Nepal is in desperate need of a democratic and just peace. This solution must come from within the country. Nepal needs a “third party” of democratic forces able to handle the conflict, facilitate a peace process and establish a stable democratic society. These forces at the centre of the political spectrum may be able to overcome the present political polarisation, the constitutional impasse as well as the military stalemate. These actors needs and appreciate the non-interventionist and non-partisan support of long-standing international friends.

Component 3 will contribute to this end in specific ways:

• Observe and analyse the dynamics in Nepal without any partisanship 
• Make explicit and transparent the third parties’ own democratic values and goals 
• Support all democratic and legitimate forces in the country striving for improved governance, social inclusion and peace
• Play a realistic and inclusive facilitating and enabling role for all political forces that prepare the ground for dialogue and negotiations
• Help to build up capacities and alliances for peace at all levels of society 
• Provide international recognition to the parties to the conflict, if the latter engage in dialogue and negotiation

Trust and confidence building are of paramount importance. A rapid solution to the political and social conflicts will not be possible. Only a long-term commitment and a well designed process will finally lead to sustainable peace in a democratic developing country.

Projects at a glance

• Good Governance Project (GGP), Phase 3
• Decentralisation for Inclusion and Peace Building, Phase 2
• Prevention of Torture
• SDC Contribution to Rights, Democracy and Inclusion Fund (RDIF)
• Support to Peace Process in Nepal - Nepal Peace Trust Fund (NPTF)
• Human Rights Monitoring (OHCHR)
• Coof Small Actions, Phase 7