EMERGENCY RESOLUTION #2: IN SOLIDARITY WITH PSI AFFILIATES AND THE PEOPLE OF NEPAL

The 15th PSI Asia Pacific Regional Conference (APRECON) meeting in Kathmandu, Nepal 8 to 11 September 2025
STANDS IN SOLIDARITY with the workers, citizens, and trade unions of Nepal as they face an increasingly difficult and volatile political situation.

STRONGLY CONDEMNS recent attacks on protestors and the unacceptable death of at least 24 protestors and hundreds of injuries who joined protests of young activists exercising their democratic right to protest in search of more equitable opportunities for young workers;

ALSO CONDEMNS attacks on trade union buildings, individuals, public goods, judicial institutions, and other democratic institutions that are fundamental to Nepal’s democratic fabric. These acts of violence and intimidation are a direct affront to the rights of workers, the principles of justice, and the rule of law.

REASSERTS, that rights to freedom of speech, freedom of association, including the right to protest are fundamental, universal rights . The right to freedom of speech through acts of protest is an integral part of democracy.  When these rights are enacted, they should never be met by the use of lethal force.

ALSO REASSERTS that trade union rights are fundamental rights, essential for a healthy democracy and a pathway to a more equitable, prosperous and sustainable society;

Notes that journalists were amongst those injured.  Further notes that the offices of major, reputable newspapers were attacked by protestors. The right to access free and independent media should not be jeopardised, and the safety of journalists as workers must be ensured.

Recalling that on the 8th September, PSI young worker representatives from unions across the region meet in Nepal and spoke of the need for young workers’ voices to be heard by those in power. 

CALL on all parties to refrain from violence, de-escalate the situation and engage in peaceful dialogue to chart a path forward, to establish an independent and transparent process to investigate deaths and allegations of excessive force and any other alleged violations of human rights and make the fundings public

FURTHER CALL on all parties to recognise trade union rights as a fundamental right that must not be diluted and engage trade unions in the process of restoring democracy and commit to charting a democratic path that improves the lives of workers and communities in Nepal.

Resolves to support affiliates in Nepal in their struggles to advance the rights of workers, increase access to quality public services and secure a peaceful, democratic state.

Submitted by: Union of Public Services Nepal