PRESS STATEMENT
18 July 2024
The Nepal Forum for Restorative Justice (NFRJ) joins the global community today in commemorating Nelson Mandela International Day, honoring the legacy of an advocate for justice, human rights, and dignity for all.
On this day, we reflect on the profound impact of The United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners, also known as the Mandela Rules, which have a rich history spanning decades. In 1955, UN Member States adopted the original Standard Minimum Rule at the first UN Congress on Crime Prevention and Offender Treatment. These Rules serve as globally recognized standards for prison management and prisoner treatment for over 60 years, significantly influencing prison laws, policies, and practices worldwide.
In December 2015, the UN General Assembly unanimously adopted the revised Rules, naming them the “Mandela Rules” in honor of Nelson Mandela, who was imprisoned for 27 years during his fight for justice and human rights. And every year, 18 July is observed globally as “Nelson Mandela International Day” is celebrated to shine light on the legacy of Mandela.
Although the Nelson Mandela Rules are considered “soft law” and not legally binding, they represent universally agreed minimum standards adopted by the international community. Many UN Member States have incorporated these rules into their domestic laws or are in the process of doing so. Additionally, national judiciaries may use the rules as a secondary source when evaluating the constitutionality of prison practices.
As we celebrate Nelson Mandela’s enduring legacy, the NFRJ reaffirms its commitment to promoting restorative justice practices and promoting the rights and dignity of all individuals within the Nepalese justice system. We call upon policymakers, legal professionals, and civil society to continue working towards the full implementation of the Nelson Mandela Rules in Nepal.
Let’s honor Mandela’s memory by striving for a more just, humane, and restorative approach to justice in Nepal and beyond.