खबरमाला संवाददाता Khabarmala
The documentation of migration began only after modern states started becoming institutionalized. However, it is migration itself that has enabled the development of human civilization. In ancient times, human beings migrated to ensure survival, but today, people migrate to enhance their economic and cognitive abilities. Data from the Department of Foreign Employment reveals that Nepalese have migrated to 173 countries, excluding India, for employment, highlighting the significance of the migration issue for Nepal.
According to the department’s data, from January 1, 2014, to July 16, 2024, a total of 6,098,080 Nepali workers migrated to these countries. Among them, 5,681,627 are men, while 416,453 are women. The number of people going abroad through unofficial channels is also increasing. The 2021 National Census shows that 23.4% of households have at least one family member engaged in foreign employment.
Therefore, migration should not only be seen as a compulsion but also as an opportunity since both “push” and “pull” factors are always present in this context. Whether it is compulsion or opportunity, the presence of human values becomes essential.
Consequently, the fundamental facilities and rights of those who stay in their homeland and those who migrate temporarily or permanently are becoming key issues of international discourse. The approach taken by states—whether lenient or restrictive—depends on the character and leadership of the government. As a result, migration has become a decisive political issue in countries like the United States, Australia, and European nations.
The issue of migration is also influenced by a country’s economic situation. Countries like Nepal, which send workers abroad for employment and students for higher studies, often rely on the policies of other nations rather than formulating their own.
Migrant workers and their families have both common and unique issues. State bodies must stay up-to-date, aware, and serious about addressing these issues. There is a pressing need for an internal review of the circumstances that compel such a large number of Nepalis to migrate for labor. At the same time, the human rights and welfare of workers abroad must be a priority.
The slow growth of Nepal’s economic, commercial, and industrial environment has led to a situation where people cannot find employment, or even if they do, it does not match their skills or provide a reliable income. This has made seeking employment abroad seem like a natural process. Similarly, the pursuit of higher education has driven many Nepalis to different countries. While Gulf countries and Malaysia have been major destinations, the presence of Nepalis in the United States and European countries is also gradually increasing.
In the past 15 years alone, the number of Nepalis in the U.S. has increased by 60%, according to a study by the “Institute for Integrated Development Studies (IIDS).” This shift indicates a change in the type of countries Nepalis migrate to and the nature of the labor they undertake. They are now moving towards skilled professions and higher-income opportunities.
This shift boosts the confidence of migrant workers and contributes to the economic development of their families. The state should facilitate this process. Nepal must play its part in safeguarding the rights and dignity of Nepalis working abroad. Diplomatic relations, agreements, and alliances with the concerned countries are essential to ensure these rights.
In Nepal, there is a tendency to view or understand migrant workers only as contributors to remittances. News about record-breaking remittance inflows is met with celebration. However, there is now a need for broader thinking. It is essential to develop a system that keeps skilled human resources engaged with Nepal, even while they are abroad, so that the country can benefit from the expertise, business acumen, and research capacity of those working, studying, or undertaking ventures abroad.
Nepal is failing to tap into the benefits of this vast network of talent. This is true not only for those still abroad but also for those who return home. There has been a lot of debate but no solid policy to capitalize on their skills and financial capabilities. As a result, a cycle of foreign labor migration is forming, where workers move from one country to another. Despite lofty promises made in public speeches, state policies and initiatives have failed to reflect genuine action on this issue.
There has been much talk about bringing back Nepalis who are living abroad. However, the real approach should be to create an environment for education, employment, enterprise, and business within Nepal. Once such a foundation is built, the choice to return is up to the individual. By focusing on speeches about “bringing youth back” without actually improving the domestic environment, the state risks fostering frustration.
If Nepal creates opportunities at home, most Nepalis will stay. For those who are already abroad, their skills and reputations can be utilized to strengthen Nepal’s ties with other countries, facilitating the transfer of knowledge, technology, and investment. The relationship between a country and its citizens is not based solely on direct exchanges of benefits. To strengthen this bond, an institutional system is essential.
