Kathmandu, Nepal (BBN) - While Nepal has come a long way in tackling discrimination and the marginalization of certain communities, more can be done to ensure fundamental rights and freedoms of its all citizens, a United Nations official said on Thursday.
Richard Bennett, Representative of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights in Nepal, stressed that Nepal had taken “significant steps” to address some of the worst examples of discrimination, including caste-based discrimination, according to a UN press statement.
Mr. Bennett also said research done by his office found that law enforcement agencies must more effectively enforce existing legislation, including by filing First Information Reports (FIRs). Also, communities must be educated about their existing rights to justice and non-discrimination.
“The election of the Constituent Assembly and soon the drafting of a constitution that will reflect the aspirations and recognize the human rights of all members of each community in this very multicultural society are signal events in Nepal’s peace process,” He added.
But he cautioned that while strong laws are necessary, they are, on their own, insufficient to end discrimination.
BBN/SI/SI/AD-15 August08-12:16 AM