This week sees the launch of the United Nations’ first arms monitoring operation in Nepal. This is in response to the UN’s ongoing support of the peace process between the Maoists and the interim government, which is currently made up of seven national parties. This action follows on from the peace agreement signed in November, after the mass uprising resulting in King Gyanendra’s relinquishing direct rule last April. He originally seized power in 2005 after sacking his government. This historic agreement marked the end of ten years of fighting in Nepal, in which over 14,000 Nepalese have been killed.

The first group of UN arms monitors are already in the country, with more expected to arrive over the next few days. A Joint Monitoring Coordination Committee (JMCC) has been set up with representatives from the Maoists, Nepalese Army and the UN. The committee has organised the placement of UN containers for the storage of Maoist weapons. An Interim Task Force (ITF) composed of Nepalese ex-servicemen from the Indian and British armies will ensure the containers have 24-hour surveillance.

Despite these positive steps there have been recent clashes between rival groups in the city of Nepalganj. Both government and Maoist leaders have travelled to the city in an attempt to curb the violence. Please pray that they will succeed in ending the fighting and that the peace process won’t be put at risk.

Pray that a just and democratic government can be established for Nepal. Please pray too for the millions of people who have been forced from their homes and displaced during Nepal’s troubles.