Integrated or isolated? How state and non-state justice systems work for justice in Nepal

This report examines the relationship between state and non-state justice mechanisms in Nepal, to identify opportunities for strengthening coordination between state and non-state justice providers, with the aim of improving access to justice.

The context of this research is the transition from conflict to peace in Nepal, and the associated urgent need for the state to be seen to enforce rule of law and ensure access to justice for all.

The intended audience is state security and justice providers, and those involved in supporting non-state justice mechanisms such as paralegal committees and community mediation programmes. Research was undertaken in Banke, Jumla, Kailali, Mahottari, Panchthar and Sunsari districts from June to August 2011.