National
ICJ: Ensure rights in line with Int’l standards
The International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) has urged the Constituent Assembly to ensure protection of human rights in line with the international human rights obligations.Four major political parties reached an agreement on contentious issues and developed a fast-track process to promulgate the new constitution. “However, lack of transparency in the current fast-track process, combined with accelerated time frame, risks undermining people’s ability to participate effectively in the development of the new statute,” read the statement.
International law and standards require meaningful public consultation through a transparent and inclusive process before the promulgation of the constitution.
“None of Nepal’s previous constitutions were the result of meaningful consultations and public participation”, said Sam Zarifi, ICJ Asia’s director. “The current government must take immediate steps to consult and ensure the participation of all stakeholders.”