By Kristy Tridhavee
Impunity Watch Senior Desk Officer, Asia

KATHMUNDU, Nepal – The United Nations Children Fund [UNICEF] and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights [OHCHR] in Nepal have expressed deep concern for children taking part in the increasing violent protests.

Currently, there have been ethnic protests in Southern Nepal, which have cut off fuel from the capital. The United Democratic Mahadesi Front [UDMF] have called for a general strike until ethnic Mahadesis from the impoverished Terari region have more of a say in the country’s governance. The UDMF have stopped fuel shipments to the capital by blocking the main road.

UNICEF and OHCHR both have confirmed reports that children are taking part in the violent protests and strikes. In Neplgunj, children from the ages of 7 to 15 were seen carrying sticks and supporting a general strike. In Duhabi, numerous children were seen carrying sticks while guarding a roadblock. Additionally, the agencies report that thousands of children in Terari have stopped attending school since the general strike began.

In light of the fact that protests have gotten increasingly violent, the agencies both urge that adults respect the rights of children and do their part to avoid children from participating. Thus far, two protestors have been killed, and numerous have been injured. Among those that are injured, there are reports that a fourteen year old boy was injured by a bullet.

In a statement from the agencies, they wrote, “People under eighteen must not be forced, coerced or bribed into participating in political activities. Any participation must be voluntary, with consideration given as to whether they fully understand the implications of their participation. Children should not be armed under any circumstances.” The agencies also reminded all concerning parties that Section 23 of the Election Code of Conduct of 2007 states that no children should be brought to participate in any kind of procession, mass meeting or rally, or in any election-related publicity activity.

Negotiations have begun between the government and the UDMF to end the protests and general strike. The Nepalese government stated that it was hopeful that negotiations can bring an end to the ethnic protests and help the parties reach an understanding.

For more information, please see:

AFP – Nepal Government Hopeful to End Ethnic Unrest – 22 February 2008

Chinaview – UN Bodies Express Concern Over Use of Children in Protests in S.Nepal – 22 February 2008

The Hindu News – UN Concerned Over Use of Children in Protests in Nepal – 23 February 2008