24 March 2024, Kaski: Advocacy Forum-Nepal (AF), in collaboration with the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ), organized a Provincial Interaction between Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Conflict Victims in Pokhara, Kaski, Gandaki Province on March 23-24, 2024.
Timed to coincide with the International Day for the Right to the Truth Concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims, the event aimed to fortify the network of conflict victims in the Gandaki Province.
The event addressed several crucial objectives, including enhancing support systems for wives of the victims of enforced disappearances within the conflict victims’ network and acquainting participants with ongoing legal developments in transitional justice. Moreover, attendees were apprised of the strides made through strategic litigation efforts initiated by ICJ and AF for the benefit of wives of the victims of enforced disappearances.
The programme also facilitated meaningful interactions between conflict victims from various districts of the Gandaki province and officials from the Pokhara Metropolitan City. Participants gained insights into budget allocation and planning processes at the local level, enabling them to advocate for the inclusion of conflict victims’ needs in municipal planning, particularly regarding interim reparation measures.
Conflict victims shared their experiences regarding reparation efforts undertaken by local governments. It was noted that districts with robust networks of conflict victims received greater attention from local authorities, with opportunities and needs of conflict victims being incorporated into annual plans. Conversely, in districts where victim networks were weaker, such efforts yielded limited results.
The forum underscored the critical importance of strengthening the network of conflict victims in every district, fostering synergies among them, and enhancing access to opportunities and recognition from local governments. As the event drew to a close, participants left with a renewed sense of empowerment and solidarity, poised to advocate for their rights and needs with greater efficacy.
