National Human Rights Commission , Pulchowk, Lalitpur

Services and Functions

Course

Utility Service

Overview

Functions and Services of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Nepal

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC – Rastriya Manav Adhikar Aayog) protects, promotes, and helps enforce human rights in Nepal. Its work spans individual complaints, policy reform, education, and public accountability.

National Human Rights Commission NHRC Nepal

1) Investigation and Inquiry

What the NHRC does

Investigates alleged human rights violations—on its own or after receiving complaints.

Key actions

Receives and registers complaints from individuals or groups.
Initiates suo motu inquiries when needed.
Collects evidence, interviews witnesses, and conducts field visits.
Examines cases involving public officials and institutions.

2) Recommendations for Legal Action

What the NHRC does

Recommends legal or disciplinary steps when violations are found.

Key actions

Recommends prosecution of individuals or organizations responsible.
Advises departmental or disciplinary action against negligent officials.
Follows up on implementation of recommended actions.

3) Collaboration and Coordination

What the NHRC does

Works with civil society and institutions to strengthen human rights awareness and practice.

Key actions

Partners with NGOs, community groups, and academia.
Coordinates national and local awareness programs.
Shares information and good practices across sectors.

4) Legal and Policy Recommendations

What the NHRC does

Reviews laws and policies to align them with human rights standards.

Key actions

Audits existing legislation and identifies gaps.
Recommends amendments or new measures to the Government of Nepal.
Advises on practices for government and non-government bodies.

5) Human Rights Education and Awareness

What the NHRC does

Builds public understanding of rights and duties.

Key actions

Organizes seminars, workshops, and conferences.
Develops and distributes learning materials for schools and institutions.
Runs community outreach and awareness campaigns.

6) Monitoring and Reporting

What the NHRC does

Tracks the human rights situation and reports findings.

Key actions

Monitors trends, risks, and improvements nationwide.
Publishes annual and periodic reports to the government, parliament, and international bodies.
Issues thematic reports on priority concerns.

7) Implementation of International Treaties

What the NHRC does

Supports Nepal’s compliance with international human rights obligations.

Key actions

Advises on treaty implementation and follow-up.
Reviews periodic reports and shadow reports as relevant.
Monitors adherence to international standards.

8) Public Accountability

What the NHRC does

Promotes accountability when recommendations are ignored.

Key actions

Publishes names of officials or entities that fail to comply.
Records and reports instances of non-implementation.
Engages authorities to secure corrective action.

9) Complaint Handling and Redress

What the NHRC does

Provides a channel for victims to seek help and remedies.

Key actions

Accepts and processes complaints in an accessible manner.
Facilitates mediation where appropriate.
Recommends compensation or other remedies to support victims’ access to justice.

Conclusion

By investigating violations, advising on reforms, educating the public, and pressing for accountability, the NHRC helps protect victims, strengthen justice, and uphold national and international human rights standards.