National Human Rights Commission Seeks Financial Autonomy, Wants to Receive Foreign Aid Directly
The National Human Rights Commission of Nepal has formally requested financial autonomy, seeking the ability to receive foreign aid directly without needing prior approval from the Ministry of Finance. A commission member, Manoj Duwadi, highlighted the significant delays faced by the organization, citing an instance where it took a full year to secure approval to receive 700,000 Euros in assistance. Duwadi expressed dissatisfaction with the current operational framework, stating that the commission is being treated like a non-governmental organization (NGO). He emphasized the need for amendments to existing laws to rectify this situation and improve the commission's functioning. The current provision requiring the Ministry of Finance's consent for accepting foreign aid is seen as a major impediment to the commission's efficiency and independence.
The National Human Rights Commission's request for financial autonomy underscores a common tension between state oversight and the operational independence of rights-monitoring bodies. Requiring explicit financial approval from the Ministry of Finance, as currently mandated, can create bureaucratic hurdles and potentially compromise the commission's ability to act swiftly and impartially, especially when dealing with sensitive human rights issues or time-bound foreign assistance. This situation raises questions about the effectiveness of governance structures designed to support independent institutions. Ensuring that such commissions have the necessary resources and freedom to operate without undue influence is crucial for upholding human rights standards, both domestically and in the context of international cooperation. The commission's comparison to an NGO suggests a perceived lack of institutional respect or parity within the governmental framework.
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