda was elected as Prime Minister by the Constituent
Assembly on August 15, 2008.
Next elections: TBD
HEAD OF GOVERNMENT
Madhav Kumar Nepal
Prime Minister since 23 May 2009
Prime Minister since 23 May 2009
| DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS |
| ETHNIC GROUPS |
Chhettri 15.5%, Brahman-Hill 12.5%, Magar 7%, Tharu 6.6%, Tamang 5.5%, Newar 5.4%, Muslim 4.2%, Kami
3.9%, Yadav 3.9%, other 32.7%, unspecified 2.8% (2001 census)
3.9%, Yadav 3.9%, other 32.7%, unspecified 2.8% (2001 census)
| RELIGIONS |
Hindu 80.6%, Buddhist 10.7%, Muslim 4.2%, Kirant 3.6%, other 0.9% (2001 census)
note: only official Hindu state in the world though transition to secular democracy under consideration
note: only official Hindu state in the world though transition to secular democracy under consideration
| GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE |
Democratic republic with 14 zones (anchal, singular and plural); Legal is based on Hindu legal concepts and English
common law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Executive: Under the terms of the Nepalese Interim Constitution the Prime Minister is the Chief of State and Head of
Government selected by the seven parties which make up the governing coalition though power is currently separated
between a President, who serves as Chief of State and a Prime Minister who serves as Head of Government
Elections: President- 15 July 2008; Prime Minister- 15 August 2008; Next election to be determined
Legislative: an Interim Parliament was formed on 15 January 2007 following the promulgation of an interim constitution
elections: last held 10 April 2008; next scheduled election will be determined in future constitution
Judicial: Supreme Court or Sarbochha Adalat (chief justice is appointed by the monarch on recommendation of the
Constitutional Council; the other judges are appointed by the monarch on the recommendation of the Judicial Council)
common law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Executive: Under the terms of the Nepalese Interim Constitution the Prime Minister is the Chief of State and Head of
Government selected by the seven parties which make up the governing coalition though power is currently separated
between a President, who serves as Chief of State and a Prime Minister who serves as Head of Government
Elections: President- 15 July 2008; Prime Minister- 15 August 2008; Next election to be determined
Legislative: an Interim Parliament was formed on 15 January 2007 following the promulgation of an interim constitution
elections: last held 10 April 2008; next scheduled election will be determined in future constitution
Judicial: Supreme Court or Sarbochha Adalat (chief justice is appointed by the monarch on recommendation of the
Constitutional Council; the other judges are appointed by the monarch on the recommendation of the Judicial Council)
| LANGUAGES |
Nepali 47.8%, Maithali 12.1%, Bhojpuri 7.4%, Tharu (Dagaura/Rana) 5.8%, Tamang 5.1%, Newar 3.6%, Magar
3.3%, Awadhi 2.4%, other 10%, unspecified 2.5% (2001 census)
note: many in government and business also speak English
3.3%, Awadhi 2.4%, other 10%, unspecified 2.5% (2001 census)
note: many in government and business also speak English
| BRIEF HISTORY |
The toponym "Nepal" may derive from the Sanskrit nipalaya, which means "at the foot of the mountains" or "abode at the
foot," a reference to its location in relation to the Himalayas. Neolithic tools found in the Kathmandu Valley indicate that
people have been living in the Himalayan region for at least 9,000 years. Documented references reach back to the first
millennium BCE, when ancient Indian epics such as the Mahabharata mention the Kiratas, the inhabitants of Nepal. It
appears that people who were probably of Tibeto-Burman ethnicity lived in Nepal 2,500 years ago. Indo-Aryan tribes
began arriving around 1500 BCE from the northwest. Around 1000 BCE, small kingdoms and confederations of clans
arose in the region. One of the earliest confederations was that of the Shakya clan, whose capital was Kapilavastu, near
the present-day border with India. One of its princes was Siddharta Gautama (563–483 BCE), who renounced his
royalty to lead an ascetic life and came to be known as the Buddha ("the enlightened one"). By 260 BCE, most of
northern India was ruled by the Maurya Empire. Although not all of Nepal was under Maurya rule, there is evidence of at
least the influence of Ashoka the Great—the ruler of the Maurya Empire from 273 to 232 BCE and a convert to
Buddhism—have been found in the Kathmandu Valley. In the fourth century CE, the area fell under the Gupta Empire.
Though all of Nepal wasn't under the direct control of the Guptas, they have had an influence on its culture. Between
about 400 and 750 AD, Nepal's present capital Kathmandu was ruled by the Licchavi kingdom. Archaeological evidence
for this period mainly consists of stonework inscriptions, reckoned on two separate, consecutive eras. The Licchavi rulers
arranged for the documentation of information on politics, society, and the economy in the region. Most of the Licchavi
records—written in Sanskrit—are deeds reporting donations to religious foundations, predominantly Hindu temples; and
the last such record was added in 733. The Licchavi dynasty went into decline in the late eighth century and was followed
by a Newari era, from 879, although the extent of their control over the entire country is uncertain. By the late 11th
century, southern Nepal came under the influence of the Chalukaya Empire of southern India. Under the Chalukayas,
Nepal's religious establishment changed as the kings patronised Hinduism instead of the prevailing Buddhism. By the early
12th century, leaders were emerging whose names ended with the Sanskrit suffix malla ("wrestler"). Arimalla was the first
king of this dynasty, which was initially marked by upheaval before the kings consolidated their power over the next 200
years. Thirteenth-century Nepal was occasionally pillaged by the Delhi Sultanate of northern India, and was marked by
increased militarisation. By the late 14th century much of the country came under the rule of the king Jayasthitimalla, who
managed to unite most of the fragmented power bases. This unity was short-lived: in 1482 the kingdom was carved into
three: Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhadgaon. Modern Nepal was created in the latter half of the 18th century when Prithvi
Narayan Shah, the ruler of the small principality of Gorkha, formed a unified country from a number of independent hill
states. The country was frequently called the Gorkha Kingdom. It is a misconception that the Gurkhas took their name
from the Gorkha region of Nepal. The region was given its name after the Gurkhas had established their control of these
areas. Gurkha, also spelt as Gorkha, are people from Nepal who take their name from the legendary eighth century Hindu
warrior-saint Guru Gorakhnath. Gurkhas claim descent from the Hindu Rajputs and Brahmins of Northern India, who
entered modern Nepal from the west. After decades of rivalry between the medieval kingdoms, Prithvi Narayan Shah
dedicated himself at an early age to the conquest of the Kathmandu valley and the creation of a single state, which he
achieved in 1768. After 1800, the heirs of Prithvi Narayan Shah proved unable to maintain firm political control over
Nepal. A period of internal turmoil followed. Rivalry between Nepal and the British East India Company over the
annexation of minor states bordering Nepal eventually led to the Anglo-Nepalese War (1814–16), in which Nepal
suffered a complete rout. The Treaty of Sugauli was signed in 1816, ceding parts of the Terrai and Sikkim to the British in
exchange for Nepalese autonomy. Factionalism among the royal family led to a period of instability after the war. In 1846,
Queen Rajendralakshmi plotted to overthrow Jang Bahadur, a fast-rising military leader who was presenting a threat to
her power. The plot was uncovered and the queen had several hundred princes and chieftains executed after an armed
clash between military personnel and administrators loyal to the queen. This came to be known as the Kot Massacre.
However, Bahadur emerged victorious and founded the Rana lineage. In 1923 Britain and Nepal formally signed an
agreement of friendship, in which Nepal's independence was recognised by the British. In the late 1940s. Meanwhile, with
the annexation of Tibet by the Chinese in 1950, India faced the prospect of an expansive military power operating under a
radically different political philosophy on its long northern borders, and was thus keen to avoid instability in Nepal. Forced
to act, India sponsored both King Tribhuvan as Nepal's new ruler in 1951, and a new government, mostly comprising the
Nepali Congress Party. After years of power wrangling between Tribhuvan's son, King Mahendra and the government,
Mahendra dissolved the democratic experiment in 1960. In 1962 he declared that a "partyless" panchayat system would
govern Nepal. Declaring parliamentary democracy a failure 18 months later, King Mahendra dismissed the Koirala
government and promulgated a new constitution on December 16, 1962. The new constitution established a "partyless"
system of panchayats (councils) which King Mahendra considered to be a democratic form of government closer to
Nepalese traditions. King Mahendra was succeeded by his 27 year-old son, King Birendra, in 1972. In February 1996,
one of the Maoist parties started a bid to replace the parliamentary monarchy with a so-called people's new democratic
republic, through a Maoist revolutionary strategy known as the people's war, which has led to the Nepalese Civil War.
Led by Dr. Baburam Bhattarai and Pushpa Kamal Dahal (also known as "Prachanda"), the insurgency began in five
districts in Nepal: Rolpa, Rukum, Jajarkot, Gorkha, and Sindhuli. The Maoists declared the existence of a provisional
"people's government" at the district level in several locations. At one point, 70% of Nepal's countryside was under
Maoist rule. In June 2001 Crown Prince Dipendra went on a shooting-spree assassinating 11 members of the royal family
including King Birendra and Queen Aishwarya before shooting himself. Due to his survival he temporarily became king
before dying of his wounds resulting in Prince Gyanendra (Birendra's brother) inheriting the throne. Meanwhile, the Maoist
rebellion escalated, and in October 2002 the king temporarily deposed the government and took complete control of it. A
week later he reappointed another government, but the country is still very unstable because of the civil war with the
Maoists, the various political factions, the king's attempts to take more control of the government and worries about the
competence of Gyanendra's son and heir, Prince Paras. King Gyanendra took control once again on February 1, 2005.
Municipal elections in February 2006 were described by the European Union as "a backward step for democracy", as the
major parties boycotted the election and some candidates were forced to run for office by the army.[3] In April 2006
strikes and street protests in Kathmandu forced the king to reinstate the parliament. A seven-party coalition resumed
control of the government and stripped the king of most of his powers. Until May 28, 2008, Nepal was a constitutional
monarchy. On that date the constitution was altered by the Constituent Assembly to make the country a republic.
Currently, the positions of head of state and head of government are occupied by two different individuals, Pushpa Kamal
Dahal, elected Prime Minister on 15 August 2008 and Ram Baram Yadav, elected President 23 July 2008.
Sources Wikipedia: History of Nepal
foot," a reference to its location in relation to the Himalayas. Neolithic tools found in the Kathmandu Valley indicate that
people have been living in the Himalayan region for at least 9,000 years. Documented references reach back to the first
millennium BCE, when ancient Indian epics such as the Mahabharata mention the Kiratas, the inhabitants of Nepal. It
appears that people who were probably of Tibeto-Burman ethnicity lived in Nepal 2,500 years ago. Indo-Aryan tribes
began arriving around 1500 BCE from the northwest. Around 1000 BCE, small kingdoms and confederations of clans
arose in the region. One of the earliest confederations was that of the Shakya clan, whose capital was Kapilavastu, near
the present-day border with India. One of its princes was Siddharta Gautama (563–483 BCE), who renounced his
royalty to lead an ascetic life and came to be known as the Buddha ("the enlightened one"). By 260 BCE, most of
northern India was ruled by the Maurya Empire. Although not all of Nepal was under Maurya rule, there is evidence of at
least the influence of Ashoka the Great—the ruler of the Maurya Empire from 273 to 232 BCE and a convert to
Buddhism—have been found in the Kathmandu Valley. In the fourth century CE, the area fell under the Gupta Empire.
Though all of Nepal wasn't under the direct control of the Guptas, they have had an influence on its culture. Between
about 400 and 750 AD, Nepal's present capital Kathmandu was ruled by the Licchavi kingdom. Archaeological evidence
for this period mainly consists of stonework inscriptions, reckoned on two separate, consecutive eras. The Licchavi rulers
arranged for the documentation of information on politics, society, and the economy in the region. Most of the Licchavi
records—written in Sanskrit—are deeds reporting donations to religious foundations, predominantly Hindu temples; and
the last such record was added in 733. The Licchavi dynasty went into decline in the late eighth century and was followed
by a Newari era, from 879, although the extent of their control over the entire country is uncertain. By the late 11th
century, southern Nepal came under the influence of the Chalukaya Empire of southern India. Under the Chalukayas,
Nepal's religious establishment changed as the kings patronised Hinduism instead of the prevailing Buddhism. By the early
12th century, leaders were emerging whose names ended with the Sanskrit suffix malla ("wrestler"). Arimalla was the first
king of this dynasty, which was initially marked by upheaval before the kings consolidated their power over the next 200
years. Thirteenth-century Nepal was occasionally pillaged by the Delhi Sultanate of northern India, and was marked by
increased militarisation. By the late 14th century much of the country came under the rule of the king Jayasthitimalla, who
managed to unite most of the fragmented power bases. This unity was short-lived: in 1482 the kingdom was carved into
three: Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhadgaon. Modern Nepal was created in the latter half of the 18th century when Prithvi
Narayan Shah, the ruler of the small principality of Gorkha, formed a unified country from a number of independent hill
states. The country was frequently called the Gorkha Kingdom. It is a misconception that the Gurkhas took their name
from the Gorkha region of Nepal. The region was given its name after the Gurkhas had established their control of these
areas. Gurkha, also spelt as Gorkha, are people from Nepal who take their name from the legendary eighth century Hindu
warrior-saint Guru Gorakhnath. Gurkhas claim descent from the Hindu Rajputs and Brahmins of Northern India, who
entered modern Nepal from the west. After decades of rivalry between the medieval kingdoms, Prithvi Narayan Shah
dedicated himself at an early age to the conquest of the Kathmandu valley and the creation of a single state, which he
achieved in 1768. After 1800, the heirs of Prithvi Narayan Shah proved unable to maintain firm political control over
Nepal. A period of internal turmoil followed. Rivalry between Nepal and the British East India Company over the
annexation of minor states bordering Nepal eventually led to the Anglo-Nepalese War (1814–16), in which Nepal
suffered a complete rout. The Treaty of Sugauli was signed in 1816, ceding parts of the Terrai and Sikkim to the British in
exchange for Nepalese autonomy. Factionalism among the royal family led to a period of instability after the war. In 1846,
Queen Rajendralakshmi plotted to overthrow Jang Bahadur, a fast-rising military leader who was presenting a threat to
her power. The plot was uncovered and the queen had several hundred princes and chieftains executed after an armed
clash between military personnel and administrators loyal to the queen. This came to be known as the Kot Massacre.
However, Bahadur emerged victorious and founded the Rana lineage. In 1923 Britain and Nepal formally signed an
agreement of friendship, in which Nepal's independence was recognised by the British. In the late 1940s. Meanwhile, with
the annexation of Tibet by the Chinese in 1950, India faced the prospect of an expansive military power operating under a
radically different political philosophy on its long northern borders, and was thus keen to avoid instability in Nepal. Forced
to act, India sponsored both King Tribhuvan as Nepal's new ruler in 1951, and a new government, mostly comprising the
Nepali Congress Party. After years of power wrangling between Tribhuvan's son, King Mahendra and the government,
Mahendra dissolved the democratic experiment in 1960. In 1962 he declared that a "partyless" panchayat system would
govern Nepal. Declaring parliamentary democracy a failure 18 months later, King Mahendra dismissed the Koirala
government and promulgated a new constitution on December 16, 1962. The new constitution established a "partyless"
system of panchayats (councils) which King Mahendra considered to be a democratic form of government closer to
Nepalese traditions. King Mahendra was succeeded by his 27 year-old son, King Birendra, in 1972. In February 1996,
one of the Maoist parties started a bid to replace the parliamentary monarchy with a so-called people's new democratic
republic, through a Maoist revolutionary strategy known as the people's war, which has led to the Nepalese Civil War.
Led by Dr. Baburam Bhattarai and Pushpa Kamal Dahal (also known as "Prachanda"), the insurgency began in five
districts in Nepal: Rolpa, Rukum, Jajarkot, Gorkha, and Sindhuli. The Maoists declared the existence of a provisional
"people's government" at the district level in several locations. At one point, 70% of Nepal's countryside was under
Maoist rule. In June 2001 Crown Prince Dipendra went on a shooting-spree assassinating 11 members of the royal family
including King Birendra and Queen Aishwarya before shooting himself. Due to his survival he temporarily became king
before dying of his wounds resulting in Prince Gyanendra (Birendra's brother) inheriting the throne. Meanwhile, the Maoist
rebellion escalated, and in October 2002 the king temporarily deposed the government and took complete control of it. A
week later he reappointed another government, but the country is still very unstable because of the civil war with the
Maoists, the various political factions, the king's attempts to take more control of the government and worries about the
competence of Gyanendra's son and heir, Prince Paras. King Gyanendra took control once again on February 1, 2005.
Municipal elections in February 2006 were described by the European Union as "a backward step for democracy", as the
major parties boycotted the election and some candidates were forced to run for office by the army.[3] In April 2006
strikes and street protests in Kathmandu forced the king to reinstate the parliament. A seven-party coalition resumed
control of the government and stripped the king of most of his powers. Until May 28, 2008, Nepal was a constitutional
monarchy. On that date the constitution was altered by the Constituent Assembly to make the country a republic.
Currently, the positions of head of state and head of government are occupied by two different individuals, Pushpa Kamal
Dahal, elected Prime Minister on 15 August 2008 and Ram Baram Yadav, elected President 23 July 2008.
Sources Wikipedia: History of Nepal
| ECONOMIC OVERVIEW |
Nepal is among the poorest and least developed countries in the world, with almost one-quarter of its population living
below the poverty line. Agriculture is the mainstay of the economy, providing a livelihood for three-fourths of the
population and accounting for about one-third of GDP. Industrial activity mainly involves the processing of agricultural
products, including pulses, jute, sugarcane, tobacco, and grain. During the global recession of 2009, remittances from
foreign workers abroad increased 47% to $2.8 billion while tourist arrivals only decreased 1% compared to the previous
year. Nepal has considerable scope for exploiting its potential in hydropower, with an estimated 42,000 MW of feasible
capacity, but political instability hampers foreign investment. Additional challenges to Nepal's growth include its
technological backwardness, landlocked geographic location, civil strife and labor unrest, and its susceptibility to natural
disaster.
Sources CIA World Factbook (select Nepal)
below the poverty line. Agriculture is the mainstay of the economy, providing a livelihood for three-fourths of the
population and accounting for about one-third of GDP. Industrial activity mainly involves the processing of agricultural
products, including pulses, jute, sugarcane, tobacco, and grain. During the global recession of 2009, remittances from
foreign workers abroad increased 47% to $2.8 billion while tourist arrivals only decreased 1% compared to the previous
year. Nepal has considerable scope for exploiting its potential in hydropower, with an estimated 42,000 MW of feasible
capacity, but political instability hampers foreign investment. Additional challenges to Nepal's growth include its
technological backwardness, landlocked geographic location, civil strife and labor unrest, and its susceptibility to natural
disaster.
Sources CIA World Factbook (select Nepal)
| POLITICAL CLIMATE |
On 23 December 2007, an agreement was made for the monarchy to be abolished and the country to become a federal
republic with the Prime Minister becoming head of state. Defying political pundits, who had predicted it to be trounced in
the April 2008 elections, the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) became the largest party amidst a general atmosphere
of fear and intimidation from all sides[4] A federal republic was established in May 2008, with only four members of the
601-seat Constituent Assembly voting against the change, which ended 240 years of royal rule in Nepal. The government
announced a public holiday for three days, (May 28—May 30), to celebrate the country becoming a federal republic.
Until May 28, 2008, Nepal was a constitutional monarchy. On that date, the constitution was altered by the Constituent
Assembly to make the country a republic.
Source: Wikipedia: Politics of Nepal
republic with the Prime Minister becoming head of state. Defying political pundits, who had predicted it to be trounced in
the April 2008 elections, the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) became the largest party amidst a general atmosphere
of fear and intimidation from all sides[4] A federal republic was established in May 2008, with only four members of the
601-seat Constituent Assembly voting against the change, which ended 240 years of royal rule in Nepal. The government
announced a public holiday for three days, (May 28—May 30), to celebrate the country becoming a federal republic.
Until May 28, 2008, Nepal was a constitutional monarchy. On that date, the constitution was altered by the Constituent
Assembly to make the country a republic.
Source: Wikipedia: Politics of Nepal
| INTERNATIONAL DISPUTES |
Joint border commission continues to work on contested sections of boundary with India, including the 400 square
kilometer dispute over the source of the Kalapani River; India has instituted a stricter border regime to restrict transit of
Maoist insurgents and illegal cross-border activities; approximately 106,000 Bhutanese Lhotshampas (Hindus) have been
confined in refugee camps in southeastern Nepal since 1990
kilometer dispute over the source of the Kalapani River; India has instituted a stricter border regime to restrict transit of
Maoist insurgents and illegal cross-border activities; approximately 106,000 Bhutanese Lhotshampas (Hindus) have been
confined in refugee camps in southeastern Nepal since 1990
| REFUGEES AND INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS (IDP) |
Refugees (country of origin): 107,803 (Bhutan); 20,153 (Tibet/China)
IDPs: 50,000-70,000 (remaining from ten-year Maoist insurgency that officially ended in 2006; displacement spread
across the country) (2007)
IDPs: 50,000-70,000 (remaining from ten-year Maoist insurgency that officially ended in 2006; displacement spread
across the country) (2007)
| TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS |
None reported.
| HUMAN RIGHTS STATEMENTS, ANALYSIS AND CRITIQUES |
2009 Human Rights Report: Nepal
Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
2009 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
March 11, 2010
Nepal, a population of approximately 29 million, is a federal democratic republic. The political system is based on the 2007 interim
constitution with a prime minister as the chief executive and a Constituent Assembly that serves as a legislature and is required to
draft a new constitution by 2010. The prime minister, Madhav Kumar Nepal, of the Communist Party of Nepal – United Marxist
Leninist (UML), took office on May 25 following the resignation of former prime minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal whose party, the
United Communist Party of Nepal – Maoists (UCPN-M), has a plurality in the Constituent Assembly. Domestic and international
observers generally characterized the 2008 election results as credible, although there were reports of political violence,
intimidation, and voting irregularities. Civilian authorities generally maintained effective control of the security forces, but there
were frequent instances in which elements of the security forces acted independently.
The government's respect for human rights improved slightly as all parties joined the government.
Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
2009 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
March 11, 2010
Nepal, a population of approximately 29 million, is a federal democratic republic. The political system is based on the 2007 interim
constitution with a prime minister as the chief executive and a Constituent Assembly that serves as a legislature and is required to
draft a new constitution by 2010. The prime minister, Madhav Kumar Nepal, of the Communist Party of Nepal – United Marxist
Leninist (UML), took office on May 25 following the resignation of former prime minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal whose party, the
United Communist Party of Nepal – Maoists (UCPN-M), has a plurality in the Constituent Assembly. Domestic and international
observers generally characterized the 2008 election results as credible, although there were reports of political violence,
intimidation, and voting irregularities. Civilian authorities generally maintained effective control of the security forces, but there
were frequent instances in which elements of the security forces acted independently.
The government's respect for human rights improved slightly as all parties joined the government.
- Members of the security forces, the Maoist militias, the Maoist-affiliated Young Communist League (YCL), and members of
other small, often ethnically based armed groups committed human rights abuses. - Members of the Nepal Army (NA) were confined to their barracks in accordance with the Comprehensive Peace Agreement
(CPA) of 2006. - Members of the Nepal Police (NP) and Armed Police Force (APF) occasionally used excessive and lethal force in response
to continued demonstrations throughout the country. - Maoist militias engaged in arbitrary and unlawful use of lethal force and abduction.
- Violence, extortion, and intimidation continued throughout the year.
- Numerous armed groups, largely in the Terai region in the lowland area near the Indian border, attacked civilians,
government officials, members of particular ethnic groups, each other, or Maoist militias. - Impunity for human rights violators, threats against the media, arbitrary arrest, and lengthy pretrial detention were serious
problems. - The government compromised the independence of the judiciary by exerting political pressure on the judicial process, and
society continued to discriminate against persons of lower castes and persons with disabilities. - Violence against women and trafficking in persons, mainly women and girls, continued.
20 July 2009
HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL
Twelfth session
Agenda item 3
PROMOTION AND PROTECTION OF ALL HUMAN RIGHTS, CIVIL, POLITICAL, ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND
CULTURAL RIGHTS, INCLUDING THE RIGHT TO DEVELOPMENT
Report by the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights and fundamental freedoms of indigenous people,
James Anaya
Addendum
REPORT ON THE SITUATION OF INDIGENOUS PEOPLES IN NEPAL
Summary
The present report follows a visit to Nepal by the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights and fundamental freedoms of
indigenous peoples and focuses on the indigenous peoples of Nepal, comprehensively referred to as Adivasi Janajati. It reviews the
human rights situation of the Adivasi Janajati, analysing the ongoing process of constitution-making and political transition as it
relates to them and assessing the implementation of Nepal’s expressed commitment to secure their rights. The Special Rapporteur
is encouraged by expressions of commitment by the Government to advance the rights of Adivasi Janajati, which is manifested
by the ratification of the Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention, 1989 (No. 169) of the International Labour Organization and
the Government’s support for the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. At the same time, he notes a
number of ongoing human rights concerns related to a history of discrimination against the Adivasi Janajati. Conscious of the
challenges involved in Nepal’s period of transition to democracy, the Special Rapporteur offers several recommendations that may
serve to enhance the recognition and protection of the rights of the indigenous peoples in line with the Government’s commitments.
I. INTRODUCTION
1. The Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights and fundamental freedoms of indigenous people, James Anaya, visited
Nepal from 24 November to 2 December 2008 following an invitation from the Government of Nepal and with the encouragement
of indigenous peoples’ organizations of the country. Prior to, during, and subsequent to the visit the Special Rapporteur engaged in
an exchange of information with the Government, indigenous peoples and others, as well as in independent research, with the
purpose of examining the human rights situation of indigenous peoples in the light of international standards, and to assist the
Government of Nepal, indigenous communities, the United Nations and other actors in ongoing efforts to implement these
standards.
2. In Kathmandu, the Special Rapporteur held meetings with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; the Ministry of Local Development;
the Ministry for Law, Justice and Constituent Assembly Affairs; the Ministry of Forest and Soil Conservation; the Ministry of
Water; the Ministry of Culture and State Restructuring; the Ministry of Health and Population; and the Ministry of Education. In
addition, the Special Rapporteur consulted with the National Foundation for Development of Indigenous Nationalities (NFDIN), the
National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and members of the Constituent Assembly, and received pertinent information from
the Ministry of Land Reform and Management. He also held consultations with members of the United Nations Country Team
(UNCT) and Bretton Woods institutions, as well as with the United Nations Mission in Nepal (UNMIN).
Click here to read more »
HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL
Twelfth session
Agenda item 3
PROMOTION AND PROTECTION OF ALL HUMAN RIGHTS, CIVIL, POLITICAL, ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND
CULTURAL RIGHTS, INCLUDING THE RIGHT TO DEVELOPMENT
Report by the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights and fundamental freedoms of indigenous people,
James Anaya
Addendum
REPORT ON THE SITUATION OF INDIGENOUS PEOPLES IN NEPAL
Summary
The present report follows a visit to Nepal by the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights and fundamental freedoms of
indigenous peoples and focuses on the indigenous peoples of Nepal, comprehensively referred to as Adivasi Janajati. It reviews the
human rights situation of the Adivasi Janajati, analysing the ongoing process of constitution-making and political transition as it
relates to them and assessing the implementation of Nepal’s expressed commitment to secure their rights. The Special Rapporteur
is encouraged by expressions of commitment by the Government to advance the rights of Adivasi Janajati, which is manifested
by the ratification of the Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention, 1989 (No. 169) of the International Labour Organization and
the Government’s support for the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. At the same time, he notes a
number of ongoing human rights concerns related to a history of discrimination against the Adivasi Janajati. Conscious of the
challenges involved in Nepal’s period of transition to democracy, the Special Rapporteur offers several recommendations that may
serve to enhance the recognition and protection of the rights of the indigenous peoples in line with the Government’s commitments.
I. INTRODUCTION
1. The Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights and fundamental freedoms of indigenous people, James Anaya, visited
Nepal from 24 November to 2 December 2008 following an invitation from the Government of Nepal and with the encouragement
of indigenous peoples’ organizations of the country. Prior to, during, and subsequent to the visit the Special Rapporteur engaged in
an exchange of information with the Government, indigenous peoples and others, as well as in independent research, with the
purpose of examining the human rights situation of indigenous peoples in the light of international standards, and to assist the
Government of Nepal, indigenous communities, the United Nations and other actors in ongoing efforts to implement these
standards.
2. In Kathmandu, the Special Rapporteur held meetings with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; the Ministry of Local Development;
the Ministry for Law, Justice and Constituent Assembly Affairs; the Ministry of Forest and Soil Conservation; the Ministry of
Water; the Ministry of Culture and State Restructuring; the Ministry of Health and Population; and the Ministry of Education. In
addition, the Special Rapporteur consulted with the National Foundation for Development of Indigenous Nationalities (NFDIN), the
National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and members of the Constituent Assembly, and received pertinent information from
the Ministry of Land Reform and Management. He also held consultations with members of the United Nations Country Team
(UNCT) and Bretton Woods institutions, as well as with the United Nations Mission in Nepal (UNMIN).
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Freedom In The World 2010 Report
Political Rights Score: 4
Civil Liberties Score: 4
Status: Partly Free
Ratings Change
Nepal’s political rights rating improved from 5 to 4 due to relatively free and fair elections held in 2008.
Overview
In a blow to Nepal’s recovery from a long-running civil conflict, the Maoist party withdrew from the government in May after the
president rejected the Maoist prime minister’s attempt to fire the army chief. The Maoists physically blockaded the legislature for
the remainder of the year and organized mass protests across the country. Despite the political unrest, Nepal maintained the
significant improvements in law and order that followed the 2006 peace agreement. However, attacks on journalists remained
commonplace, and ethnic violence continued in the south.
The elections were finally held in April 2008, and international observers deemed them generally free and fair, with few incidents of
violence on election day. However, the campaign period was marred by widespread violence, with regular attacks on candidates
and campaign workers. Two candidates were killed, and Maoists were responsible for the bulk of the violence. The Maoist party
won a conclusive victory, capturing 220 of the 601 seats. Its nearest rival was the NC (110 seats), followed by the CPN-UML
(103 seats), the Madhesi People’s Rights Forum (52 seats), and a range of smaller parties and independents. The CA quickly voted
to replace the monarchy with a republican system, and in July it chose the NC’s Ram Baran Yadav as president. However, Maoist
leader Prachanda was elected prime minister in August, and the Maoists formed a coalition government.
Faced with a hostile press, a vocal opposition, and deep suspicion from the upper echelons of the increasingly politicized military,
the Maoists achieved little during their time in government. Antagonism between the Maoists and the army came to a head in May
2009, when Prachanda, frustrated by the military’s resistance to integration with former Maoist fighters, ordered the firing of army
chief Rookmangud Katawal. The order was legally dubious, since the president technically had control over such decisions, and it
inspired widespread protest among coalition partners. The firing was ultimately rejected by Yadav. Prachanda resigned, and a new
government led by the CPN-UML was formed. The Maoists maintained a physical blockade of the CA after leaving government,
and Maoist protests were common throughout the country for the remainder of 2009. The siege was suspended for three days in
late November to allow key budgetary legislation to pass.
Nepal is not an electoral democracy. The CA elections held in April 2008 were found to be “generally organized in a professional
and transparent manner” by a European Union observation team. However, the observers noted that the elections did not fully meet
international standards due to restrictions on freedoms of assembly, movement, and expression. Violence was fairly common
during the campaign period, though election day was generally peaceful.
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Political Rights Score: 4
Civil Liberties Score: 4
Status: Partly Free
Ratings Change
Nepal’s political rights rating improved from 5 to 4 due to relatively free and fair elections held in 2008.
Overview
In a blow to Nepal’s recovery from a long-running civil conflict, the Maoist party withdrew from the government in May after the
president rejected the Maoist prime minister’s attempt to fire the army chief. The Maoists physically blockaded the legislature for
the remainder of the year and organized mass protests across the country. Despite the political unrest, Nepal maintained the
significant improvements in law and order that followed the 2006 peace agreement. However, attacks on journalists remained
commonplace, and ethnic violence continued in the south.
The elections were finally held in April 2008, and international observers deemed them generally free and fair, with few incidents of
violence on election day. However, the campaign period was marred by widespread violence, with regular attacks on candidates
and campaign workers. Two candidates were killed, and Maoists were responsible for the bulk of the violence. The Maoist party
won a conclusive victory, capturing 220 of the 601 seats. Its nearest rival was the NC (110 seats), followed by the CPN-UML
(103 seats), the Madhesi People’s Rights Forum (52 seats), and a range of smaller parties and independents. The CA quickly voted
to replace the monarchy with a republican system, and in July it chose the NC’s Ram Baran Yadav as president. However, Maoist
leader Prachanda was elected prime minister in August, and the Maoists formed a coalition government.
Faced with a hostile press, a vocal opposition, and deep suspicion from the upper echelons of the increasingly politicized military,
the Maoists achieved little during their time in government. Antagonism between the Maoists and the army came to a head in May
2009, when Prachanda, frustrated by the military’s resistance to integration with former Maoist fighters, ordered the firing of army
chief Rookmangud Katawal. The order was legally dubious, since the president technically had control over such decisions, and it
inspired widespread protest among coalition partners. The firing was ultimately rejected by Yadav. Prachanda resigned, and a new
government led by the CPN-UML was formed. The Maoists maintained a physical blockade of the CA after leaving government,
and Maoist protests were common throughout the country for the remainder of 2009. The siege was suspended for three days in
late November to allow key budgetary legislation to pass.
Nepal is not an electoral democracy. The CA elections held in April 2008 were found to be “generally organized in a professional
and transparent manner” by a European Union observation team. However, the observers noted that the elections did not fully meet
international standards due to restrictions on freedoms of assembly, movement, and expression. Violence was fairly common
during the campaign period, though election day was generally peaceful.
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Nepal: Authorities must provide justice for torture and murder of 15-year-old Maina Sunuwar
17 February 2010
International and local human rights organisations have today urged the Nepali authorities to stop obstructing criminal proceedings
over the alleged torture and murder of 15-year-old Maina Sunuwar by four army officers.
An open letter to the Attorney General of Nepal, Professor Bharat Bahadur Karki, on the sixth anniversary of Maina Sunwar’s
death, calls on him to end ongoing obstructions to bringing the officers to trial.
They are accused of subjecting Maina to prolonged simulated drowning and electrocution with a 220-volt current, which led to her
death. Her body was secretly buried but later exhumed at an army barracks where Nepali UN peacekeepers are trained.
‘Nepal’s politicians continually talk about taking the peace process to its ‘logical conclusion’ but what is ‘logical’ about a peace
process that allows those accused of killing a young girl to remain free? Or law enforcement agencies that do not respect the law
courts?’, said Mandira Sharma, Director of Advocacy Forum - Nepal.
The letter coincides with the release of a comprehensive analysis of the case by the Nepali NGO, Advocacy Forum.
These two documents highlight multiple failings by the government to investigate and prosecute those responsible for Maina’s
murder along with hundreds of others during the country’s decade long conflict between Maoists and the government which ended
in 2006.
The organizations demand justice for Maina’s family after an inquiry conducted by the Nepal Army resulted in the court martial of
three soldiers for only minor disciplinary offences.
Despite a September 2007 Supreme Court ruling that the case falls under civilian jurisdiction, and subsequent arrest warrants issued
in January 2008 by the Kavre District Court, the Army is refusing to cooperate and police have failed to make arrests. The Nepal
Army is harbouring one of the four accused, Major Niranjan Basnet, instead of handing him over for trial.
‘The failure to arrest and prosecute those charged with Maina’s murder reveals all too clearly the longstanding weaknesses in the
Nepal justice system. This makes a mockery of promises by politicians to address human rights abuses and end impunity as part of
the peace process. The government must now ensure those accused of killing Maina are arrested and held accountable in a court of
law’, said Donna Guest, Asia-Pacific Deputy Director, Amnesty International.
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17 February 2010
International and local human rights organisations have today urged the Nepali authorities to stop obstructing criminal proceedings
over the alleged torture and murder of 15-year-old Maina Sunuwar by four army officers.
An open letter to the Attorney General of Nepal, Professor Bharat Bahadur Karki, on the sixth anniversary of Maina Sunwar’s
death, calls on him to end ongoing obstructions to bringing the officers to trial.
They are accused of subjecting Maina to prolonged simulated drowning and electrocution with a 220-volt current, which led to her
death. Her body was secretly buried but later exhumed at an army barracks where Nepali UN peacekeepers are trained.
‘Nepal’s politicians continually talk about taking the peace process to its ‘logical conclusion’ but what is ‘logical’ about a peace
process that allows those accused of killing a young girl to remain free? Or law enforcement agencies that do not respect the law
courts?’, said Mandira Sharma, Director of Advocacy Forum - Nepal.
The letter coincides with the release of a comprehensive analysis of the case by the Nepali NGO, Advocacy Forum.
These two documents highlight multiple failings by the government to investigate and prosecute those responsible for Maina’s
murder along with hundreds of others during the country’s decade long conflict between Maoists and the government which ended
in 2006.
The organizations demand justice for Maina’s family after an inquiry conducted by the Nepal Army resulted in the court martial of
three soldiers for only minor disciplinary offences.
Despite a September 2007 Supreme Court ruling that the case falls under civilian jurisdiction, and subsequent arrest warrants issued
in January 2008 by the Kavre District Court, the Army is refusing to cooperate and police have failed to make arrests. The Nepal
Army is harbouring one of the four accused, Major Niranjan Basnet, instead of handing him over for trial.
‘The failure to arrest and prosecute those charged with Maina’s murder reveals all too clearly the longstanding weaknesses in the
Nepal justice system. This makes a mockery of promises by politicians to address human rights abuses and end impunity as part of
the peace process. The government must now ensure those accused of killing Maina are arrested and held accountable in a court of
law’, said Donna Guest, Asia-Pacific Deputy Director, Amnesty International.
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Nepal: Political Parties Should Press for Major’s Arrest in Girl’s Killing
Hold Those Responsible for Wartime Killings Accountable
July 15, 2010
(New York) - Nepal's political leaders should make sure that the Nepal Army hands over an officer implicated in the 2004 murder
of a 15-year-old girl to the police and that the officer is held accountable in civilian criminal proceedings, Human Rights Watch and
Advocacy Forum said today in a letter to the leaders of the country's political parties.
Major Niranjan Basnet was charged with illegal detention, torture, and murder in the killing of the girl, Maina Sunuwar, by the
Kavre District Court in 2007, and an arrest warrant and a summons were issued against him. But he was not arrested and has not
appeared in court. The Nepal Army has not responded to repeated requests by the police to surrender him. On July 14, 2010, the
Nepal Army, after an internal inquiry, found Basnet to be "innocent," a decision endorsed by the Defense Ministry.
"The Maina Sunuwar killing has become a test case for justice in Nepal," said Tejshree Thapa, South Asia researcher for Human
Rights Watch. "Political leaders, regardless of their ideology, should unite to ensure that perpetrators of torture and murder have no
place to hide."
Sunuwar's killing took place during the decade-long conflict that ended in 2006 between Maoists and government forces, in which
over 13,000 people died. Despite a peace agreement, followed by elections, not a single person has been prosecuted in civilian
courts for serious human rights abuses during the armed conflict.
The proceedings that led to the July 14 decision have not been made public apart from some statements given in these proceedings
that have been released to the Kavre District Court. Basnet, who had been serving as a United Nations peacekeeper in Chad, was
returned to Nepal on December 13, 2009, after the UN discovered that the Kavre District Court had charged him and three others
with the illegal detention, killing, and torture of Sunuwar.
In the letter, Human Rights Watch said that there was compelling evidence against Basnet. In Basnet's own statement during
military investigations into the girl's death, now available in the statements released to the Kavre court, he appeared to admit
involvement in the illegal detention and interrogation of a minor, admitting that "she might have died due to water pouring, giving
shocks etc. the methods used during interrogation."
He has also admitted that he participated in a cover up to hide Sunawar's death in army custody. Statements from other officers
indicate that Basnet was a willing participant during the interrogation.
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Hold Those Responsible for Wartime Killings Accountable
July 15, 2010
(New York) - Nepal's political leaders should make sure that the Nepal Army hands over an officer implicated in the 2004 murder
of a 15-year-old girl to the police and that the officer is held accountable in civilian criminal proceedings, Human Rights Watch and
Advocacy Forum said today in a letter to the leaders of the country's political parties.
Major Niranjan Basnet was charged with illegal detention, torture, and murder in the killing of the girl, Maina Sunuwar, by the
Kavre District Court in 2007, and an arrest warrant and a summons were issued against him. But he was not arrested and has not
appeared in court. The Nepal Army has not responded to repeated requests by the police to surrender him. On July 14, 2010, the
Nepal Army, after an internal inquiry, found Basnet to be "innocent," a decision endorsed by the Defense Ministry.
"The Maina Sunuwar killing has become a test case for justice in Nepal," said Tejshree Thapa, South Asia researcher for Human
Rights Watch. "Political leaders, regardless of their ideology, should unite to ensure that perpetrators of torture and murder have no
place to hide."
Sunuwar's killing took place during the decade-long conflict that ended in 2006 between Maoists and government forces, in which
over 13,000 people died. Despite a peace agreement, followed by elections, not a single person has been prosecuted in civilian
courts for serious human rights abuses during the armed conflict.
The proceedings that led to the July 14 decision have not been made public apart from some statements given in these proceedings
that have been released to the Kavre District Court. Basnet, who had been serving as a United Nations peacekeeper in Chad, was
returned to Nepal on December 13, 2009, after the UN discovered that the Kavre District Court had charged him and three others
with the illegal detention, killing, and torture of Sunuwar.
In the letter, Human Rights Watch said that there was compelling evidence against Basnet. In Basnet's own statement during
military investigations into the girl's death, now available in the statements released to the Kavre court, he appeared to admit
involvement in the illegal detention and interrogation of a minor, admitting that "she might have died due to water pouring, giving
shocks etc. the methods used during interrogation."
He has also admitted that he participated in a cover up to hide Sunawar's death in army custody. Statements from other officers
indicate that Basnet was a willing participant during the interrogation.
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Report of the NHRI of Nepal on the Universal Periodic Review (UPR),
5 July 2010
Joint Press Release
A joint report of the NHRI of Nepal on the Universal Period review (UPR) on the human rights situation in Nepal has been
submitted to the UN Human Rights Council Geneva, today by the NHRIs of Nepal namely the National Human Rights Commission,
the National Women Commission and the National Dalit Commission.
The issues with regard to the human rights Situation in Nepal in the past have been reviewed in this report that primarily include
equality and non-discrimination, right to life, torture, peace and security, administration of justice. In addition, the situation with
regard to the women's rights, Dalit's rights, rights of child are reviewed in the report. In addition a review is made on the issues of
rights relating to food, housing, and education, healthcare and so on. Likewise rights relating to minorities, senior citizens, persons
with disabilities and internally displaced persons have been reviewed.
Apart from these, the review has also been made on the peace process, transitional justice, condition of disappeared persons and
impunity.
During the process of the preparation of this report various regional level consultative workshops among the stakeholders in five
different regions were held. In addition national level comprehensive national level consultative meeting was organized in
Kathmandu. The inputs in the form of public opinion were invited through the national media as well.
The report entails the recommendations as below:
1. Revise the law, policies and their implementation approach in order to end inequality and discrimination.
2. Ratify international conventions and treaties among core instruments in the context of fulfilling international obligations as
committed by Nepal.
3. Implement the recommendations made by the Commissions and court decisions in the context of getting rid of impunity as
well as give high value to the rule of law.
4. Enact the legislation under consideration in parliament to date with regard to autonomy and independence of NHRC in
compliance with the Paris Principles.
5. Give adequate legal protection to all human rights institutions.
6. Fulfill both national and international commitments expressed by the state on the issues of basic human rights including
health, education, food, housing with an a objective to ensure economic, social and political rights.
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5 July 2010
Joint Press Release
A joint report of the NHRI of Nepal on the Universal Period review (UPR) on the human rights situation in Nepal has been
submitted to the UN Human Rights Council Geneva, today by the NHRIs of Nepal namely the National Human Rights Commission,
the National Women Commission and the National Dalit Commission.
The issues with regard to the human rights Situation in Nepal in the past have been reviewed in this report that primarily include
equality and non-discrimination, right to life, torture, peace and security, administration of justice. In addition, the situation with
regard to the women's rights, Dalit's rights, rights of child are reviewed in the report. In addition a review is made on the issues of
rights relating to food, housing, and education, healthcare and so on. Likewise rights relating to minorities, senior citizens, persons
with disabilities and internally displaced persons have been reviewed.
Apart from these, the review has also been made on the peace process, transitional justice, condition of disappeared persons and
impunity.
During the process of the preparation of this report various regional level consultative workshops among the stakeholders in five
different regions were held. In addition national level comprehensive national level consultative meeting was organized in
Kathmandu. The inputs in the form of public opinion were invited through the national media as well.
The report entails the recommendations as below:
1. Revise the law, policies and their implementation approach in order to end inequality and discrimination.
2. Ratify international conventions and treaties among core instruments in the context of fulfilling international obligations as
committed by Nepal.
3. Implement the recommendations made by the Commissions and court decisions in the context of getting rid of impunity as
well as give high value to the rule of law.
4. Enact the legislation under consideration in parliament to date with regard to autonomy and independence of NHRC in
compliance with the Paris Principles.
5. Give adequate legal protection to all human rights institutions.
6. Fulfill both national and international commitments expressed by the state on the issues of basic human rights including
health, education, food, housing with an a objective to ensure economic, social and political rights.
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Press Release
September 28, 2009
Rt. Hon. Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal returned to Kathmandu today after leading the Nepalese delegation to the
64th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
The Rt. Hon. Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal returned to Kathmandu today after leading the Nepalese delegation to the 64th
Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. He is accompanied by Spouse Mrs. Gayatri Nepal and members of
the delegation.
The Rt. Hon. Prime Minister addressed the 64th Session of the United Nations General Assembly on 26 September 2009. In his
address, the Rt. Hon. Prime Minister reaffirmed Nepal’s abiding faith in the principles of the United Nations Charter and
commitment to international peace and security. He apprised the international community about the progress achieved so far in
Nepal's peace process and reaffirmed the Government's determination to take it to its positive conclusion as envisaged in the
Comprehensive Peace Accord by building consensus among the political parties through dialogue and consultations.
The Rt. Hon. Prime Minister highlighted constitution making through the Constituent Assembly within the stipulated time as one of
the three major tasks of the Government. Drawing an organic link between freedom and development, the Rt. Hon. Prime Minister
observed, freedom rings hollow when there is no development and development loses its soul if it is not accompanied by freedom.
He sought continuous support and cooperation of the international community in Nepal's development saying failure to address the
rising expectations of the people and provide peace dividends to the conflict-affected grassroots people could lead to unintended
consequences challenging both the peace and democratization process of Nepal and elsewhere.
He highlighted the adverse impacts of climate change and global warming on the Himalayas and the increasing threat of glacial lake
outbursts and their disastrous effects on countries like Nepal and called upon the international community to adhere to the principle
of common but differentiated responsibilities in order to comprehensively and effectively deal with these problems.
He stated that the least developed countries and landlocked developing countries were most vulnerable ones among others and
called for more specific and enhanced level of international support to match the special needs of these countries.
Click here to read more »
September 28, 2009
Rt. Hon. Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal returned to Kathmandu today after leading the Nepalese delegation to the
64th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
The Rt. Hon. Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal returned to Kathmandu today after leading the Nepalese delegation to the 64th
Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. He is accompanied by Spouse Mrs. Gayatri Nepal and members of
the delegation.
The Rt. Hon. Prime Minister addressed the 64th Session of the United Nations General Assembly on 26 September 2009. In his
address, the Rt. Hon. Prime Minister reaffirmed Nepal’s abiding faith in the principles of the United Nations Charter and
commitment to international peace and security. He apprised the international community about the progress achieved so far in
Nepal's peace process and reaffirmed the Government's determination to take it to its positive conclusion as envisaged in the
Comprehensive Peace Accord by building consensus among the political parties through dialogue and consultations.
The Rt. Hon. Prime Minister highlighted constitution making through the Constituent Assembly within the stipulated time as one of
the three major tasks of the Government. Drawing an organic link between freedom and development, the Rt. Hon. Prime Minister
observed, freedom rings hollow when there is no development and development loses its soul if it is not accompanied by freedom.
He sought continuous support and cooperation of the international community in Nepal's development saying failure to address the
rising expectations of the people and provide peace dividends to the conflict-affected grassroots people could lead to unintended
consequences challenging both the peace and democratization process of Nepal and elsewhere.
He highlighted the adverse impacts of climate change and global warming on the Himalayas and the increasing threat of glacial lake
outbursts and their disastrous effects on countries like Nepal and called upon the international community to adhere to the principle
of common but differentiated responsibilities in order to comprehensively and effectively deal with these problems.
He stated that the least developed countries and landlocked developing countries were most vulnerable ones among others and
called for more specific and enhanced level of international support to match the special needs of these countries.
Click here to read more »
CIAA starts probe into NAC-Airbus deal
MILAN MANI SHARMA
KATHMANDU,
Aug 11 2010
Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) has initiated investigation into controversial deal of Nepal Airlines
Corporation (NAC) with Airbus, in which the national flag carrier flouted prevailing procurement law while deciding to buy two
aircraft from the European aircraft manufacturer.
“We took control of crucial documents from NAC on Monday and investigations have begun on the controversial deal that drew
flak from the Parliament´s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) as well as Ministry of Finance (MoF),” said CIAA spokesperson
Ishwari Prasad Paudel.
He told Republica that the commission will mainly look into legal compliance and possible anomaly in the deal.
The step by the constitutional anti-graft body has brought the year-long initiatives of NAC to move ahead with the deal to a grinding
halt. The corporation, meanwhile, has criticized the move saying it will affect the plan to bring in new aircraft, something which is
crucial to make Nepal Tourism Year 2011 successful.
On Oct 2, 2009, NAC had decided to buy a wide-body Airbus A330-200 and a narrow-body A320-200. In this connection it had
even forwarded the lock-up money of $750,000 to the aircraft manufacturer.
However, PAC and MoF that investigated into the case had concluded that NAC flouted the existing laws and instructed it to scrap
the deal. They had further raised question over NAC´s intention of forwarding the lock-up money before getting government
guarantee and arranging finances.
NAC was eyeing to procure the aircraft by taking Rs 10 billion in loan from the Employees Provident Fund, but the manager of
Fund had set government guarantee as pre-requisite for issuing loan to the ailing national flag carrier. MoF, on the other hand, had
set numerous conditions like management and operational reforms in NAC for pledging such guarantee. However, NAC never took
initiatives to gain confidence of MoF.
Subsequently, MoF on May 24 had asked the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation (MoTCA), the parent ministry overseeing
NAC operations, to direct NAC to recover the lock-up money forwarded to Airbus.
If Airbus refuses to return the lock-up money, it had even instructed MoTCA to recover the money with interest from the
concerned NAC officials.
However, top officials at NAC continue to maintain that they never violated Public Procurement Act while undertaking aircraft
purchasing process.
Click here to read more »
MILAN MANI SHARMA
KATHMANDU,
Aug 11 2010
Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) has initiated investigation into controversial deal of Nepal Airlines
Corporation (NAC) with Airbus, in which the national flag carrier flouted prevailing procurement law while deciding to buy two
aircraft from the European aircraft manufacturer.
“We took control of crucial documents from NAC on Monday and investigations have begun on the controversial deal that drew
flak from the Parliament´s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) as well as Ministry of Finance (MoF),” said CIAA spokesperson
Ishwari Prasad Paudel.
He told Republica that the commission will mainly look into legal compliance and possible anomaly in the deal.
The step by the constitutional anti-graft body has brought the year-long initiatives of NAC to move ahead with the deal to a grinding
halt. The corporation, meanwhile, has criticized the move saying it will affect the plan to bring in new aircraft, something which is
crucial to make Nepal Tourism Year 2011 successful.
On Oct 2, 2009, NAC had decided to buy a wide-body Airbus A330-200 and a narrow-body A320-200. In this connection it had
even forwarded the lock-up money of $750,000 to the aircraft manufacturer.
However, PAC and MoF that investigated into the case had concluded that NAC flouted the existing laws and instructed it to scrap
the deal. They had further raised question over NAC´s intention of forwarding the lock-up money before getting government
guarantee and arranging finances.
NAC was eyeing to procure the aircraft by taking Rs 10 billion in loan from the Employees Provident Fund, but the manager of
Fund had set government guarantee as pre-requisite for issuing loan to the ailing national flag carrier. MoF, on the other hand, had
set numerous conditions like management and operational reforms in NAC for pledging such guarantee. However, NAC never took
initiatives to gain confidence of MoF.
Subsequently, MoF on May 24 had asked the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation (MoTCA), the parent ministry overseeing
NAC operations, to direct NAC to recover the lock-up money forwarded to Airbus.
If Airbus refuses to return the lock-up money, it had even instructed MoTCA to recover the money with interest from the
concerned NAC officials.
However, top officials at NAC continue to maintain that they never violated Public Procurement Act while undertaking aircraft
purchasing process.
Click here to read more »
Paramananda Jha
Vice President since 23 July 2008
Vice President since 23 July 2008
| Click map for larger view |
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| ILLICIT DRUGS |
Illicit producer of cannabis and hashish for the domestic and international drug markets; transit point for opiates from
Southeast Asia to the West
Southeast Asia to the West
| SELECTION PROCESS |
President and Vice President elected by Parliament; Under the
interim Constitution, terms have not been clearly defined but,
upon the election of the new Prime Minister, a Constituent
Assembly will be convened to write a new Constitution and,
with it, the establishment of executive terms.
Next elections: TBD
interim Constitution, terms have not been clearly defined but,
upon the election of the new Prime Minister, a Constituent
Assembly will be convened to write a new Constitution and,
with it, the establishment of executive terms.
Next elections: TBD
Bijay Kumar Gachhedar
Deputy Prime Minister
since 23 May 2009
Deputy Prime Minister
since 23 May 2009
