In early 2006, PBI launched its newest project, an initiative to protect human rights defenders in Nepal.

Nepal's civil war, a conflict between Royal Nepali Army (RNA) and the Communist Party of Nepal (the "Maoists"), resulted in numerous cases of torture and detention and the forced disappearance of thousands of civilians.

From 1996 to the time of the ceasefire in 2006, Nepal had one of the highest rates of forced disappearances in the world. Both sides stand accused of abuses, while not a single perpetrator has yet been held to account.

While a Comprehensive Peace Agreement signed on November 21, 2006 by the Maoists and the Prime Minister has provided an opportunity for dialogue, both the situation in the country and the security of those promoting the respect of human rights remain uncertain.

Visit the Nepal Project's website