"Labour migration isn’t just about finding work — it’s also about protecting dignity and ensuring rights."

 Kathmandu, June 20 – Labour Minister Sharat Singh Bhandari highlighted the need to protect the dignity and rights of Nepali migrant workers at a policy dialogue on labour migration, gender, and climate change, held in Kathmandu. Speaking at the event, he stressed that labour migration isn’t just about jobs—it’s about human dignity, safety, and rights.

In his remarks, Minister Bhandari said the global labour market must respect human rights and responsible business practices. "We have zero tolerance for the exploitation and discrimination of Nepali workers abroad," he said, adding that both men and women from Nepal play a vital role in the development of countries they migrate to. He urged destination countries to follow the principles of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration.

The minister also said he has been engaging in diplomatic efforts to ensure fair and respectful treatment of Nepali workers. He pointed to the need for emergency evacuation plans, especially in conflict zones where Nepali workers are facing unsafe conditions. “Some are hiding in bomb shelters, unable to sleep. If things get worse, we need to be ready,” he said.

To better support migrant workers, the government is expanding the use of the Shram Sansar mobile app to track and assist Nepalis abroad. He noted that many legal migrant workers are still treated as undocumented, particularly in the Gulf countries, Malaysia, and parts of Europe. The ministry has started efforts to help legalise their status, especially focusing on female workers' safety.

He also called for an urgent revision of Nepal’s outdated Foreign Employment Act, emphasizing the need for fair, transparent, and modern reforms. “Old and unjust rules must go,” he said.

Minister Bhandari addressed the challenges faced by domestic workers, especially housemaids working in the Gulf. “Thousands of Nepali women are in vulnerable jobs. Whether or not they are documented, we will bring them into our protection system,” he assured.

He acknowledged the economic impact of labour migration, especially through remittances, which remain a backbone of Nepal’s economy. However, he expressed concern about the declining productivity of Nepal’s domestic labour market. “We need bold steps to boost our economy,” he said, pointing to examples like South Korea’s development in the 1960s, Bangladesh’s garment industry success, and India’s strategies to bring migrant workers back home.

In summary, Minister Bhandari stressed that the government’s approach to labour migration will be based on ethics, rights, and a comprehensive support system for all Nepali workers abroad.

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