State and non-state justice systems in Nepal: A review of existing relevant laws and policies from a civil society perspective

This review looks at existing justice policies and processes governing the justice sector in Nepal, including the way that key informal mechanisms work.

The paper forms part of an ongoing initiative which seeks to strengthen access to justice by strengthening links and coordination between Nepali state and non-state justice actors. The report does not seek to recommend but rather provide an analysis and insight into current justice policy directions and dynamics.

Key points of analysis show that:

  • there is limited but increasing state recognition of non-state justice mechanisms
  • there is an absence of systemic guidance for informal justice methods and bodies despite their being increasingly recognised by the state
  • if supported, gender justice interventions could be used to learn lessons for new integrated justice models
  • promising opportunities exist for strengthening harmonisation between state and non-state systems in Nepal