LALITPUR: Minister for Labor, Employment and Social Security Sharat Singh Bhandari has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a zero-tolerance policy toward exploitation and discrimination of Nepali workers.
Speaking at a multi-stakeholder policy dialogue on labor migration, gender equality, and climate change organized by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Nepal in Lalitpur, Minister Bhandari stated that the government is intensifying efforts to support Nepali workers abroad.
He emphasized that protecting workers’ human rights alongside promoting responsible trade is a top government priority, recognizing the link between trade, migration, and human rights.
“Foreign employment is not just a source of income but a matter of dignity and rights,” he said. “Nepali men and women are significantly contributing to the development of destination countries, and those nations must act in line with global values to ensure safe, systematic, and regular labor migration.”
The Minister also noted that preparations are underway for the emergency rescue of Nepali citizens in conflict-affected regions.
“Many Nepalis are spending nights in bunkers. If the situation worsens, the government stands ready to rescue them,” he added.
Minister Bhandari acknowledged the support of partners like Swiss Compact and said efforts are being made to further enhance the ‘Shram Sansar” mobile application to better monitor and assist Nepalis abroad.
He stressed that the government is prioritizing the protection of female workers and is working to legalize undocumented Nepali migrants in various countries.
He shared that the process of amending the Foreign Employment Act has begun to address outdated and impractical provisions. The government has also launched a decade-long campaign to promote domestic employment, aiming to make foreign employment a choice rather than a necessity.
The Minister highlighted ongoing progress toward ratifying International Labour Organization (ILO) Conventions 81 and 87 and underscored the need for inclusive economic growth as Nepal prepares to graduate from Least Developed Country (LDC) status.
He concluded by calling for collective efforts among all stakeholders, emphasizing that safe, dignified, and regular labor migration is only possible through cooperation, transparency, formalization of the labor market, and the use of digital technology.
Comment