Founded in 2015, PDS-Nepal is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring fair and effective access to justice for marginalized and vulnerable communities in Nepal. Officially operational since 2017, it emerged from a pioneering project by the International Legal Foundation (ILF) that focused on establishing the right to counsel for indigent defendants. PDS-Nepal remains the country’s sole public defender organization, working tirelessly to address the legal needs of underprivileged individuals.
The organization provides free legal aid and representation from arrest through trial and appeals. Its advocates are known for their expertise in defending the rights of accused persons while promoting constitutional guarantees such as the right to counsel and early access to legal representation. PDS-Nepal also conducts capacity-building initiatives for justice sector actors, including legal aid lawyers, police, and prosecutors, to enhance the quality and accessibility of criminal defense services.
PDS-Nepal actively engages in strategic litigation, policy advocacy, and public awareness campaigns to promote the rule of law and citizen participation. The organization collaborates with stakeholders like the Nepal Bar Association and courts to develop performance standards and improve Nepal’s legal aid system. Through its initiatives, PDS-Nepal strives to foster a sustainable and inclusive justice system in the country.