Two anonymous Nepalese organisations vs. Visa Facilitation Services (VFS) Global

Date filed

25 August 2024

Keywords

Countries of harm

Nepal

Current status

Filed

Sector

Other

NCP

NCP Switzerland

Allegations

On 25 August 2024, two anonymous Nepalese organisations filed a complaint against Visa Facilitation Services (VFS) Global with the Swiss NCP. The complaint concerns the activities of VFS Global in Kathmandu, Nepal, related to its involvement with the Chhaya Center business complex.

VFS Global is the world’s largest visa outsourcing and technology services specialist for governments and diplomatic missions worldwide. Its operations in Kathmandu are based in Thamel, specifically within the premises of the Chhaya Center, a large business complex. VFS Global occupies a significant area in the Center, which the complainants say makes it an important source of revenue for the complex. According to the complainants, the Center’s construction has been associated with human rights violations against the indigenous Newar community, particularly the local Pradhan Newars of Thamel, as it was built on land connected to communal Guthi (trust) lands, which are traditionally owned by the Pradhans and used for religious and cultural purposes. Legal disputes and protests have arisen over the legitimacy of this land’s conversion to private ownership, with ongoing court cases since 2014. Activists associated with the complainants have also faced threats and harassment due to their opposition to the Center’s construction.

The complainants are seeking mediation so that: (1) VFS Global acknowledges its link to human rights abuses against the Pradhan Newar community through its association with the Complex; (2) VFS Global uses its influence to change harmful practices at the Complex, ensure respect for international human rights standards, and consult with the affected community; and (3) the company protects those who might be facing potential concerns retaliation.