Nepal Business Human Rights: National Action Plan & Ethical Growth
27th May 2025, Kathmandu
Business leaders, government officials, and development partners have jointly emphasized the importance of aligning business operations with human rights.
Nepal Business Human Rights
The message was delivered during an interaction program organized by the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI). The event was supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC).
The program focused on how businesses in Nepal can respect and promote human rights. Stakeholders from different sectors shared ideas on the roles they must play.
National Action Plan On Business And Human Rights
Nepal introduced the National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights last year. The plan aims to guide businesses in promoting and protecting human rights.
The action plan includes key areas such as labor rights, women’s and children’s rights, consumer rights, and protection against discrimination. It encourages companies to follow ethical practices and reduce harm to society.
Speakers said that the success of this plan depends on coordination among all parties. Businesses, government agencies, civil society, and development partners must work together.
Government’s Perspective
Dr. Krishnahari Pushkar, Secretary at the Ministry of Labor, Employment, and Social Security, spoke during the event. He clarified that the action plan is not a new law. Instead, it helps enforce existing human rights policies and regulations.
He stated, “The protection of human rights is a core duty of the state. But the role of other stakeholders is equally important.”
Dr. Pushkar also noted that the influence of the private sector is growing. As the economy develops, businesses must also take responsibility for their impact. According to him, effective implementation is only possible if all actors are fully engaged.
FNCCI’s Commitment
FNCCI Vice President Surya Krishna Vaidya stressed that businesses need to become more aware of their responsibilities. He said companies can benefit by recognizing the human rights risks linked to their activities.
“Understanding these risks can help avoid problems in the future,” he said.
He added that when businesses include human rights in their management systems, it strengthens corporate governance. It also creates new opportunities. Vaidya promised that FNCCI will continue to support the implementation of the national plan.
FNCCI has already conducted similar awareness programs in all seven provinces. These events help businesses and local stakeholders understand their roles.
Development Partner’s Views
Tek Tamata, Portfolio Manager at UNDP, highlighted the need for a shared approach. He called business and human rights a “multi-stakeholder issue.” According to him, all sides—government, private sector, and development agencies—must work together.
He pointed out that Nepal is entering the global market. As it does, human rights standards will become even more important. International markets are paying more attention to how businesses respect rights and treat people.
“If Nepal’s businesses want to grow internationally, they need to follow these standards,” Tamata said.
He also mentioned that development partners like UNDP will continue to support the national action plan.
A Growing Need For Ethical Business
The conversation around business and human rights is growing in Nepal. Experts believe the private sector has a bigger role to play now. Economic activities affect workers, communities, and the environment. Therefore, businesses must make ethical decisions.
Nepal is also a signatory to several international human rights treaties. These agreements guide how businesses should behave. Aligning local business practices with global standards is both a responsibility and an opportunity.
Importance Of Coordination
Speakers at the event agreed that cooperation is key. Government agencies must create a favorable policy environment. Employers must respect rights in their daily operations. Trade unions must advocate for workers. Development partners must provide technical support.
All of these roles are interconnected. Without coordination, progress will be slow. With joint efforts, Nepal can become a model for responsible business practices.
FNCCI’s Role As Employer Representative
FNCCI plays a leading role in representing Nepal’s business community. It works closely with the government and trade unions on labor-related issues.
The organization has been a key player in promoting tripartite dialogue. This means engaging employers, employees, and the state in solving workplace issues.
In recent years, FNCCI has worked on improving workplace conditions, promoting decent work, and respecting labor rights.
Looking Ahead
The Kathmandu event ended with a clear message: respecting human rights is not just the duty of the government. It is a shared responsibility.
Businesses that invest in human rights practices can reduce risks, attract global partnerships, and gain public trust. Development partners will continue to play a supportive role in this journey.
Stakeholders committed to working together in the days ahead. Their goal is to ensure that economic growth in Nepal is both inclusive and ethical.
For more: Nepal Business Human Rights
