The International Democracy Union (IDU) is closely monitoring the current monarchist public demonstrations in Nepal and calls on the country’s government to allow its citizens to fully exercise their democratic rights of freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.
We recognize that peaceful protest is a cornerstone of every democratic society, and we condemn the Nepalese government’s arrest of numerous monarchist leaders, many of whom are members of the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP), the Nepalese IDU member-party. We call for the immediate, unconditional release of all citizens unlawfully arrested for peacefully voicing their political views.
We urge all stakeholders—government authorities, political leaders, civil society, and citizens—to engage in constructive and respectful dialogue regarding the proposed reinstatement of the constitutional monarchy and the combating of systemic corruption in the country. It is imperative that any decision is made through a democratic process and that, in any scenario, the rights and freedoms of all citizens, irrespective of religion or political views, are respected under the rule of law.
We also call on the Nepalese authorities to uphold and protect the fundamental rights of all individuals and to refrain from the use of force or intimidation. As long as protesters respect the country’s law and forgo the use of violence, they deserve to express their grievances in a secure environment.
The IDU remains committed to supporting democracy, human rights, and the rule of law in Nepal and around the world. We strongly condemn all forms of political violence and encourage a peaceful and inclusive resolution that strengthens Nepal’s democratic institutions, restores the people’s trust in their government, and ensures a stable, prosperous future for all.