National Human Rights Commission Urges Ensuring Judicial Access for Women and Girls on International Women's Day

Kathmandu. As the 116th International Women's Day is being celebrated globally with the theme 'Rights, Justice, and Opportunities for All Women and Girls,' the National Human Rights Commission has emphasized ensuring access to judicial and legal rights for women and girls. On this special occasion, the Commission extended best wishes to all women and girls both at home and abroad and drew the government's attention to the protection of their human rights. 

The Commission informed that it is continuously investigating and monitoring incidents of human rights violations against women, noting that much work remains to be done in the implementation aspect of legal provisions. The Commission has been undertaking various significant tasks in the area of rights for women and girls. 

Specifically, from conducting a national investigation program on the impact of child marriage on the enjoyment of human rights to monitoring the legal status and implementation concerning the rights of single women. The Commission has also conducted gender testing, organized international gender conferences, and monitored serious issues such as rape and Chhaupadi (menstruation huts), publishing reports on them. The Commission has been continuously advising the Government of Nepal to reform policies and regulations that hinder the enjoyment of women's rights.

Although women's rights are constitutionally and legally secured, many challenges still exist in practice. The Commission expressed concern over the rising incidents of physical and mental violence against adolescent girls and young girls due to harmful traditional practices. Issues such as domestic violence, human trafficking, digital violence, sexual violence, rape, and social discrimination are affecting the daily lives of women. Economic inequality, low participation in politics, impunity, and lack of access to justice prevent women and girls from fully enjoying their rights.

To address these challenges, the Commission urged the Government of Nepal to effectively implement the provisions enshrined in the Constitution and international laws. The Commission stressed the need to protect women and girls from all forms of violence and exploitation with sensitivity towards equality, empowerment, and respect. 

There is a clear need to take concrete steps to remove structural barriers to equal justice and eradicate deeply rooted harmful practices and negative social norms in society. The statement issued by the Commission's spokesperson, Dr. Tika Ram Pokharel, conveyed the message that the construction of a civilized society is impossible until the rights of women are secured.