Abstract:
This thesis examines the history and intricacies of Transitional Justice (TJ) and how it has been utilized in the case of Nepal. Since the TJ process does not exist in a historical and socio-political vacuum, I also cursorily review facets as they pertain to the TJ process in Nepal. The rallying cry among victims and families of civil war victims has been for inclusivity in the TJ process and its implementation, holding offenders accountable, and appropriate restitution and reconciliation opportunities. This thesis evaluates the current TJ mechanisms implemented in Nepal and analyzes their efficacy in fulfilling the needs of the victims. The TJ process, even before any implementation and definitely during the consulting period, should be more victim-centric; this allows for the goals of TJ to be met at an immediate individual level, which in turn could lead to an onset of a larger positive socio-political transformation. I also argue that the utilization of Restorative Justice (RJ) principles using Participatory Methodologies will contribute towards ensuring both TJ processes and frameworks focus on the victims’ needs.
