Between 14 and 17 January 2008, the International Press Institute (IPI), the global network of editors, media executives and leading journalists, joined the fourth International Press Freedom and Freedom of Expression Mission to Nepal, together with 11 other international organisations, including UN agencies, global media associations, freedom of expression advocates and media development organisations.

With the Nepalese Constituent Assembly Elections scheduled for April, the International Mission raised serious concerns about press freedom violations taking place throughout the country, particularly as impartial and independent media coverage will be essential for holding free and fair elections and promoting the democratic process.

Members of the International Mission spoke with government ministers, political party leaders, community leaders and the security forces about the importance of the elections proceeding as scheduled and supporting an independent and unobstructed media to ensure a free and fair vote.

Strongly condemning the continued harassment of journalists, media workers and media institutions in Nepal and the growing culture of impunity, the International Mission also reminded the national and local media of the importance to provide independent and impartial coverage of the elections, abiding by professional standards in accordance with international principles.

The International Mission also stressed the need for strong constitutional protection of freedom of expression and press freedom, as well as reform of the broadcast law and transformation of the state media into public service media.

IPI placed Nepal on its Watch List in May 2005, following King Gyanendra’s imposition of heavy restrictions on press freedom under the state of emergency. In November 2007, IPI stated that although Nepal “has seen a positive improvement, […] IPI continues to watch the situation closely because there are still press freedom violations occurring in the country, which threaten the democratization process.”

Representatives of IPI have travelled to Nepal in July 2005 and March 2006 as part of previous International Missions.