Nepal: High-Level consultation enhances judicial capacity to tackle gender-based violence

Kathmandu, Nepal/12 June 2023: Public prosecutors and judges hold a critical position in the pursuit of justice for victims of gender-based violence. Their role involves prosecuting perpetrators and ensuring they are held accountable for their actions. Judges, on the other hand, play a crucial role in providing legal support to victims, guiding them through the complex legal process and assisting them in seeking justice.

Recognizing the pivotal roles of judges, lawyers and public prosecutors in protecting human rights, UNODC, in collaboration with the Office of the Attorney General, Government of Nepal, a high-level consultation program was organized to address the investigation, prosecution, and adjudication of Gender-Based Violence. The consultation was aimed at empowering legal professionals with the necessary tools and knowledge.

At the consultation, participants engaged in open dialogue, discussing the challenges they encounter in prosecuting rape cases. These challenges include the scarcity of evidence, witness intimidation, and inadequate resources. The participants actively sought recommendations from each other, pooling their expertise to develop comprehensive strategies to address these obstacles. Additionally, the need for improved coordination among different agencies involved in the prosecution of rape cases, such as the police, forensic labs, and victim support services, was a key topic of discussion.

By fostering collaboration and sharing experiences, the high-level consultation program created an environment conducive to innovation and effective solutions. The valuable insights gained during the discussions will inform future efforts to combat gender-based violence, leading to improved outcomes for survivors and a more robust justice system.

UNODC's efforts in Nepal focus on strengthening the capacity of lawyers and public prosecutors to effectively address gender-based violence. By equipping legal professionals with the skills and resources they need, UNODC seeks to enhance their ability to combat this pervasive issue and ensure that survivors receive the support and justice they deserve.

This activity contributed to SDG 5 and SDG 16: https://sdg-tracker.org/