Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba has urged the international community to support Nepal’s candidacy for membership in the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2027-2029 term.

She said this addressing a reception for representatives of several foreign missions and international organisations hosted by Nepal’s permanent mission in Geneva on Wednesday evening.

Deuba is in Geneva to participate in the 58th High-Level Session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva.

Minister Deuba emphasised the significant progress Nepal has made in promoting and protecting human rights, according to a press note issued by her secretariat.

She highlighted the country’s achievements in various sectors, particularly in safeguarding the rights of women, children, and minorities and promoting inclusivity.

“Nepal has been steadfast in its dedication to peace, democracy, and human rights. We have worked tirelessly to protect and promote human rights, and with that commitment, we are standing as a candidate for the UN Human Rights Council for the 2027-2029 term,” Minister Deuba said in her speech.

She also noted that Nepal’s constitution guarantees fundamental rights, including political, economic, and social freedoms, as well as the protection of the judiciary and the rule of law.

The minister further highlighted Nepal’s role in the peace process, stating that the country remains committed to completing the remaining tasks in transitional justice swiftly. She also reiterated Nepal’s continued support for the independence of the National Human Rights Commission.

Minister Deuba, who is leading a six-member Nepali delegation to the ongoing UN Human Rights Council session, also briefed attendees about Nepal’s recent advancements in human rights and its efforts to strengthen democracy and rule of law. She was joined by representatives from various government bodies, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Nepal’s Permanent Mission to the UN.

Deuba arrived in Geneva on Saturday and is scheduled to return to Nepal on Friday.