Netherlands to fund ‘rule of law’ in KP

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The Government of Netherlands and United Nations Development Program (UNDP) signed an agreement on Tuesday regarding Netherlands’ contribution of US $ 2 million in support of the “Strengthening Rule of Law” Program in the Malakand Division of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP).
The first preparatory phase was financed by UNDP. For the second phase the Government of Netherlands had allocated a budget of US $ 2 million.
The program was designed in close consultation with the Government of KPK and other stakeholders. It would address various critical issues in the justice sector by providing technical and infrastructural support. The objectives of the program were (a) improved access to justice and legal aid (b) improved informal justice mechanisms (c) strengthened functioning of the judiciary and (d) improved criminal investigation and prosecution. The program would geographically focus on seven districts of the Malakand Division including Swat, Malakand, Lower Dir, Upper Dir, Buner, Shangla and Chitral.
The signing of the agreement was attended by Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, H.G. Scheltema and the Country Director UNDP, Jean-Luc Stalon. The occasion was held at the KPK House and was hosted by KPK government.
Speaking on the occasion, KPK Inspector General Police (IGP), Akbar Khan Hoti, appreciated the support extended by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to promoting rule of law, peace and security in the Malakand region. He emphasized the need of efforts for improved court functioning, easy access to justice and legal aid to the needy people, encouraging alternate dispute resolution and effective prosecution and investigation of criminal cases. Khan urged on expansion of rule of law program to other parts of the province where similar circumstances prevailed.
Ambassador Scheltema explained that enhancing peace, security and stability was one of the key pillars of the Dutch foreign policy, thus creating an environment conducive for development and economic growth. He added that the Government of Netherlands was confident that this program would make a positive difference in strengthening the rule of law because of the strong commitment of the KPK government and the other stakeholders.
Jean-Luc Stalon thanked the Embassy of the Netherlands for its generous support and assured that the program would be implemented with great care and planning. He said the ownership demonstrated by partners in KPK and the local government was commendable. He emphasized that UNDP would introduce a robust and independent monitoring system of progress and results. This would also strengthen financial transparency and accountability, he added.

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