UNDP: Strengthening the Capacity of National Human Rights Commission in Nepal

Description What is done in the programme or project and why, what results are pursued, who benefits from the activities and who are involved in the implementation.

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) was established in May 2000 and was subsequently elevated to the status of a constitutional body by the 2007 Interim Constitution of Nepal. The commission has an extensive mandate to receive complaints, conduct investigations and make recommendations, but it is lacking in enforcement powers. The UNDP coordinated joint financing project will enhance the capacity of NHRC in the areas of i) auditing human rights compliance issues in legislation, policies, plans, practices and procedures which will ensure respect for human rights by state actors, ii) ensuring the effective implementation of the international human rights instruments to fulfill state obligations, iii) ensuring human rights in the forthcoming constitution and iv) protecting and promoting the civil, political and socio-economic rights. This project will support the NHRC to build both its capacity to work with stakeholders and to meet its accountability and obligations through public opinions, inclusive work processes and reporting. Finnish contribution to the UNDP-led basket fund has been € 400 000 during 2009-2013. Additional Finnish funding of € 200 000 is allocated for securing the undisrupted UNDP support to NHRC in view of the upcoming November 2013 parliament elections in Nepal and the nomination process of the new Human rights commissioners. Estimated implementation period 2013- 2016.