The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Louise Arbour has welcomed the agreement reached between the ruling seven parties and the Maoists as a crucial step towards ending the conflict and strengthening respect for human rights.

In a press statement on Saturday, she said, “This agreement sets the foundation for a peace process and democratic transition in which the protection and promotion of human rights of all Nepalis must be central. It is essential that the parties translate their commitments into meaningful actions to end abuses”.

She further said, “Ending impunity remains one of the biggest human rights challenges for Nepal.” She also expressed hope that a high-level truth and reconciliation commission will be formed.

“A truth and reconciliation commission can be an important mechanism to address accountability for past human rights violations, and to tackle the underlying causes of the conflict”, said the high commissioner. “It can also help to heal wounds and social divisions, as well as to recognise the rights of victims to justice and reparation. To be effective, it is essential that the commission be independent and impartial, and be established only after widespread public consultation as to its mandate and the composition of commissioners. At the same time, it is important that there also be prosecutions for serious human rights violations in order to restore community trust in the rule of law and prevent abuses in the future”.

Reiterating her commitment to support Nepalis in all aspects of human rights promotion and protection, she added, “The parties have asked that OHCHR continue to monitor the human rights situation across the country and I am pleased to recommit my Office to this task. My new Representative in Nepal, Lena Sundh, will arrive in Nepal next week to lead this important work.”