Kathmandu: Stakeholders have emphasized the importance of local government initiatives in reducing the financial burden on workers seeking foreign employment, which is crucial for ensuring safe migration. At a program organized by the National Network for Safe Migration to mark International Migrants Day, participants expressed that both families and the country could reap significant benefits if workers could pursue foreign employment with minimal financial investment.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Dr. Jeevan Baniya presented a working paper at the event. He highlighted that migrant workers are currently spending anywhere from Rs 100 thousand to Rs 9 million for overseas employment, urging the government to focus on reducing these expenses. He pointed out that while there is a governmental provision for free visa and free ticket arrangements for foreign employment, it has yet to be effectively implemented. Dr. Baniya noted that approximately 80 percent of Nepalis are forced to seek employment abroad, incurring high costs.
National Coordinator of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), Roni Pradhan Dhaubhadel, emphasized the necessity for the complete implementation of government policies and laws to ensure foreign employment is safe, dignified, and systematic.
Additionally, Samjhana Chaudhary, Deputy-Mayor of Ramgram municipality in Nawalparasi, advocated for the creation and execution of a special action plan at the local level to secure safe foreign employment opportunities.
Network Chairperson Advocate Krishna Prasad Neupane stated that the government should focus on protecting the investments of Nepali migrant workers and securing their future, rather than merely seeing them as a source of remittance.
Satra Gurung, Chairperson of Paurakhi Nepal, recommended that policies on safe migration should be developed with a heightened sensitivity towards issues faced by female workers.