Labour migration plays a crucial role in socio-economic development in Nepal, with over 2.1 million Nepalese working abroad. However, migrant workers often face risks such as labour exploitation, forced labour, human trafficking and other forms of human rights violations. To address these challenges, Nepal launched its National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights (2024-2028), outlining the responsibilities of the Government and businesses to uphold human rights, including those of migrant workers.
In this context, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), International Labour Organization (ILO), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Nepalese Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security (MoLESS) hosted the "National Policy Dialogue on Strengthening Labour Migration Governance: Integrating Business and Human Rights Perspectives for the Protection of Migrant Workers" on 7 August. The dialogue brought together various stakeholders, including government representatives, donor communities, development partners, international organizations, trade unions, the private sector, civil society organizations and migrant worker networks.
The National Policy Dialogue aimed to address pressing challenges in labour migration governance by fostering partnerships for ethical recruitment and recommending policy adjustments under the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, which included protecting, respecting and remedying the rights of migrant workers. Moreover, it aimed to enhance the understanding of the National Action Plan (NAP).
Hon. Sharat Singh Bhandari, Minister of Labour, Employment and Social Security, emphasized prioritizing and promoting the interests of Nepali migrant workers. He called for equal treatment of migrant workers and pre-departure capacity-building programmes, which would enable the workers to smoothly transition to their new jobs in the destination countries. The Government of Nepal is committed to protecting the rights of migrant workers through existing bilateral agreements and MOUs with partner countries, and by establishing new cooperation with more countries.
IOM, ILO and UNDP highlighted that remittances are central to Nepal's economic growth and the quality of life for thousands of households. The agencies remain committed to supporting the Nepalese Government's efforts in implementing the NAP and safeguarding Nepalese migrant rights in the supply chains.
The donor communities commended Nepal for launching the NAP and reiterated that safeguarding migrant workers' rights is a collective responsibility. Through collaboration and commitment, a supportive environment for all migrant workers and their communities can be created.
The National Policy Dialogue underscored the importance of multi-stakeholder engagement in addressing the complexities of labour migration governance. By fostering dialogue and collaboration, the event aimed to create a framework that aligns with international standards and best practices, ensuring effective and responsive policies for the protection of migrant workers.
This event was funded by the European Union, the Government of Sweden, the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation and the Government of Japan.
