Kathmandu: United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has stated that the issue of transitional justice is sensitive and complex and that Nepal is not alone in facing it.

During his official visit to Nepal, Guterres addressed a joint session of the federal parliament on Tuesday, stressing the significant role that transitional justice can play in establishing lasting peace.

“Transitional justice can play a crucial role in establishing lasting peace. However, this is not an easy task. It is, by nature, a delicate and intricate process,” stated Guterres during his address.

Additionally, he mentioned that with successful transitional justice, it is possible to provide meaningful resolutions to all victims of human rights violations.

“Do we know what it takes to succeed in transitional justice? The best chance is when it’s comprehensive and broad, with the victims at its core. When it focuses on the truth, reparations, and justice. It is not complete unless women are fully engaged,” he stated during his parliamentary address. “Furthermore, when all victims of human rights violations can find meaningful solutions. I welcome Nepal’s efforts to progress and find solutions. You are not alone.”

Guterres also highlighted the remarkable journey of Nepal over the past three decades and commended the country’s new republic with its new constitution, among other significant milestones.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, currently on a four-day visit to Nepal, is scheduled to address a joint session of the Federal Parliament on Tuesday.

Guterres is expected to address critical issues such as climate change, the peace process, and the current political situation in Nepal during his speech to the House. Expressing concerns about the rapidly changing climate in Nepal, the UN Secretary-General said on Sunday that the country’s glaciers were melting at an alarming rate and the situation was both “dire and accelerating”.

On Monday, Guterres called for ending the “madness” that is adversely affecting the glaciers. He stated: “Today from the base of Mt. Everest, I saw for myself the terrible impact of the climate crisis on the Himalayas. As temperatures rise, glacier melt increases – threatening the lives and livelihoods of entire communities. Climate action can’t wait. “

During his visit, Guterres has been engaging with Nepal’s top political leaders, with discussions centering on finalizing Nepal’s transitional justice process, addressing the climate crisis, and the Himalayan country’s role in United Nations peacekeeping efforts.