UNITED NATIONS A General Assembly Distr. GENERAL A/HRC/10/53 3 March 2009 Original: ENGLISH HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL Tenth session Agenda item 2 ANNUAL REPORT OF THE UNITED NATIONS HIGH COMMISSIONER FOR HUMAN RIGHTS AND REPORTS OF THE OFFICE OF THE HIGH COMMISSIONER AND THE SECRETARY-GENERAL Report of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights on the human rights situation and the activities of her office, including technical cooperation, in Nepal* Summary The present report covers the human rights situation and the activities of the office of the High Commissioner in Nepal (OHCHR Nepal) during 2008. There have been very significant political developments since the report submitted by my predecessor last year, including the election of a Constituent Assembly, the declaration of a Republic and the formation of a new Government, as well as legislative and institutional reforms aimed at strengthening human rights protection. Challenges remain with regard to addressing the root causes of the conflict, which include impunity and deep-seated inequalities and discrimination. Priorities must also include improving public security and the protection of the population’s rights to life, liberty and security which are threatened by the proliferation of armed groups operating in the Terai (plains). The report highlights the need for all parties to the peace process to translate their public commitments into concrete actions to bring about lasting improvements in the human rights situation, including by ensuring that human rights and fundamental freedoms for all are enshrined in the future Constitution of Nepal. Durable improvements in the human rights situation and the strengthening of national institutions will require sustained efforts over an extended period, through concerted cooperation and dialogue among all relevant actors. OHCHR Nepal is ready to continue supporting the Government and people of Nepal in this endeavour. * Late submission. GE.09-11609 (E) 110309