Why Cif ?
CIF was established in 2000 AD. CIF was established at a time when human rights situation was vulnerable in Nepal due to the internal armed conflict. Violations of human rights massively during the war demanded the strong intervention of civil society organizations to contribute to peacebuilding process in the country.
The signing of the Comprehensive Peace Accord (CPA) in 2006 ended 10 year long internal armed conflict in Nepal. Following this, the election to the constituent assembly was held successfully in 2008. Currently, the country is heading towards constitution making process through the elected body of Constituent Assembly. Now, discussion and debate on the issue of restructuring of the state to ensure justifiable participation of diverse groups of the country have started.
In spite of these major achievements, sustainable peace has not been achieved in Nepal. A number of armed groups have emerged in Terai and eastern hills. As a result, abductions, beating, and forced donations are continuing even after the CPA. Entire Terai and eastern hills of Nepal have recently been affected by strikes, abductions and closures because of different opposition groups. Terai movement, almost daily strikes and transport strikes including other incidents completely affected the education institutions. These kinds of activities have posed serious threat to asserting the rights of people in Nepal.
Active involvement of strong and capable civil society organizations can play a crucial role for supporting peace process as well as promoting and protecting human rights in the transitional phase of the country. In this regard, CIF endeavors to contribute to lasting peace, justice and promotion and protection of human rights by involving civil society members, professional groups, media, women groups, academicians, trade union, business communities and political forces.