EU expresses serious concern over TRC draft bill

The European Union (EU) has expressed serious concern over the proposed Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Bill, saying some provisions in the Bill do not meet international standards and will not advance democratic principles.

British Ambassador to Nepal, Dr Andrew Hall, who also heads the EU in Nepal met with Minister for Peace and Reconciliation Ramchandra Poudel on Wednesday and expressed concern over the proposed TRC bill.

Dr Hall said,  "The EU welcomes the proposal to establish a TRC in Nepal. Addressing the past on the basis of truth, justice and reparation allows the country to look forward and build a society where violence is unacceptable and the rule of law is respected. But the EU is concerned by some of the provisions in the Bill which do not meet international standards and will not advance democratic principles.”

A press statement issued by British Embassy on Thursday in Kathmandu quoted Dr Hall as saying, "This is of particular concern in regard to the granting of amnesty for human rights violators, including those guilty of the grave crimes of torture and murder. . This is not the basis on which lasting peace can be built."

The statement further said, “In the spirit of supporting Nepal's transition to a peaceful democracy, the EU supports OHCHR's and civil society's call for a TRC to be established only after extensive and inclusive consultation with others including victim groups, and only once there is an environment that allows a credible Commission to function.”

Dr Hall, in the statement said, "I urged the minister to consider carefully the next steps on the TRC, taking into account international laws and experience and keeping in view the opportunity a sound process of truth and reconciliation represents to heal the wounds of the past."